Kyoto Day 1

I’ve been trying to think of the best way to update the blog with my trip to Kyoto and Osaka and I think the best way to do so is to go day by day so I can give you detailed explanations. Don’t want to miss ANYTHING!

On my first day in Kyoto I decided to explore Kyoto station area because my hostel was near by and there were plenty of things to see around

Kyoto station is impressive.

Like with anything in life, when the building was unveiled in 1997 it was met with mixed feelings. I personally really liked it. There is a huge atrium that overlooks the main concourse, and many levels to explore. Actually there are 15 floors and from the 15th floor you get an incredible view of the surrounding area.

I decided not to be lazy and actually climb all the stairs, so I was sweating buckets by the time I got to the top. Well worth it though!

After exploring the station I moved on to Higashi Hongan-Ji.

This temple was rebuilt in 1895 after a fire destroyed it, and is pretty monumental in size. Nowadays the temple serves as the headquarters of the Otani branch of the Jodo Shi-shu school of Buddhism.

Two minutes walk from where I was staying one can find Nishi Hongan-Ji.

This temple is the headquarters for the Hongan-Ji branch of the Jodo Shin-shu school of Buddhism. I really enjoyed this temple because I was able to take part one of their meditations, and since then have become interested in learning more about Buddhism and its teachings.

Keeping you posted!