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
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?
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!
And, here are the reasons why:
BECAUSE KIYOMIZU-DERA TEMPLE IS WORTH FIGHTING THE CROWD
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.
BECAUSE IN NISHIKI MARKET, YOU CAN ALWAYS GET SNACKS ON-THE-GO
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.
BECAUSE KYOTO TOWER IS AWESOME AT NIGHT
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?!
BECAUSE SHIRAKAWA RIVER AT GION DISTRICT IS TOO BEAUTIFUL FOR WORDS
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.
You might also enjoy:
Like what you read?
SHARE |
|