Expect to have hope rekindled.
Expect your prayers to be answered in wondrous ways.
The dry seasons in life do not last.
The spring rains will come again.
- Sarah Ban Breathnach
Expect your prayers to be answered in wondrous ways.
The dry seasons in life do not last.
The spring rains will come again.
- Sarah Ban Breathnach
A visit to Japan is definitely not complete without visiting its cultural and historic center – Kyoto. We took a bullet train or shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station. Our hotel in Kyoto is conveniently located near the station and it’s just a 10-minute walk.
Kyoto is in Kansai region and was the Imperial Capital of Japan. Due to its historic value, Kyoto’s treasured shrines, temples, numerous gardens and palaces are spared from air raids and atomic bomb during World War II.
Kyoto is in Kansai region and was the Imperial Capital of Japan. Due to its historic value, Kyoto’s treasured shrines, temples, numerous gardens and palaces are spared from air raids and atomic bomb during World War II.
HOW TO GET AROUND KYOTO?
Depending on how many days you have, you can buy an unlimited bus pass (1 or 2 days). Outside Kyoto Station, there is a kiosk where you can buy the pass to get around the city. We suggest to use the unlimited pass if you are on a budget. Please bare in mind that this pass only covers city bus route and does not include trains or subway.
Outside Kyoto Station are multiple bus stops that bring you to different tourist sights around Kyoto. Since our hotel is near Kyoto Station, it was very convenient for us to hop on and off to these buses to visit the sights. On the pass itself, you will see timetables on what time the buses come and go plus the bus numbers you will use to go back and forth. The pamphlet they will give you has all the information you need. (Note: After arriving at Kyoto Station, it is always advisable to ask the tourist information for a map so it’s easy for you to visualize and plan your route. The friendliness of the people at the tourist information center in Japan is notable.)
Like Tokyo, we carefully planned what to see and do to maximize our stay. On our first day, we planned to see the spots on the east side of Kyoto Station while on the second day we planned to see the sights west of Kyoto Station. If you have a lot time to kill, walk around Kyoto Station since its a pretty unique and modern looking building. The station has a department store and several restaurants inside. This station has massive steps and escalators. At night, they have a light show on the steps. It was pretty cool!
Outside Kyoto Station are multiple bus stops that bring you to different tourist sights around Kyoto. Since our hotel is near Kyoto Station, it was very convenient for us to hop on and off to these buses to visit the sights. On the pass itself, you will see timetables on what time the buses come and go plus the bus numbers you will use to go back and forth. The pamphlet they will give you has all the information you need. (Note: After arriving at Kyoto Station, it is always advisable to ask the tourist information for a map so it’s easy for you to visualize and plan your route. The friendliness of the people at the tourist information center in Japan is notable.)
Like Tokyo, we carefully planned what to see and do to maximize our stay. On our first day, we planned to see the spots on the east side of Kyoto Station while on the second day we planned to see the sights west of Kyoto Station. If you have a lot time to kill, walk around Kyoto Station since its a pretty unique and modern looking building. The station has a department store and several restaurants inside. This station has massive steps and escalators. At night, they have a light show on the steps. It was pretty cool!
Thankfully, this historic city was spared from bombings and because of that we are lucky to see and appreciate the old Imperial Capital till this very day. We absolutely love our stay in Kyoto.
And, here are the reasons why:
BECAUSE KIYOMIZU-DERA TEMPLE IS WORTH FIGHTING THE CROWD
This temple is one of the most celebrated temples in Kyoto. At the grounds, there is a lot to see from pagodas, beautiful gardens and Buddhist temples. If you are lucky, you will see Japanese people wearing traditional clothes. To reach Kiyomizu-dera, you have to walk up at Matsubara Dori for at least 15 minutes and you won't get bored checking out the shops and stalls leading to the temple.
Why is it worth it? First of all, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not only that, when it was built in 1633, not a single nail was used in the process. You will be really amazed how they did since it juts around a corner on a hill top. Plus, the amazing view from the top is equally amazing as the temple itself.
Tip: If you have time, eat at Okutan. One of Kyoto's specialty food which is hot tofu. Okutan was founded more than 375 years ago in 1635 and it is near Kiyomizu-dera.
Why is it worth it? First of all, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not only that, when it was built in 1633, not a single nail was used in the process. You will be really amazed how they did since it juts around a corner on a hill top. Plus, the amazing view from the top is equally amazing as the temple itself.
Tip: If you have time, eat at Okutan. One of Kyoto's specialty food which is hot tofu. Okutan was founded more than 375 years ago in 1635 and it is near Kiyomizu-dera.
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BECAUSE IN NISHIKI MARKET, YOU CAN ALWAYS GET SNACKS ON-THE-GO
Near Kiyomizu-dera Temple is Nishiki Market. This market is on a narrow alley consisting of small restaurants and shops. It is known to be "Kyoto's Kitchen". It offers culinary delights that Kyoto is known for. You can get different snacks that will satisfy your Japanese food cravings ranging from sushi, sweets, pickles, dried seafood and other specialty snacks.
Why is it interesting to visit? Nishiki Market has been operating for centuries and usually the people who owns the shop are operated by the same families for generations. And of course, if you travel for food, this is a no brainer destination to anyone who is hungry for a food adventure.
Tip: Do not leave here if you haven't eaten Takoyaki and Dashimaki. We will discuss this more on a different post.
Why is it interesting to visit? Nishiki Market has been operating for centuries and usually the people who owns the shop are operated by the same families for generations. And of course, if you travel for food, this is a no brainer destination to anyone who is hungry for a food adventure.
Tip: Do not leave here if you haven't eaten Takoyaki and Dashimaki. We will discuss this more on a different post.
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BECAUSE KYOTO TOWER IS AWESOME AT NIGHT
Kyoto Tower is the first thing you will see from the shinkansen when you arrive. This tower is the tallest building in Kyoto. In a city full of historic shrines and temples, this is a rare modern wonder for Kyoto. This was built during the olympics.
Why is it worth to see? There is a viewing deck at the top that offers 360 degrees view of the city and on clear days you might be able to see Osaka. If you have money and time to spare, why not visit the top deck?!
Why is it worth to see? There is a viewing deck at the top that offers 360 degrees view of the city and on clear days you might be able to see Osaka. If you have money and time to spare, why not visit the top deck?!
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BECAUSE SHIRAKAWA RIVER AT GION DISTRICT IS TOO BEAUTIFUL FOR WORDS
When we arrived here at night, it was just truly a "wow" moment. You can't help but say it out loud. If you are here during sakura season, you must visit this place especially at night. Often dubbed as the most beautiful street in all of Asia. It might be packed with tourist but you really have to see it for yourself.
Why is it worth it? Need to say more? Perhaps, spot a geisha here! Sadly, we did not see any on this trip.
Tip: You might not want to eat here since its quite touristy but there are certain few that serves really good food, just do a little bit of research.
Why is it worth it? Need to say more? Perhaps, spot a geisha here! Sadly, we did not see any on this trip.
Tip: You might not want to eat here since its quite touristy but there are certain few that serves really good food, just do a little bit of research.
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Stumbled upon this street while meandering at night and it was indeed a happy accident. Despite the rain that welcomed us, it didn't stop us from enjoying Kyoto. It just proves that, rain or shine, nothing can stop you from adventuring. Tokyo has an opposite vibe than Kyoto and its a totally different experience. When you visit Japan, all roads must lead to Kyoto if you really want to experience historic Japan. It truly has everything - good street food, historic sites, cultural shows and culinary delights. Your visit in Japan is not complete without experiencing Kyoto first-hand.
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