Kyoto: Part 1

I am in love with Kyoto! It was such a beautiful city. There was so much to do and see, a great biking city and had tons of cute shops and restaurants. The shrines and temples were amazing. The gardens were pristine, calming and each very distinct. Derek and I rented bikes and it was the best decision. I hate walking out of the subway completely disoriented and the anxiety of missing your stop on the bus. I think I left part of my heart in Kyoto.

On our first full day we went to the tallest pagoda in Japan. It was quite the sight and a nice woman offered us what I think was plum tea which was delicious.

After we made our way to Heian Jingu shrine. It is most famous for the garden and pond with a stepping stone walkway. It was beautiful and I loved the orange shrines in front. Also, I want the tassel and zigzag garland for my house.  

The next temple was the first one we went to when we got to Kyoto. Derek found it on a blog and it's kind of off the beaten tracks. There are tons of Buddhas covered with moss and weathered away. Unfortunately, we didn't see on the card given to us the photos were prohibited. Oops.

We ate Okonomiyaki (I finally pronounced it right on the last day in Japan) a cabbage, egg, squid and onion pancake and sesame ice cream! So these pictures only cover half our stay in Kyoto, stay tuned for the rest.