My fave photo from my trip...and Faces in Gion // Capturing the people of Japan // Series 5

Walking around Gion in Kyoto is an experience. Especially in the spring, and especially on the weekends. Even though the crowds are insane it's worth making the trip to come see all of the people dressed in their kimono. Everyone is looking for that perfect instagram picture, or to stop at a temple or two to make a wish.

Yasaka Koshindo Temple

The little coloured balls in the photoabove are called “kukurizaru” - you write a wish on them to the good faith monkeys. If you give up something, your wish might come true. It's pretty near the “Kiyomizu dera” temple, so you can make a few stops in the Gion area and fill your camera.

Wandering the streets

We found that as much as visiting temples, just being out and about is part of the Gion experience. Grabbing a matcha ice cream or another more savoury snack and just spending time with friends.

The photo above the line to % coffee shop - possibly one of the best coffees I've had anywhere. Delicious. I didn't try to get in this particular shop, the lines were insane - as were the instagrammers taking pics of every angle of their cups and foam. I'll do another post on % eventually. It was that good.

Moments in the alleys

It's worth ducking down a few side alleys in Gion as well. The main streets are fun - but you can take a bit of a breather just by going off the main strip for a moment or two. You also see some more intimate moments, that if you're quick, it's a photographers dream.

My favourite photo

We were walking back to our apartment from the Gion area, and we spotted this woman looking nervously for her ride. It looked as if she had a gift for someone. A black limo pulled up, she got in and they were gone. The Gion area is full of interesting moments.

I really liked the photo below because it looked like something out of the past. Other than little touches like the blue sign, it could have been the 1940s during the war.

If you're ever in Kyoto - don't skip Gion. It's an incredible place. Temples, people, food, fun and lots and lots of walking. I can't wait to get back.