Kyoto a Contemplative Guide

I totally agree with the previous reviewer. This is the best and ONLY guidebook to Kyoto - the story of Kyoto's history through the story of a succession of temples and palaces, each of which typifies that period. Beautifully and gently written. Wonderful wonderful stuff. Tragically I've lost my copy. It shouldn't be so hard to find a new one. Tuttle, please reissue!!

The author has put a lot of TLC into writing this book and it shows. Aside from being a love letter to the city of Kyoto, it is a top-notch guidebook for anyone interested in exploring the temples of Kyoto. No other guidebook contains such carefully-researched and well-written descriptions of these temples. Though it was written decades ago, not much has changed at these sites, so don't let the date of publication deter you from using this book. I would highly recommend bringing this book along with the most recent edition of "Gateway to Japan" on your next trip to Kyoto.