A common feature on more traditional buildings in Kyoto is the rain chain (kusari doi) that performs the function of a drainpipe, carrying water down from the rooftop gutters:
In addition to its design appeal, the
kusari doi also has functional advantages. Kyoto's climate, especially at this time of year, lends itself to sudden torrential downpours, and the lack of enclosed pipe means that the rain chain can channel large quantities of water downwards without clogging or backing up. It is also quite aesthetically satisfying to see (and hear) the water cascading down during a rain shower:
While wandering around our neighborhood yesterday morning I came across this natural echo of a
kusari doi, in the form of the tendril of a vine with leaves interspersed along it:
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