In Gion at a Geisha bar....
by j-san
In Gion at a Geisha bar. Again, this was only possible via an introduction. The Geisha were more sophisticated than the Maiko. They focused on the male members of our party. I asked a friend who often attends functions where Geisha are invited to entertain and she told me this was perfectly normal. Women don't go to Gion bars. The Geisha in this picture was taking part in the Gion Odori (yearly Geisha dance) the next day, yet here she was up in the early hours of the morning the night before!
Bar Isn't It?
by j-san about Bar Isn't It?
I hate this place.
But, MANY foreigners (age group 21-31)love it. This is a point of contention between me and my friends. I find it sleazy, smoky and the staff really unfriendly.
Still, you can meet people for sure after a few drinks. It is essentially a pick-up bar. eeeuuggh :/ None. Just the usual casual stuff like jeans, mini skirts etc.
Japanese Style Cuisine
by pammo about ? (3 circles in a tower formation symbol)
Look at the displays outside to see if you can find one you would like. It was all quite tasty and the service was polite and attentive. The tempura is served in courses while each item is fried so that it is hot and fresh. Try one of the special set menus. Some come with 'beer service' (includes beer). The deep fried ice cream was intriguing.
KYOTO: Golden Pavilion
by dewaele.j
Actual name of the temple is Kinkaku-ji. The golden pavilion in the centre of the park is unique, not only because it is covered in a thick layer of gold leaf, but also because it is built in 3 different architectural styles. This 'house' was built somewhere around 1220. The whole temple complex is situated in a very beautifull park.
Meditate in Zen Garden
by traveldream
There are 15 stones in the Zen garden inside Ryoan-ji. But most people only see 14 of them. Where is the 15th? Only the enlightened one can see...
I was kidding. Well, not entirely. There are 15 stones, but most people see only 14. If you find the right position to sit or stand, you can see all the stones.
I was there on a rainy day in autumn, pretty exhausted. It was calming to sit there although I didn't really understand the garden... ;)