Kyoto_Monday_1

Days Five & Six - Touring the Temples and Castles of Kyoto & Capturing Manhole Covers Sunday found us at Nijo Castle, home of the Shogun since the 17th Century. As with all Japanese structures built by nobles of old, Nijo castle uses up a disproportionate amount of Japan’s wood reserves and premium realestate. The interior is comprised of amazing screens hand painted by long dead artists, while outside are some of the most meticulously manicured gardens in the world. Note: given Japanese imperial intrigue of the 17th century, the floors of Nijo Castle squeak with each step. Called Nightingale Floors, they were designed to alert the Shogun and friends when Ninjas were going to interrupt their sleeping and breathing. Then there was Monday at Ryoan-ji Temple, the famous rock garden layout in the 16th Century and maintained as such to present day. The rock garden was everything a minimalist could hope for and as such I was happy. Surrounding the temple were more meticulously manicured gardens, lush and verdant from a recent rain. It seems that moss is the Japanese ground cover of choice (see photo form wonderful example). We have also begun collecting photos of man-hole covers. Those of you who know Sol Lewitt’s work will realize I’m ripping from a photo series of his, but I’m on vacation. Cut me some slack. With that, I’ll say goodbye. Today is our last in Kyoto and there is a philosophers path that needs walking. p.s. I am writing this from the upper level of the Kyoto Train Station. They have free WiFi throughout the building. Be Well Dan & Lynn 05/18/2004