Quite a busy few days spent here. On the first day strolled along the Philospher's Walk to see the Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji) which was covered in scaffolding hence no pictures. The walk, much written about wasn't quite as good as expected, maybe it would be more picturesque with the spring blossom. Still, Rob and I managed several good attempts at trying to out-philosophise each other. Took a quick bus across to the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) which was much more obliging - hence quite a few pictures.

As evening drew in, a walk along an old fashioned Japanese street called Shirakawa Minami (in Gion district) with lots of lanterns proved fruitful to our Geisha spotting. We spied 2 entertaining through a window. That is, they were entertaining... and we spied them through the window. We weren't sure what the etiquette on Geisha stakeouts was, so as they stood up and came towards the window, we legged it. Had dinner in a small backstreet restaurant with bright green leather seats and large extractor fans over the rather small tables. Good tempura though and the friendly little maitre d' gave us the full listings of the Sumo results as take home presents. Which were all in Japanese. Nice thought though.

The next couple of days saw a trip to Arashiyama for some scenic temple time and a bamboo forest, plus a few more temples along the way. Managed to see a Geisha by day, but we think it was a con and just someone dressing up for attention! Good couple of meals in Pontocho alley (another very narrow street with lots of atmosphere and eateries) and Kyoto station - which in itself takes quite a while to explore as very cool building. We also experienced 'the Buddha's belly' at Kiyomizu temple - you descend into complete darkness and feel your way along until you come to a lit-up stone. You then make a wish and if it is a 'true wish' it may be granted. Mine was granted as I wished to GET OUT OF THE PITCH BLACK TUNNEL.

Our hostel was Gojo Annexe; our room had a good view of the Sky Tower and the city lights and staff were very laid back and friendly. Very good city to spend a lot of time.