Monkey

Shrines, Parks and Monkeys

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February 22nd 2009
When we arrived at the guesthouse, they gave us a map of western Kyoto, with all the shrines, temples and gardens pointed out on it. Because we wouldn't have to spend a fortune on public transport to reach all of the places, we decided to see as much of it as we could today on foot. So, even with the heavens threatening to open, we headed out fairly early to our first port of call: Iwatayama Monke ... read more

Asia » Japan » Kyoto » Kyoto

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In 1603, a Tokugawa shogunate (military dictatorship) ushered in a long period of isolation from foreign influence in order to secure its power. For 250 years this policy enabled Japan to enjoy stability and a flowering of its indigenous culture. Fol... ... read more