Wagashi making and visiting temples in Kyoto

Another trip I was super lucky to go on with Osaka University was making Wagashi- traditional Japanese sweets-  at a shop called Kanshundo in Kyoto. The staff were really friendly and helpful- and really skilled so they made wagashi making look super easy (it wasn't). But it was really fun. After that, we had some free time to visit a couple of temples including the famous Sanjusangendo and Chishakuin. 

Yeah guys... I made that. Aren't they adorable? I'm ridiculously proud of how cute they are.

This one was meant to be a Hydrangea. It was the most complicated to make- we had to use a sieve like thing to make the little strands, and then artfully arrange them on top. After we were done,we were given green tea to try with our finished wagashi.

After Wagashi making, we had a little free time so we decided to visit nearby Sanjusangendo.

You aren't allowed to take pictures inside Sanjjuusangendo, but it's really a sight- with 1000 gold kannon statues all together in this huge hall. Definitely one that's worth a trip. The grounds are also really pretty.

After Sanjusangendo, we headed to Chishakuin because we had a little time to explore. The temple grounds were really quiet, as it's not as famous as Sanjusangendo. It was a really pretty temple, and a little more 'off the beaten path' but well worth a visit.

The hydrangea were in full bloom so it was the perfect time of year (June) to visit.

After Chishakuin, it started to rain a little so me and a couple of friends went to a teeny local cafe. The people in there chatted to us and were so lovely!! (Kyoto Ojiisan and Obaasan are the best <3) Thanks for reading!
-Amy xoxo

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