Chris Visits!!!!!!

Chris is our first family visitor. The kids were so excited to see her.





Hailey showing off her Japanese fashion. She's wearing a Yukata, which is a summer kimono.

Shukkei-en Garden

Shukkei-en Garden is 4-5 blocks from our Apartment. It is such a nice serine place. It dates back to 1620, but was rebuilt after the bombing.

We thought it would a nice place for a first day to help with the jet lag.

Trip to Kyoto

For a three day trip we took Chris to Kyoto. It is nice seeing pictures that Chris took. They capture things we take for granted living here.





Lunch at the “Japanese Restaurant”





One of the many many tunnels on the way


A gas station

The view from the hotel room

Tenryuji Temple Kyoto

Kinkakuji Temple was originally built to be a palace in 1255. Later in 1339 it was converted to a Zen temple.








Check out the giant tatami rooms





The rock gardens surrounding the ponds are almost a standard in Kyoto










More tile/landscape ideas for the next back yard

Kinakuji (Golden) Temple Kyoto

Kinkakuji Temple or as it is know the “Golden” Temple is one of the most popular in Kyoto. It was originally built in the kamakura period (1185-1332). In 1397 it was converted into a country villa for a retired shogun. It was later converted to a Buddhist temple in 1422. The current structure was rebuilt in 1955 after a fire.

Nijo-jo

Nijo-jo castle was built in 1603. It was the official home of the Shogun Ieyasu. I think he must have been paranoid, all the halls thru the castle were fitted with “nightingale” floors. The floors sing and squeak every step so he could hear intruders coming. It kept me and the kids entertained for at least 30 minutes.

Unfortunately they did not allow cameras inside. The inside had very large Tatami rooms.




A large wood carving




Ninomaru Garden is located in the castle grounds













The moat



It was Hot!!