First Snowfall

We had our first snow fall last night, Christmas night. It was basically a light flurry and did not really stick. The next morning there were still a few flakes coming down. If you look really, really, really, really closely, you can see them (or not . . .).


But, up in the hills in the distance, the snow did stick at least for a little while.

Everyone keeps saying how January and February will be quite cold. The weather here in Kyoto is accentuated because the city sits in a basin (盆地) and the humidity is quite high. Winter is just starting, I am wishing it over already. ;-) Where is the California sun?

Nijo Castle

We've had really good weather all week, so with the sun out I decided to go visit Nijo Castle this afternoon. Pictures below.

Chishakuin

Today I just went for a short walk to Chishakuin Temple. It is really close to my apartment. In fact, there are a bunch of temples really close to my apartment. I'll get around to exploring all of them at some point. In fact, Kyoto is known for its numerous temples and shrines.

It was quite cold today, so I was not out long. A few pictures below.

Tofukuji

Up to this point, I thought the momiji was interesting and kind of cool, but I was not overly excited about it. But Kayo-san had showed me her pictures from Tofukuji and recommened that I go. I am really glad that I did. It was by far the best momiji I have seen this season, and now I am excited about next year exploring for more momiji. We were also very lucky with the weather as there was no rain for 3-4 days straight.

In this photo it looks as if the building is on fire, but it is only the harmless colorful leaves.

Arashiyama Light Up

Tonight I met up with one of my UCLA friends, Kayo-san. She came down from Tokyo for a couple of days to see the momiji. I took the train to nearby Arashiyama to meet her and see the light of the momiji. (The previous weekend I had ridden my bike almost all the way to Arashiyama.)

Here are some photos from the light-up. With the low light the photos only came out so-so. It will be time for a new camera soon. Mine is around 5 years old, and I am sure the newer cameras must do better in lower light situations.