In 2001, my friend and I ventured out to Kyoto. We didn't do much planning during that trip as far as I can remember, but we weren't really worried either. My cousin had a japanese friend that was able to take us around and guide us a bit. I didn't really use any tour books or anything like that, and frankly, didn't really feel the need for them at the time either. Kyoto was beautiful, even in the winter time when most places are closed for holidays. Hi-light of the trip, we tried going to a Geisha house, and promptly got rejected by a cute geisha in training. "No, sorry... house for patron only. You, nooo."
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