Kiyomizudera and Ginkakuji: Kyoto Day 2

Kiyomizudera (Pure Water Temple)

Kiyomizudera (pure water temple)

Quite possibly the most relaxing place you can go to in Japan. Well, if it weren't under construction and always busy. It's a beautiful place, with that large balcony that overlooks a beautiful forest. It's fairly close to Gion (where I am staying), but I still took the bus because I got the day bus pass and I'm lazy.

There are water purification and cleansing places at all temples, but this is by far the most decorative. With the ladle, you take some water and clean your hands, then you put water in your cupped hand and drink. Although many people skip the drinking part. You spit into the draining area, don't swallow.

There are also incense bowls where you pay maybe 10 yen (10 cents) and you burn incense. The smoke is said to have healing powers so you fan it towards you. (If your shoulder is hurting, wave it towards your shoulder, if you need to focus for an exam, wave it towards your forehead! Etc etc.)

Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion)

Next up is Ginkakuji (not to be confused with the similar sounding Kinkakuji.) Ginkakuji is the silver pavilion while Kinkakuji is the golden pavilion. Doesn't look silver? It's not. While the temple is pretty in itself, I think the best part was the walk and then view of the temple. It's in a quiet area, while Kinkakuji can be very crowded and people hustle through.

I also did a bit of shopping for things maybe I can't get in America or easily online. On the left is a Chirimen stuffed bunny. The chirimen craft is special to Japan. It's a weaving technique that leaves soft waves on the fabric so actually, this bunny is made with tiny ruffles. For a cute thing like him, only 1080 (About 10us).

The top right is a fabric piece that will fit in my wall scroll frame. Instead of seeing a man on the moon, Japanese see two bunnies. Therefore rabbits and the moon go together.

The bottom right is a pin of Ginkakuji for my dad and a charm for my brother. Charms like these can be bought at temples throughout Japan. They have many different kinds. For study, for child birth, for girls and boys, just many things. This one is for safe driving! Hang it on your rear view mirror and hopefully you won't get into an accident. There is paper inside with a prayer but you never open it. Just gotta trust it.