" Hello Kyoto II "

Part two of my Kyoto tour was a visit to another well known, Unesco world heritage
site called Kiyomizudera Temple.


Kiyomizudera temple - "Pure Water Temple,
is one of the most celebrated temples of Japan, founded in 780, its name
was derived from the fall's pure waters.




funny thing, i don't remember climbing these steps, maybe because i was busy
taking fotos at that time.


symbolical shrines outside.


and more of these on the other side.


the hillside view, looking beyond and below.
The stage affords visitors a nice view of the numerous cherry and maple trees below
as well as of the city of Kyoto in the distance.
But because it's december, the only thing seen were brown trees.



going inside the temple and ringing the bell.


a long and winding view.


a niche where one can experience the holy water



Kiyomizudera is best known for its wooden stage that juts out from its main hall,
13 meters above the hillside below.
how this temple was built "without the use of nails",
one can't help but admire its craftsmanship and beauty.


at the end of our walk, we spotted this monk, standing quietly and
I think she was asking for donations.


In and out of the temple are rows of tempting Omiyage- おみやげ
(gifts), a temptation for tourists and locals alike.


I love this particular shop, a hello kitty inspired okashi おかし (delicacies)
one that says "Kyoto".
and btw, a must try in this city is Green Tea,
from real Green tea leaves, to candies, ice cream, cream puffs, you name it,
they got it.


and some even colorful fancy trinkets.

Ps: you might be wondering where are all the tourists in these fotos,
believe me, the place was packed. ^0^
It's hard to get a good angle, esp. where the holy water's located.
The view was spectacular and the temple feels sacred.
it was definitely a great experience.

Too bad, some of the people in our tour find it boring though.
Oh well...

for more inspiring skies... visit skywatch.