We headed out on a beautiful Monday morning. This is the FIRST clear view of Fuji I've had since we got here (a year ago if you're counting.)
Artsy "From-the-Road" Shot
Felt like we were right at the foot! This is about two to three hours into the trip. Still gorgeous...
Then--WHAM! Out of nowhere, we hit a snow storm while passing through a mountain
We tried to pull over but the truck stops were being snow plowed with feet upon feet of snow
Long story short...our "five hour drive" took eight and we got in to Kyoto late. Our hotel rented bikes so we tried to make up time by seeing Eastern Kyoto, (like Paris--divided by a river,) via bike.
Wheeeeeeee
Cool brook that ran through town
Second largest gate in Japan. (I know..you're impressed too.)
Matt and the Gate
Again...Big Gate
Matt demonstrating size of door
For a few bucks we got to go inside. The steps are HUGE!
View from the top
Three of these sculptures supported the giant urn with incense
Aquaduct that run through town
Edge of roof. Anybody know the architectural name for these guys???
Below Aquaduct
Matt demonstrating size of arches
Little Shrine
Takoyaki, a popular festival treat that also originates in Osaka, where we're headed next.
Takoyaki Flipper (in the front are cabbage and ginger--two of the main ingredients with the other being the batter and the octopus.)
We're now in the Geisha district
There were many ladies getting commercials filmed, photos taken, etc. Tourists were falling over themselves trying to snap a photo.
Pretty wall
The curved bamboo rails at the bottom are a traditional Kyoto architectural element. They simply cover gutters.
This is the monster temple in Kyoto. It's a World Heritage Sight and is up for consideration to be the next Seven Wonders of The World ( so they say)
Early Blossoms...Peach?
The Main Attraction
Cuddling with my Ozeki One Cup (Sake)
