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Travel Photos...Japan 2015, Page One
Kyoto
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Kinkakuji: the lovely Golden Pavilion of Kyoto.

This magnificent building was burnt down by a mad young monk in 1950, and was rebuilt faithfully in 1955. The practice of rebuilding structures as perfect replicas has been quite common in Japan as so many of its heritage buildings were made of wood and were destroyed by fire and earthquake.
Kinkakuji has a beautiful lake and it is a pleasure to stroll through the grounds.

This bird, and the fish, in the photo below, are taking full advantage of its amenities.
Ginkakuji: the Silver Pavillion.
It is said that the Japanese Garden at Ginkakuji was created by the famous landscape designer, Soami.
Fushimi Inari Shrine. This Shinto Shrine has thousands of red torii (arches) leading up to the top of Mt Inari. Great cardio, if you walk right up to the summit, as I did. There is a little sign telling you that you have reached the top.
Wikipedia states: "Since early Japan, Inari was seen as the patron of business, and merchants and manufacturers have traditionally worshipped Inari. Each of the torii at Fushimi Inari Taisha is donated by a Japanese business. First and foremost, though, Inari is the god of rice."
This is my favourite Zen Garden. It is in the temple of Ryoanji in Kyoto. It consists of just 15 stones, raked sand, and a low wall with a "painting" which has been allowed to quietly fade over the centuries.
Ryoanji.
Two rooms with sliding panels in Ryoanji.
Ryoanji also has an extensive stroll garden with a lake.
This is a detail of the Zen Garden within the temple of Tofukuji.

Tofukuji is in the South Eastern corner of Kyoto, and is just a couple of stops from Kyoto Railway Station on the Nara Line.
An interior of one of the temple buildings at Tofukuji.
One of several gardens at Tofukuji in Kyoto.
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