Kyoto – New Years Day 2009

Going to the temple first thing on new years’ day is a tradition for most Japanese families, to pray for the new year. We followed the hordes of Japanese (and tourists) climing the steep alleyway to Kiyomizu-dera (清水寺 – pure water temple).

Because it was a new year, there were many young Japanese girls in their traditional kimono gear – flowery dress, funky hair, white socks and sandals. I just had to take a photo (see below) because of the nice purple-and-pink fluffy kimono and awesome hair. Her dad did the picture-taking.

After the brief photo stop, it was another 20mins before we reached the entrance of the temple

collection of temple "lucky charm" on sale

temple grounds

It was about 3.30pm which meant time for the sunset. The great thing about climbing uphill for so long to reach the temple is that from where we were standing, we had a great view over Kyoto city.

sunset over Kyoto city

Zoe takes a drink from the temple’s “pure water” which came from the waterfall nearby. All the visitors drank from the little tin cups.

A last glance at the temple on our way out

For dinner we headed to the district of Gion, famous for being the hometown of the Geisha. We did prow the streets and back alleyways for a little while, but didnt see any (damn). We gave up and went window shopping instead.

some dark alleyway in Gion

mini kimono sandals

cutesy mini sushi embroidery ¥150, $2.50

cute puffy cake slice ¥300, $5

puffy vegetable pieces (¥300, $5)

All this food reminded me of dinner, so we went to a nearby cheap eatery that specialised in Kyoto style okonomiyaki

okonomiyaki store entrance

whats cookin - fresh batch all ready for us to eat

Zoe was so hungry, she actually couldn't wait for me to take a photo

After dinner we went back to our not-so-spectacular budget hotel accommodation. Apart from the very nice and friendly husband-and-wife team who run the family business, this place is very run down and definitely not recommended. It is called Station Ryokan Seiki.

Station Ryokan Seiki