Living Like a Shogun: Kyoto’s Must-See Nijo Castle

Visiting Japan’s old capital city Kyoto leaves you with no shortage of things to do and see. There are a plethora of temples and shrines to visit, museums to go to, and countless shops to check out. However, no trip to the old capital is complete without a visit to the old Tokugawa Shogunate’s stronghold, Nijo Castle in Nakagyo-ward. Nijo-jo is a sight to behold in the middle of Kyoto’s bustling city centre, not far off from the old Imperial Residence and the lively shopping districts of Shijo Street.

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Unveiling Kyoto’s Golden Marvel: Kinkaku-ji

One of the most famous spots to visit in Kyoto, Japan is located just down the street from my mansion. Kinkaku-ji 「金閣寺」, also known as the [Temple of the] Golden Pavilion, is truly an amazingly breathtaking sight to see at least once in every season.

While I do not make a habit of making the 5-minute walk up to the temple often, seeing as how it is swarming with crowded tourists and there is an admissions fee, I do try to visit the place once every new season to take photographs for personal and business uses. Continue reading →