Kyoto, Japan

Sep 28, 2016

Most amazing place I have seen so far: Fushimi Inari shrine, just south of Kyoto. 10,000 vermillion torii gates leads to the top of Mt. Inari . We made it to the top of the highest viewpoint before darkness hit. Will post other pics.

Kyoto, Japan

Sep 28, 2016

Full day of sites today, starting with Nijo Castle, built in 1603 for the Shogun to protect the imperial palace, when Kyoto was the capital of Japan.

Nara, Japan

Sep 28, 2016

Tame deer roam all over Nara, particularly around the temples and shrines in the main park. They come right up to you in hopes you have deer crackers, which vendors sell to tourists in bulk throughout the park. After awhile it seems normal to be seeing one walking toward you on the sidewalk like they are traveling to an appointment.

Nara, Japan

Sep 28, 2016

Took the train south of Kyoto this morning and explored Nara, the old capital of Japan before the 8th Century. Most remarkable site was the Great Buddha at Todai-Jo Temple, a 50-foot bronze sculpture (biggest pf its kind) housed in what was once the largest wooden structure in the world.

Kyoto, Japan

Sep 27, 2016

A geisha in the Gion district of Kyoto. We went on a 90 minute walking tour of the area where the book/movie Memoirs of a Geisha took place. Fascinating culture in an incredibly beautiful city.