Temples, History and Foot-losophy

On our first day in Kyoto, we covered a lot of kilometers following a suggested walking tour. We began at the Zen temple of Ginkakuji, which was built in the 15th century. It consists of the Silver Pavilion (not really silver), half a dozen other temple buildings, a beautiful moss garden and a unique dry sand garden. We followed a circular path through the stunning garden, climbing up above the main area to avoid the crowds of tourists. It was serenely beautiful, marred only by the occasional loud chatter of tour groups passing by.

Temple at Ginkakuji

From the temple we next followed what is called "The Path of the Philosopher". This 2 kilometer stone pathway follows a small canal shaded with cherry trees. It is so-named because one of Japan's most famous philosophers was said to practice meditation while walking this route on his daily commute to Kyoto University. Nowadays along the way are small boutiques, restaurants and pathways leading to other temples. Kevin and I really enjoy the tranquility of this area off the tour bus route and had good discussion of our own on the meaning of life.

Walking beside old canal above the city

We explored several major temples enroute and followed a canal-pathway to an old funicular track. Apparently a hundred or so years ago, the track was used to pull boats up from the river through tunnels in the nearby mountains to a lake. We followed the tracks back into the city and headed for the historic shopping street of the Higashiyama area. Characterized by narrow lanes, wooden buildings and traditional merchant shops, it invokes a feeling of traditional old Kyoto. We wandered for a bit but our feet were complaining about the distance they had covered.

After a quick dinner in a side street restaurant and some confusion at the bus and subway stations on how to get back to the ryokan, we found our way home and enjoyed a sake nightcap.