Next Stop: Kyoto

Kyoto was stop two of three in our 10-day trip to Japan. It was filled with tourists, but few from the West. Visiting Kyoto in the fall seems to be the equivalent of watching the leaves change in New England. We arrived at the perfect time-- lots of reds, yellows and oranges.

English was still prevalent in Kyoto, but not as common as in Tokyo.

In addition, the subway system in Kyoto wasn't nearly as extensive, so we did even more walking. And Kyoto has a lot more steps. A lot more. Everything there seems to have been built on a hill. That makes for amazing views but killer walks.

The city has lots of grand and well-known temples and shrines, and even more that are small and little-known. There's enough to spend a busy week in Kyoto. We, however, were there just a little more than 48 hours, so we stuck to the main attractions.

I knew little of the history of what I was seeing, but it was easy to admire the architecture and history in front of us.

More photos from Kyoto tomorrow.

Fushimiinari-taisya Shrine

View of Kyoto from the top, at sunset.

Heian-jingu Shrine

Tofukuji Temple

Nijojo Castle

Kyoto Tower