On Tuesday, November 20th, we made our first day trip to the famous city of Kyoto. It was about an hour train ride from our home station, and we were in Kyoto from about 11am to 7pm.

We took a crowded bus to the section of Kyoto called the Philosophers' Pathway, where we followed the river and found many different beautiful Shrines and Temples. It is believed that throughout the ages, philosophers and priests have strolled along this tranquil canal thinking deep thoughts. The pathway runs almost a mile, allowing you to think your own deep thoughts.

The architecture and landscape of this area was breathtaking. We wish you could have experienced it with us... the pictures really don't do it justice!

Our first stop along the Philosophers' Pathway was Ginkaku-ji (Silver) Temple. We had to pay 500yen to enter the Temple and followed a marked off pathway to a beautiful lookout point.

The pond and trees really gave this Temple area a mysterious and romantic feeling.