Kyoto: Day 1

So Saturday I finally got to Kyoto, checked into my hostel and headed out to Saihou Temple (Moss Garden Temple). I had to make reservations in advance and pay 3000 yen (about 28 bucks) to get in. It was pretty amazing and I think it was worth the entry fee but I am not sure I would pay to go again. The place really is beautiful, but for 3000 yen and you can only stay one and half hours, so.... instead of you going, how bout you all just look at my photos and pay me 10 bucks?






After that, I went to a place called Mushi Dera (literally "insect temple"). Apparently here is one of the few places that bell crickets can live all year long. Why??? No idea, my Japanese isn't that good yet. Sorry! Really it wasn't that big of a place and the main reason why it is famous is that you can buy a charm and apparently the kami sama (the god) of this temple will grant you whatever wish you make....right........ anyway, I enjoyed seeing the place and when I talk about my trip and mention this place, everyone knows it and they are very surprised that I went there bc it is not famous with gaijin (foreigners).

that night I went to Kiyomizudera (healing water temple) for their "light up" show. This is what they call it when they shine lights on the fall leaves and temple. I had been here before in the summer and during the day, so it was nice to see it differently. check out the photos:




as always, check out the gallery for more photos.