On May 25th

Tomoko showed two people from South Africa around Kyoto. Before they arrived in Kyoto, I applied for the tour in Old Imperial Palace on behalf of them. And I left the permission card at the front desk before their arrival. The day before we met, they enjoyed the palace tour and walking along Philosopher's path.

On 25th, I met them at the hotel and start the tour with Ryoanji temple. I talked about zen and the meaning of the garden. Then they enjoyed the beautiful scenery of Golden Pavillion. Before coming to Japan, they learned a lot about the history of Japan, So I enjoyed talking a lot about details of the history and culture with them. 

After visiting Nijo castle, we had "Obanzai lunch" and went to Nishiki foode market.

As they did want to have tea ceremony, I took them to 300 year-old tea house in the garden of the temple. They really enjoyed the atmosphere and hospitality. 
The hanging scroll gave us a message that we should do oure best to live today. It was really lovely day.

posted by Tomoko