A thousand a day...Journey to Japan (Part I)

Day 36: Jan. 11, 2010 (Kyoto)
At Kiyomizu Temple, drinking from the spring water brings longevity and makes all your wishes come true

Walking the backstreets of Kyoto for the afternoon, we discovered so many wonderful things. We saw this man working diligently in his shop, so we walked in and found out he makes candles from all natural plant materials and he hand paints them.

We also spoke with this man and learned he was repairing a part for a butsudan, a Buddhist symbol found in homes and shrines.

Day 35: Jan. 10, 2010 (Osaka)
A man in a silver suit was performing outside Osaka Castle, but the real show was just watching the children as they watched the performance.

As thanks for helping with part of the show, this little girl got to choose between a lollipop and a photo of the performer. When she chose the photo, he was so honored and excited. It was truly precious. He gave the little girl the lollipop, too.

Day 34: Jan. 9, 2010 (Kyoto)
A stunning day at the Golden Pavilion.

Catching goldfish in the Gion district. It's a popular game where children use flat paper nets to catch as many goldfish in a bowl as they can before the net breaks. This little girl dominated and caught at least a dozen...and kept going even after her net had a big hole.

Day 33: Jan. 8, 2010 (Tokyo)
Waiting for the Shinkansen (bullet train) to take us to Kyoto

Day 32: Jan. 7, 2010 (Tokyo)
Reflections at Hibiya Park

Day 31: Jan. 6, 2010 (Narita)
First meal in Japan