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Kenninji Temple
The oldest Zen temple in Kyoto and the head temple of the Kenninji sect of the Rinzai school. In 1202, Minamoto no Yorie, the second shogun of the Kamakura Shogunate, donated the temple area to the temple and founded it with Yousai Zenji as the founder.
The oldest Zen temple in Kyoto. Ikkyu Sojun once lived here for five years. It's pretty quiet since there aren't many tourists.
Tenryu-ji Temple
This is the head temple of the Tenryuji sect of the RInzai school. It was founded by Ashikaga Takauji in 1339, during the early Muromachi period, in memory of Emperor Go-daigo, with Muso Kokushi (the eminent Zen master Muso Soseki) appointed as founding abbot.
You can really appreciate Japanese garden culture through the dry landscape garden here. The beauty is simple yet sophisticated.
Kaiyukan
Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2020, this aquarium is located in Osaka. The aquarium, which recreates the natural environment surrounding the Pacific Ocean, is home to a total of 620 species and 30,000 living things.
There are plenty of restrooms and seats everywhere inside. It's really thoughtful and convenient, especially for seniors who might get tired and need to rest.
Umeda Sky Building / Kuchu Teien Observatory
The 40-story, twin super high-rise was completed in 1993. The two towers are connected on top. In England, it was selected into the “Top 20” list of world buildings as a thrilling skyscraper. The beauty of the building itself is part of its popularity. On the 3rd floor, there is a gate for the elevators to shoot you up to the 35th floor.
This is the most iconic building in the Umeda area. The observatory offers amazing views of Osaka's vibrant nightscape. There's also a food court downstairs with all kinds of Japanese cuisine, so you won't feel lonely at night.
Osaka Castle Park
Nationally designated special historical site, Osaka Castle Ruin, and the surrounding area were renovated into an urban park. 13 buildings of important cultural properties including Osaka Castle Main Tower, watchtowers and gates dot the vast 261-acre premises.
The park is huge, and it's an uphill walk from the parking lot. I recommend buying a ticket for the little train instead...