Maiko, Kyoto's apprentice geisha, at Yasaka Jinja today celebrating Setsubun. First they do a little dance. Then they throw their lucky beans. Both the maiko and the crowds were awfully excited about those lucky beans... Setsubun is celebrated at Yasaka Jinja every year in both the 2nd and 3rd of February, though the festival proper is on the 3rd. To … [Read more...] about Maiko at Yasaka Jinja
Donald Keene on Kyoto: Then & Now
On New Year's Day the Japan Times published a wonderful article by the renowned Japanese scholar Donald Keene, reflecting on the changes he has seen in Japan over the past 70 years. In a fascinating account he tells of life in the immediate post-war years and after; a time of much hardship, but also, a golden age in modern Japanese literature and arts. In particular though, it … [Read more...] about Donald Keene on Kyoto: Then & Now
Snow on Shimogamo Shrine, Kyoto
The past couple of days in Kyoto have seen the city's heaviest snowfall in over 50 years - which of course makes for a lot of splendid photo opportunities. One of my essential visits each January is to Shimogamo Shrine, a shrine older than the city itself and my personal favorite. I make a point of coming here for hatsumōde (初詣 - a first shrine visit) every year. Here are some … [Read more...] about Snow on Shimogamo Shrine, Kyoto
Greeting the New Year in Kyoto
For the last post of 2014, let us return to a piece first written by our good friend, John Dougill in 2010. That year I followed John's advice by paying a visit to both Kurodani and Shimogamo Shrine on New Year's Eve, and so I am reposting some photos from that night too. It had been snowing quite heavily on the 31st, so Kurodani in particular was really beautiful; all dressed … [Read more...] about Greeting the New Year in Kyoto
Happy Christmas from Inari Mountain
Unfortunately, Mewby has to work on Christmas Day, so left to my own devices I spent the afternoon rambling over Inari Mountain. And what a wonderfully spooky mountain it is! Here are some pictures. Merry Christmas to you all! … [Read more...] about Happy Christmas from Inari Mountain
