Biyodoin and Kiyomizu Temples

The other night, I spent the evening at Hiroko's house since we were going sightseeing the next day. Her mom made some delicious "homemade" curry as Hiroko likes to say. Her dad was out bowling for the night so we played UNO. I have to admit, it was one of the longest games of UNO I have ever played. I believe that at one point, each of us picked up at least 10 cards in a row trying to find a matching color or number and we also had 20 cards in our hand during the game. After that, Hiroko got out some huge playing cards and we played a couple of games. The next morning, it was off to Kyoto and Hiroko was off to work.

We started off at Uji Bridge. I am not really sure why it is famous but it was a beautiful bridge with a beautiful view. From the bridge we went to Byodoin Temple which houses several national treasures as well as the Phoneix Room. The Phoenix Room was supposed to be a place similiar to Heaven if I understood everything correctly and atop minature wooden clouds sat fifty-two Buddhist statues who are playing different musical instruments or dancing. They are the sole remaining Buddhist statues of the 11th century. There were also two phoenixes as well as a bell housed in the museum but no pictures were permitted.

(Uji Bridge)

(View from Uji Bridge)

(Biyodoin Temple)

(Another view of Biyodoin)

After Byodin it was off to Kiyomizu Temple. I really do not remember much of the information from Kiyomizu but there were several buildings on the property as well as a magnificent view. We had an English audio translation but by the time we figured it out, we were pretty much done with the tour. If the audio guide was returned within 45 minutes it was free so we were on the move. However, there were several spectacluar views. It was snowing during our outing and if you look closely, you can see a few snowflakes in a couple of the pictures. Kiyomizu was also a World Heritage Site - two in one day, not too bad. As we were headed for the car we noticed a couple of young women all decked out in make-up and formal dress so I snapped a few pictures. Hope you enjoy.

(The Entrance to Kiyomizu)

(Beautiful view of the temple)

(With Justin)

(Look up at the temple from the ground. The complex was rather big housing a stable and probably eight or nine buildings.)

(Lucky waterfall)

(Geisha Girls with Mrs. Aochi to the left)

Well, that is all for now. Mom and Aunt June, I really do not have anything else to put up at present. My apologies for the delay, I know how much you guys look forward to checking in on me. If anything exciting comes up, I will be sure to let you know. Only a few more weeks left in Japan so I am trying to make the most of it. Take care! Miss you and hope you are loving life!!!