Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion)
The most famous site in Kyoto. The subject of Yukio Mishima's famous novel, "Temple of the Golden Pavilion", this temple was burned by a monk because it was too beautiful for this world (he thought). Best seen in the morning, before all the tourist buses swamp the place. Overlooked are wonderful gardens surrounding the temple.
Gingkakuji (Silver Pavilion)
The sister temple to Kinkakuji, this is in my mind a more attractive place to hang out. Far less crowded than Kinkakuji, it's main focal point is the white sand garden next to the house. This garden is meant to be viewed by moonlight. Unfortunately, it is closed at night, so we can only speculate what it is like at night.
Entrance to Garden at Daitokuji
Buddha Image
Temple Guard
Usually there are two guards on either side of a temple entrance. One guard symbolizes life, the other death. Guess which one this is...
Garden at Manshuin (I think)
One of the classic gardens of Japan, where every piece represents a larger landscape feature. Great places to meditate away an afternoon.
Garden Bridge
Stone Lantern
These are found in almost every classic Japanese garden.
Teahouse Window
A great example of the Japanese ability to weave the common with the elegant.
Todaiji
Located in Nara, this building houses the famous Buddha of Nara. This building is reported to be the largest wooden nonmilitary structure in the world. Apparently, the U.S. Army has constructed some monster wooden building used for testing whatever. I like this one better.
Todaiji Buddha
This picture does not do the Buddha justice. It is HUGE!
Inoshishi (Boar) Statue
Behind are casks of sake (rice wine) used for ceremonies.