Friday 4 May
After the usual breakfast and a suitable amount of research into the intricacies of the Kyoto bus system we headed to the station in search of bus stand D2. A huge queue meet our eyes so we wondered if we would hget on any bus. However in the tradition of the Tokyo underground the bus staff packed us on with Joy perched on a tiny seat with her knees around her ears.
Past Gion we got off at Hagishimaya and headed in search of coffee before tackling the temple complex.Following the cross past a car boot sale style market complete is a singer and band in the background.
After a view of the temple we headed for an additional 600 yen each into the gardens. Although the irises were in full bloom the rhodendrum were past their best the layout followed a traditional Japanese patter with streams, woodland and bridges and stepping stones and of course koi. It was clearly bridal season and many a staged photo was being taken.
Heading south towards Gion unfortunately the heavens opened and there was no alternative but to pause for lunch. No english spoken but with pictures we managed to order lovely bento boxes.
The rain seemed to stop and the skies cleared and we headed through the narrow streets arriving at the next temple as it shut and on to Gion.
The streets were packed and as it was the weekend many of the locals were out in their kimonos. The streets are narrow, cobbled and lined with souvenir stores of all kinds. Many photo opportunities en route.
As the day drew to an end we headed to the bus stop and everyone had the same idea so we resorted to a taxi. Back at Kyoto station last minute shopping ensued - presents, vegetables and razor spare parts.
Pre-dinner drinks in the suite were constantly interrupted by the latests update on the local elections in England. We made a third attempt to eat at the local French restaurant but failed again so headed back to the first nights place and sat on the floor.
After the usual breakfast and a suitable amount of research into the intricacies of the Kyoto bus system we headed to the station in search of bus stand D2. A huge queue meet our eyes so we wondered if we would hget on any bus. However in the tradition of the Tokyo underground the bus staff packed us on with Joy perched on a tiny seat with her knees around her ears.
Past Gion we got off at Hagishimaya and headed in search of coffee before tackling the temple complex.Following the cross past a car boot sale style market complete is a singer and band in the background.
After a view of the temple we headed for an additional 600 yen each into the gardens. Although the irises were in full bloom the rhodendrum were past their best the layout followed a traditional Japanese patter with streams, woodland and bridges and stepping stones and of course koi. It was clearly bridal season and many a staged photo was being taken.
Heading south towards Gion unfortunately the heavens opened and there was no alternative but to pause for lunch. No english spoken but with pictures we managed to order lovely bento boxes.
The rain seemed to stop and the skies cleared and we headed through the narrow streets arriving at the next temple as it shut and on to Gion.
The streets were packed and as it was the weekend many of the locals were out in their kimonos. The streets are narrow, cobbled and lined with souvenir stores of all kinds. Many photo opportunities en route.
As the day drew to an end we headed to the bus stop and everyone had the same idea so we resorted to a taxi. Back at Kyoto station last minute shopping ensued - presents, vegetables and razor spare parts.
Pre-dinner drinks in the suite were constantly interrupted by the latests update on the local elections in England. We made a third attempt to eat at the local French restaurant but failed again so headed back to the first nights place and sat on the floor.