Takao - Northern Kyoto

In this semi-rural area of Kyoto, the autumn leaves were just starting to peek out. There are a couple of famous temples here but far fewer people than central Kyoto. After a steep climb, we reached a precipice with a beautiful view, where you can throw your bad karma (in the form of clay discs) into the void. Satisfying.

Shoren-in Kyoto

The monks had helpfully lit up this temple in Eastern Kyoto's Higashiyama area. The moon was out in force, and they projected kanji onto the mossy lawn in front of the temple for the maximum possible J-effect.

Gion Odori

We went to Kyoto (again) to see the geisha and maiko dances (again); and of course, they were incredibly beautiful, elegant, precise, everything you expect geisha/maiko to be. We refrained from buying the silly omiyage but were served delicious matcha by a couple of the young maiko. This required elbowing many old ladies out of the way, which was very satisfying.