marishiten temple

we found this ornate temple on the edge of gion. marishiten, the diety enshrined there, rides a wild boar [inu shishi] thus the temple was filled with sculptures of fine piggies. the offering trays hold konbu.

koshin shrine, gion

can you tell i was completely smitten with this koshin shrine, which is dedicated to the deity koshin who has the 3 monkeys as his messengers [remember them, the hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil guys?] they feature prominently here. so colorful and full of delight. the chains of hanging fabric emas have prayers and wishes written on them.

japanese spring wagashi

these wagashi [japanese sweets]are for late spring and evoke to iris and water, and the fresh green plum that are in the markets now. they are made from mochi and sweet white bean paste and are from a historic shop in gion.

maiko on the move

maikos in gion

maikos are young geisha-in-training. i'm a bit obsessed.

kyoto at night