temples of Kyoto

Kyoto has a wealth of temples.  It was raining most of the day, so we took a bus tour to visit three of the most famous (they're all UNESCO World Heritage Sites).

the Golden Temple (Kinkagu-ji) 

Perhaps the rain wasn't so bad.  In bright sunlight the amount of gold leaf is said to be blinding. 

the Silver Temple (Ginkagu-ji)

There is no silver leaf here, but the more rustic temple doesn't need it to be beautiful.  Artisan workers formed sand into wavepatterns, and a replica of Mt. Fuji.

Kiyomizu temple

is named for its spring, prized for its healing.  There are many beautiful temples on the site.