Kyoto - Old and New

Yesterday was a day of two halves. In the morning we headed to the Gion district of Kyoto. Gion is just over the river and as a result many of the old buildings have been spared the fires which have swept through the main part of Kyoto. Gion is now one of the 4 Geisha districts and apparently is the hang out of politicians, company presidents and as we found turtles and cats!

we were lucky enough to pass some Maiko (Geisha in training - you can tell by their embroidered collars, which will be swapped for plain white when they become full Geisha.) It looks like the Maiko were planning to take some photos for themselves, maybe of the hoards of tourists. We were wandering around Gion in the morning and so missed the worst of the crowds.

The park in Gion was full of tourists and locals who were grabbing the best spots for cherry blossom viewing. Jase then spotted by a fountain, a group of eager blossom spotters of the turtle variety.

Turtles

Stone paved Gion street

On our way out of Gion and back over the river we came across a small temple where there was bell ringing. There was also a very friendly temple cat.

Bell ringing

Temple neko (neko = cat)

After spending the morning in Gion we got the subway to Kyoto station, primarily so Jase could visit one of his favourite electronic shops, Bic Camera. What we hadn't realised was just how amazing Kyoto train station is! We traveled up many escalators and walked up many stairs to get to the top of the station where there is a picnic area and terrace. There is also a skywalk which gave great views of Kyoto and Kyoto tower.

Kyoto station

Kyoto tower viewed from the station

Kyoto station roof and skywalk

View from Kyoto station roof

We leave Kyoto on Monday and fly back to London on Tuesday after one last night in Tokyo.