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Kyoto and Osaka - Discover Japan!
- Kansai region (September 13-15, 2003)

We flew into Kansai airport on September 13, which in itself was an interesting experience.  The airport is built on reclaimed ocean land, but the airport is sinking much quicker than the engineers projected before the airport was built.	The picture is evidently of Kyomizu-dera, one of Kyoto's most famous temples.  The former Japanese capital is only a quick train ride away from Osaka, where Kansai airport is located.

Having visited Kyoto many times before, I find the most charming aspect of the city to simply wander around the old streets.	This is just a picture of me looking stupid, sorry about that.

Ahhh, this was actually delicious.  Ice-cream made from green tea is very tasty, though it probably is an acquired taste.  It should certainly be much healthier than regular ice-cream though!  People line up to eat this in Kyoto.	Okay, Yuka is here in front of some gigantic temple, or something like that.  I will probably update with more information later on.  As you may understand, this is not one of my favorites.

I believe Bob Dylan talked about Ryoan-ji when he wrote on the cover of his infamous Budokan live CD that "The more I think about it, the more I realize what I left behind in Japan -- my soul, my music and that sweet girl in the geisha house -- I wonder does she remember me? If the people of Japan wish to know about me, they can hear this record -- also they can hear my heart still beating in Kyoto at the Zen Rock Garden -- Someday I will be back to reclaim it".

Built in 1450, the main attraction is the rock garden seen above.  It seems like a perfect spot for some philosophizing, however you will not be there alone.  Unfortunately, this temple is popular among Japanese and foreigners alike.

Finally, there is a quote on a well that says "I learn only to be content".  Although Zen Buddhism is famous for not making too much sense, this quotation is an inspiration to those who feel like learning new things simply to be content.	There are more things to enjoy at Ryoan-ji, for example this pond right outside the temple.

Another picture of the nice pond.  Although I only spent a day in Kyoto this time around, please be aware that there are enough sights in the area to keep you busy for much longer than that.	Venturing on to Osaka, Yuka and I went to see the Osaka Aquarium.  Although extremely crowded on weekends, it is really worth a visit.  Read on to find out why.

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