From Ian Ropke, This month visitors will have a great chance to photograph children all dressed up in kimono, a special opportunity not to be missed. November is the month of the shichi-go-san (7-5-3) ritual for girls (seven and three years of age) and boys (five years of age). Shichi-Go-San is believed to have started in the Heian Period (794-1185). It was a ritual … [Read more...] about Shichi-go-san: A Special Ritual for Child Health and Longevity
What is “Deep Kyoto”? ~ Some thoughts from Lonny Chick
In recent months the Deep Kyoto Group on Facebook has really taken on a life of its own, with members sharing events, photos, info, opinions and even fun little quizzes! It really does feel like it has naturally grown into a vibrant community and a center of friendly discussion. One of our frequent contributors is Lonny Chick, who is perhaps better known on Twitter and Flickr … [Read more...] about What is “Deep Kyoto”? ~ Some thoughts from Lonny Chick
The Toy Film Museum – おもちゃ映画ミュージアム
The Toy Film Museum, opened on May 18th 2015 on a tiny little side street just off Koin Doori in the Mibu area. I ventured down there shortly after it opened to see what it was like. My general feeling after visiting is that the place has a lot of potential, but if you are not fluent in Japanese and/or super interested in old movies then this place isn't really for you. I am … [Read more...] about The Toy Film Museum – おもちゃ映画ミュージアム
Azaleas at Myoman-ji Temple
Azaleas, (called very prettily tsutsuji in Japanese), are blooming all over Kyoto right now, but we won't be able to enjoy them for much longer. If you get a chance I recommend going to see the display of azaleas at the entrance to Myomanji in northern Kyoto. Here are some pictures I took there last year. The grounds here are quiet and pleasant but the most striking … [Read more...] about Azaleas at Myoman-ji Temple
Fujinomori Festival & Kakeuma Shinji – Acrobatic Horseback Riding
Mewby and I caught this festival last year and for sheer excitement it can't be beat. I highly recommend you catch this event on May 5th. Earlier that morning (from around 10.30) we saw mikoshi (portable shrines) from Fujinomori Shrine carried in a parade to Fushimi Inari Taisha. It was raining but that did not dampen the spirits of the people carrying the mikoshi - they … [Read more...] about Fujinomori Festival & Kakeuma Shinji – Acrobatic Horseback Riding