Japan 2006: Kyoto - Temples and Gardens

Kiyomizu-dera, Kyoto

Temples and Gardens of Kyoto
Nevertheless, the manicured gardens and the sakura-infused temples would easily be the highlight of the any visitor's trip. Kiyomizu-dera was my favorite spot in Kyoto, with its mix of Buddhist and Shinto architecture draped onto the edge of the eastern hills. Kinkaku-ji, where a gold pavilion takes centrestage is also a must-see. Ryoan-ji is a understated temple with an immaculately austere and minimalist rock garden, prepared every morning by the resident monks.

Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto

Kyoto Protocol
For any self-respecting environmentalist, Kyoto would also be synonymous with the Kyoto Protocol. Indeed, conservation and recycling are so big they have become an unconscious part of life in Japan. All trash bins provide recycling receptacles clearly labelled for different types of recyclable materials. In the Japanese film "It's Only Talk" which I caught last weekend at the SIFF, one of the subplots revolves around a playground, in the Tokyo suburb of Kamata, that is made up of rubber tires. There is even an entire 3-storey-tall T-rex made up of rubber tires. But things are starting to stir as this article illustrates.