Kyoto, Japan - 25th January 2023

We awoke to snowfall, which appeared to take Kyoto by surprise. The roads and pavements weren't salted and buses returning to the city from mountain routes clanked along streets in their snow chains. The streets were filled with the sound of ambulance sirens rushing to rescue elderly residents who had taken a tumble in the icy slush of the busy streets.

Beyond the city centre, the snow was beautiful. It was a perfect day to visit Kyoto's famous Kinkaju-ji or Golden Pavilion.

Originally the retirement villa of a Shogun, it was later converted to a religious temple by his son, as he had requested. The gleaming gold leaf of the temple was set off beautifully in the pristine snow.

At the Kinkaju-ji in the snow.

A good few inches, I'd say.

Golden phoenix at Kinkaju-ji

The Kinkaju-ji lay quite far north of the city centre and we combined this with a visit to Kitano Tenman-Gu Shinto Shrine. A colourful monthly market was normally held here on the 25th of each month but we were disappointed to find the snow had put paid to that.

The shrine was peaceful as the snow continued to fall, yet the shrine's famous plum trees managed to put on a show of blossom for us.

Kitano Tenman-Gu

Kitano Tenman-Gu Shinto Shrine

Kitano Tenman-Gu Shinto Shrine

Walking around two beautiful temples in the snow meant we were ready to warm up at a ubiquitous 7-11 with warm bottled tea and a rice snack.

It was time for some indoor visits, especially as Christine's trusty, comfortable boots had proved no match for the snow and sprung a leak.

Kitano Tenman-Gu Shinto Shrine

Kitano Tenman-Gu Shinto Shrine

Kitano Tenman-Gu Shinto Shrine

We found ourselves close to the Nishjin district, traditionally famous for fabric production so we headed to a traditional Obi (Kimono sash) weaving factory and museum, Orinasu-Kan.

Our lovely hostess seemed surprised and delighted to see any visitors on such a day and gave us a personal tour.

The tour had to be taken in socks as we were to walk over polished floors and tatami matting. We explained with embarrassment that Christine's socks were completely sodden due to the leak in the boots and were handed a complimentary new pair, giving the frozen toes a chance to thaw in cosy, dry fabric.

The tour was fascinating and our guide lovely, We saw the traditional looms in action, where it would take up to three months to produce one Obi.

Beautiful traditional weaving at Orinasu-Kan

Orinasu-Kan

Orinasu-Kan Guide

Our final cultural stop was the Nishijin Textile Centre, an impressive modern building where we were able to see demonstrations by local artisans of gold-leaf work and traditional weaving. It was a great spot to grab a few locally-produced souvenirs before heading home to thaw out.

Of course we ducked into our favourite supermarket on the way to pick up some dinner and cakes for a spot of restorative afternoon tea.

Gold-leaf artist at Nishijin Textile Centre.

Traditional weaver and her product

Nishijin Textile Centre

Cakes for tea.