Under the Olive branch

For a thousand years, Kyoto was the capital and spiritual heart of Japan. If you love history, politics and traditions then Kyoto is a must. There are over 2000 temples and shrines in the city, along with many gardens and historical buildings. There is so much to cover that ultimately you would need several days or even a week to explore this city. Ryoanji Temple A zen temple known for its rock garden. The temple is part of the Myōshin-ji school of the Rinzai branch of Zen Buddhism. 15 rocks are situated in the garden and no matter where you stand, at least one of the rocks is always hidden. There are great views of the garden from the Hojo which is the head priest's former residence. Inside the Hojo, there are some interesting paintings on the sliding doors. Kinkakuji Kinkakuji was the retirement house of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu and became a Zen temple of the Rinzai sect after his death. The Golden Pavillion is an iconic structure where two floors are constru