Kyoto, Fall 2021, Japan
During my travels in Kyoto, I felt more than just a typical tourist experience, it was a deep cultural immersion. Standing before these ancient temples and historical sites, I was filled with awe. The architecture here is not merely a combination of stone and wood, it embodies millennia of philosophy and art, reflecting the Japanese reverence for nature and pursuit of harmony.
清水寺
Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward
The temple hangs above a cliff, overlooking all of Kyoto, surrounded by lush greenery, as if time has come to a standstill. Walking on the wooden stage, a gentle breeze caresses my face, and the sounds of birds fill the air, bringing an immense sense of peace to my heart. The intricate carvings and architectural details within the temple showcase the exquisite craftsmanship of traditional Japanese art.
紅葉, 秋の清水寺
金閣寺（鹿苑寺）
Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward
Kinkaku-ji, or Rokuon-ji, impresses with its shimmering gold exterior and tranquil atmosphere. The reflection of the building on the lake creates a picturesque scene, while the surrounding gardens and plants showcase the unique beauty of Japanese horticulture.
嵐山公園
Arashiyama Park
Arashiyama is the place I had been most looking forward to visiting. In Chinese, its bamboo forest and autumn foliage are widely known. Only by coming here can one fully experience the beauty of nature firsthand.
竹林の小径 Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
渡月橋 Togetsukyō Bridge
🍁嵐山 🍁 紅葉 🍁
元離宮二条城, 京都御苑
Nijo Castle & Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
These two places are adjacent to each other, both historical sites with very distinctive architectural styles. The Kyoto Imperial Palace represents Japan’s traditional aesthetics and culture, while Nijo Castle integrates Western architectural elements, featuring a splendid appearance rich in historical significance that reflects the castle designs of the Warring States period. Both locations are must-see historical landmarks when exploring Kyoto.
Nijo-jo Castle Link祇園
Gion, Higashiyama Ward
This is one of the hottest travel destinations on Twitter, and you can even find great photo spots on Instagram. It’s actually not a park; it’s a residential area. This means different people can discover various aspects of the place, which invites personal exploration. It’s adjacent to the Kamo River, making it a perfect spot for a walk. I originally intended to gather historical data on the buildings in Gion and along the Kamo River, using GIS tools to visually reflect historical changes, but the current footprints data is incomplete.
