Ginkaku-ji, also known as the Silver Pavilion, is a Zen temple located in the eastern part of Kyoto, Japan. Despite its name, the pavilion was never covered in silver; instead, it was intended to reflect the understated beauty and simplicity characteristic of Japanese aesthetics. Constructed in the late 15th century by shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa as his retirement villa, Ginkaku-ji was converted into a Zen temple after his death. The temple is renowned for its refined and tranquil garden, which includes the meticulously raked sand garden known as the "Sea of Silver Sand" and the "Moon Viewing Platform." The temple and its surroundings exemplify the Higashiyama Culture of the Muromachi period, emphasising harmony between architecture and nature. Today, Ginkaku-ji remains a testament to the elegance of wabi-sabi, the Japanese art of finding beauty in imperfection and impermanence, attracting numerous visitors seeking peace and inspiration

Kiyomizu-dera, officially known as Otowa-san Kiyomizu-dera, is a historic and celebrated Buddhist temple located in eastern Kyoto, Japan. Founded in 778 AD, the temple is part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage site. Kiyomizu-dera is renowned for its impressive wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, offering breathtaking views of the cherry and maple trees below, which bloom spectacularly in spring and display vibrant colours in autumn. The name "Kiyomizu" means "pure water," derived from the Otowa Waterfall that runs through the temple grounds. Visitors often partake in drinking the waterfall's water, believed to have wish-granting properties. Another highlight of Kiyomizu-dera is the Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking, where visitors seek blessings for successful relationships. The temple is also famous for its traditional architecture, featuring a large veranda supported by hundreds of wooden pillars.