After our adventures in New Zealand, Dustin and I set off for a quick three weeks in Japan. Upon arrival in Narita airport, while making our way to customs, we bumped into Sebastien! who joined us for two whirlwind weeks. We started off with several days in Tokyo, went on to Kyoto, overnighted in Kinosaki, then finished with a night in Osaka. From there, Sebastien sadly headed home (no more morning pastry sampling as part of our routine!), and Dustin and I headed to Ikuno for a few nights. Since folks have been asking, below are some photo highlights. For artistic and quality photography, check out Sebastien’s album on Google +.

Kiyomizu dera in Kyoto

Sake barrels as offerings at Meji jingu in Tokyo

Kinkakuji – The Golden Pavillion in Kyoto

Bamboo grove in Arashiyama

Water fountains like this are found at temples and shrines so that you can clean and purify yourself before you pray.

Torii gates at Fushimi Inari

What does the Fox pray?

Feeding wild deer in Nara

In addition to the deer crackers you feed them, the deer also seemed to enjoy Dustin’s shirt

Garden view from our room at a ryokan in Kinosaki

Breakfast!

Dinner at Yoko’s in Ikuno