We bypassed Tokyo and stayed a few days in Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan.

The stunning Golden Pavilion and gardens in Kyoto. There are more than 2000 shrines and temples 
in Kyoto. 

Tranquility Base - Japan was the pit stop for our senses after our frenetic group tour of China.

Gardeners at the Golden Pavilion wear traditional costume. Throughout Kyoto you see people in traditional garb doing everyday work - not just dressing up for the tourists.

Beautiful gardens surround the Heian Jingu Shrine built in 1895. 

Rob and Lisa foolin’ around on the Garyu bridge in the rain. It rained almost all the time we were in Kyoto. Bummer!

Kyoto is a tourist’s paradise: trendy shops, beautiful temples & gardens, and friendly, polite people always ready to help you.

Nijo Castle ponds and gardens are food for the soul.

Bridge over untroubled waters at Nijo Castle in Kyoto

Staff at Roanji Palace in ancient costumes.

The world’s most famous Zen rock garden at the Roanji Palace, Kyoto.

We stayed one night in a ryokan, a Japanese traditional hotel. Dinner is served in the room by ladies in kimonos.

Enjoy your soup and sushi. Sorry, no forks or spoons in a ryokan!

Rob & Pat ready to go down the hall for their hot bath. Sorry, no swimsuits in a ryokan!

We slept on the floor. Sorry, no beds in a ryokan! Actually, it was very comfortable.