Japan Tour

11/23/2010 | Posted by Dongjin Han

Shinkansen <Clike Here for the link of the image>

After two days of stay at Tokyo, I would like to visit Kyoto. Kyoto was Japan's capital and the emperor's residence from 794 until 1868. It is now the country's seventh largest city with a population of 1.4 million and a modern face. It is also home of countless temples, shrines and other historically priceless structures.
The picture above is called Shinkansen also known as the bullet train, is a network of high speed railway lines in Japan. It links most major cities in Japan and travels at speeds up to 300km/h. This method of transportation will be used throughout my stay in Japan.

Cost: Approximately $300 (Roundtrip from Tokyo to Kyoto)

Kinkakuji <Clike Here for the link of the image>

Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) is a Zen temple in northern Kyoto whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf. Kinkakuji is an impressive structure built overlooking a large pond, and is the only building left of Yoshimitsu's former retirement complex. It has burned down numerous times throughout its history including twice during the Onin War, a civil war that destroyed much of Kyoto; and once again more recently in 1950 when it was set on fire by a fanatic monk. The present structure was rebuilt in 1955.

Cost: $5 (Admission)

Kiyomizudera <Clike Here for the link of the image>

One of Japan's most popular temples, Kiyomizudera also called "Pure Water Temple" was founded in 780 AD and still functions as a temple associated with Hosso sect of Japanese Buddhism. The temple was also added to the list of UNESCO world heritage sites 

The Otowa Waterfall <Clike Here for the link of the image>

The Otowa Waterfall is located at the base of Kiyomizudera's main hall. Its waters are divided into three separate streams, and visitors use cups attached to long poles to drink from them. Each stream's water is said to have a different benefit, namely to cause longevity, success at school and a fortunate love life. However, drinking from all three streams is considered greedy.

Cost: $5 (Admission)

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