After being so long in “nature” (well, Kumano Kodo is perhaps the most you might get of that in Japan – aside the interior, where there are no paths, no accessible space) we went to Kyoto.

Especially the gardens were our main interest

Their twisted and gnarly trees

Small bridges over ponds

And gateways

Another dragon at the end of a roof – normally there would be ogres but dragons count as well

Looks quite nasty…

Tough meal

And again the trees

What is in the script?? Must be either very nasty or juicy if the expression is any guide…

Perfect alignment of tree and roof in Nanzen-Ji temple

These old sliding doors were painted just beautifully

And the famous tiger-scene.

The whole place of Nanzen-Ji is very peaceful and intriguing

Different view

Pathways…

And the green maple

After Nanzen-Ji closed (most places do so at 17:00) we headed a bit down the “Philosopher’s path” named after a professor of philosophy who did the 2 km every day to university for some 35+ years.

Here are small temples and shrines as well

With nice features

Bamboo is growing as the natural forest (well it should be called meadow as it is grass technically )

And side-shrines next to natural places

Evening creates a wonderful mood

And these little bridges over the stream are just lovely

Time to go home

On the way back we had a very interesting meal.

The paper (yes, it’s just thicker paper) doesn’t burn…

What should I take???

Hotpot is always a good choice

Currently there is a sock promotion… When you buy a bottle of drink you get a sock with it to cover the bottle so it stays cooler – very Japanese