Kyoto Mania

    We went to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a World Heritage Site and one of the most famous places for viewing autumn leaves in Kyoto.   Corona is almost under control in Japan, and the number of newly infected people in Kyoto on this day was "one". Many tourists, mainly young people, crowded into the temple.   The above photo shows the Niomon Gate, an important cultural property.     The view from the top of the stage of Kiyomizu.     The stage of Kiyomizu is about 12 meters high from the ground, equivalent to a four-story building. In the Edo period (1603-1867), there was no end to the number of people who jumped from this stage to pray for good luck, causing trouble for the temple (readers, please do not imitate this). Even today, when making a big decision, Japanese people usually say, "I'm going to jump off the stage at Kiyomizu.” It is also used when making a big purchase.     Koyasu-tou (Important Cultural Pr...

  It takes about one hour from Kyoto Station to the northwest by JR bus to reach Takao. This is one of the inner sanctuaries of Kyoto with three ancient temples, Jingo-ji, Saimyo-ji and Kozan-ji. View of the bridge in front of the gate of Saimyo-ji Temple and the Kiyotaki River We didn't visit any temples this time, so we walked down along the river from here for autumn-leaf viewing. The hiking course along the Kiyotaki River from Jingoji Temple downstream to the village of Kiyotaki takes about one hour. This area has long been called "Kin-un-kyo" or "Gorge of Brocade Clouds," and is a famous place for viewing the autumn leaves, one step ahead of Kyoto City. We arrived at Kiyotaki. From here, it was another hour's walk to JR Hozukyo Station. 紅葉とともに、有名な保津峡の川下りの船にも出会うことができました。 Along with the autumn leaves, we were also able to see the famous Hozukyo river boat. For about 20 days from now, Kyoto will be in its most beautiful season.

  When I visited the Kyoto Botanical Garden in late October, the autumn flowers were in full bloom. First, I was greeted by the lovely cosmos. The rose garden is in full bloom with autumn roses. Chrysanthemums are also in bloom. The large chrysanthemums  with a diameter of 20cm that the horticulturists have painstakingly cultivated are magnificent.