Japan V

Kyoto... Hmm, many non-japanese people just know Kyoto from the Kyoto-Protocol which should regulate the CO2 emissions. But Kyoto is much much much more than this protocol! Kyoto was Japan's capital from 794 to 1868. It is now the country's seventh largest city with a population of 1.4 million people and a modern face.

Countless temples, shrines and other historically priceless structures survive in the city today.

No question, the most famous temple is Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavillon, which attracts loads of tourists a day. Not less impressive is Kiyomizudera on top of a hill, where you have a nice view from its wooden terrace. In 1994, the temple was added to the list of UNESCO world heritage sites.

Pictures from top:
Toji pagoda
Kiyomizudera gate
Kiyomizudera temple
Kinkakuji temple
Ginkakuji areal at sunset