Fushimi Inari is an important Kyoto Shinto shrine dedicated to the Rice God. It features many red-orange torii gates and forest trails leading to the sacred mountain. There are many statues of foxes thought to be the Rice god's messengers. The Golden Pavilion Kiyomizu Temple is a Zen Buddhist shrine, originally a villa of shogun Yoshimitsu. It has burned down numerous times and the current structure was rebuilt in 1955. The top two floors are covered in gold leaf and the building is set on a reflecting pond. The temple grounds are well suited for serenity and meditation. Both sites are absolutely breathtaking and are a must-see if you are visiting a the Osaka-Kyoto area. Both sites are quite cerebral and their design thoughtful. The wooded trails help people to clear their minds and focus on their inner self.
















