With Kinkaku-ji Temple being one of the most popular among tourists, it was no surprise that I would dedicate an entire post to it. This one left a deep and lasting impression on me. It was enormous with various paths one can traverse, but all equally beautiful. I recall I would have loved to visit Ginkaku-ji Temple as well but we were short on time.
The iconic Kinkaku-ji (Gold) Temple, resplendent against a backdrop of lush green foliage and appearing as if it were floating in the tranquil water. Truly a sight to behold.
You may not find it funny, but we were all very much relieved to know this existed. We encountered many restrooms where the toilets were just holes in the floor and we would have to squat to do our business. Many of us were shocked (culture, my friends!) by this because back in the states, we were accustomed to seated toilets. And by the way, many restrooms in the city like Tokyo had multi-functional toilets. I didn't try it, but some of the others did and said it was quite the experience. I remember using some that had heated seats, which was pretty nice in the winter. Also, most public restrooms I encountered were squeaky clean.
There was an area in which we could sit and relax and enjoy the scenary. The Japanese believe in the powerful healing effect of Shinrin-yoku, which means "forest bathing". And I really do agree. I am aware there are forests dedicated to this specifically, but for me, a walk through any forest is good enough. My days spent in Kyoto was full of this and I wish I could bathe in the healing air of the forest on a daily basis.
Never in my life had I seen a tree like this: thin, straight stalk with a poof ball of green at the very top. They were strangely cute and I really liked them. I still do. Pictured below were the group of girls I went with. I don't know where our guys went off to but I believe we met up with them later on.
Until next time...!
Hi dear friend excellent Writing. God Bless you
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