And now, for Part II of my Kyoto adventures! As I wrote last time, Kyoto is the ancient capital of Japan, and played a central role in its history, so it's only natural that just as the great cities of Europe are teeming with impressive churches and cathedrals, Kyoto is replete with beautiful temples (tera) and shrines (jinja). What's the differ...

Could not miss opportunity to cook with a Japanese lady. Found Mrs Emi in Kyoto Visitor's Guide (KVG- the paper publication available before the end of the month). Negotiated bus system in Kyoto to find her. Cold cold kitchen with one small heater. Wondered if all homes are so unheated. Cooked 4 dishes. Would have been 5 but I was asking too man...

Waaaay too many pictures taken the past few days. Three castles and a trip to Inari to ramble around the sacred mountain there. Lucky enough to snag some standing room only tickets to see the Dance of the Cherry Blossoms performed by Maiko (geishas in training) and then spent the rest of an afternoon walking along the Philosophers Path with all ...