Japan Travel Guide: Kyoto
The third stop on our Japan tour was the stunning Kyoto. We hopped back on the Shinkansen (bullet train) to journey from Hakone. It’s the city of samurais and geishas, and while definitely more vibrant than Hakone, it’s still much more laid back than the bustle of Tokyo.
After looking like absolute train wrecks lugging a massive amount of luggage to our Airbnb, I quickly forgot about my boob sweat because the house was INSANE. The decor was gorgeous, we had all the necessary luxuries and even came complete with our own onsen.
We had a couple days to explore this gem and from its famous Buddhist temples to traditional wooden houses, there wasn’t a minute to be spared.
What to See:
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove - all crowds considering, one of my most iconic shots came from inside the Bamboo Grove. Reference above image. GIANT bamboo stalks line the path and it’s so stunning to walk through.
Monkey Park Iwatayama - we hiked to the top Arashiyama, where an open area was covered with hundreds. of. monkeys. You can snap pics of these free-roaming cuties, just don’t look them in the eye or they might get aggressive.
Kinkaku-ji - this is the famous Zen temple also known as the Golden Pavilion. Fun fact: the top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf. We accept.
The Fushimi-Inari Shrine - this is apparently the most important Shinto shrine in southern Kyoto. It’s famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates (you’ll definitely recognize this touristy tunnel), which is also dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice. Who knew?
Where to Eat:
Fortune Garden - we went here for dinner one night and had the best service. The cocktails were on point, too.
Ichiran - yes, I know it’s a ramen chain but I wasn’t going to rest until I got my hands on a simmering hot bowl. Be prepared to stand in line after placing your order through what looks like a vending machine. Once you get your ticket for what you ordered, you’re handed a piece of paper where you then customize the ramen to be exactly to your liking. Step right up to your solo booth and wait for the curtain to literally rise and ramen to be served. Verdict: 100% worth it.
Walden Woods Coffee - this chic coffee shop not only had great coffee + pastries, but the design was so unique and made you want to hang out for hours.
I wish we had more time in the beautiful city to explore every temple, eat at every restaurant and hang out in our badass Airbnb. I guess that means a return trip is in order.
Up next: Osaka!