Our first day began with a buffet breakfast in the dining area of the Dai Ni Tower Hotel, where we were able to select both Western and Japanese style dishes. Afterwards, we boarded the tour bus, which would take us to our first three destinations.
The first place we visited was Nijo Castle, the old residence of the Tokugawa-era shogun. We toured around the inside of the castle, and experienced the effect of the famous "Nightingale Floor", which 'sings' as the wood moves, warning of any intruders. We were also shown the various rooms, including the shogun's residence.
Secondly, we visited Kinkaku-ji; the Golden Pavillion. The name is not deceptive - the entire building is coated in gold leaf, and surrounded by a beautiful Japanese garden.
Next we were taken on a tour of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the residence of the Emperor prior to his move to Tokyo. It is very difficult to describe how enormous the palace is, especially as it is located within such a crowded city.
We decided to have lunch in Gion, the main entertainment district of Kyoto City...
We'll get to the autumn colours of Kiyomizudera later, but here is a photo taken by J.L.
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