Ok, sorta running outta stuff to see in Kyoto so i finally broke down and went to the Kinkakuji temple. This is one of the most popular temples in kyoto because of its famous golden temple which is 3 stories high, the top 2 of which are layered with gold foil. I took the opportunity to bike there rather than take the bus, and also visited the neighboring ryonji and ninaji temples but both cost yen so i decided not to go in.
Despite the hordes of crowds, kinkakuji temple turned out to be better than i thought and as added bonus, there was a geisha strolling through the temple path too.
Theyre sorta cool cuz they actually pose for the pictures and they also have their own unique way of posing. It really is rather doll like. Sorta like the japanese dolls you see in the glass cases.
Also visited the Kyoto Botanical gardens which are pretty huge consisting of the usual japanese garden stuff, but also including a european garden, a little vegetable/practical plants garden, and a couple forested areas. A pretty good deal for 200 yen.
I can say for sure that i dont like riding a bike in japan. at least in the cities. Back in Okayama, it wasnt too bad cuz it was in the country side sorta, but out here in kyoto its pretty darn nerve racking weaving through pedestrian traffic and oncoming bikers. I think i will exchange my free 1 day bike ticket for some laundry detergent.
Had a couple Singaporean girls check in to jhoppers last night. 1 actually works for HP. Pretty interesting cuz one of them got a a huge argument with a Brit who just checked in (teaching english, been here for like 3 years, 25 yrs old) about various japanese topics. People need to chill.