Kyoto is the heart of Japan and it shows! We arrived by train and then hit the pavement. It’s unique, it’s spiritual, it’s a great time. Here’s what we got into during our visit!
Useful Links
Arriving in Kyoto
We arrived in Kyoto by the bullet train from Hiroshima. The train was easy again but there is transport desert around the Double Tree where we stayed. There are a lot of buses but sometimes it is frowned upon to take big luggage on the bus so a taxi may be best. We walked about 30 minutes to the hotel and it was ok.
Exploring Around Kyoto
Kyoto is very walkable. The river trail, the shopping mall, and the Osaka train all make Kyoto easy to move around. There are also several neighborhoods with small alleyways and little shops. A few places seem to be a solid walk away but once you’re at the outdoor mall you’re around a lot.
Fushimi Inari & Torri Gates
This was a great outdoor activity but it will get busy very quickly. I believe this area is 24 hours so you’re welcome to get there when you can but we chose to get there on the first train at 05:00. There were other people on the train doing the exact same thing as us so we were in good company. I’d recommend you get there first thing or last thing in the day because it was busy by 7 to 8am.
We hiked up the stairs, went through the gates and really enjoyed the hike and views. It’s so interesting to see the sea of orange gates. It was really something to see! We made it all the way to the top and I really enjoyed seeing the Shinto shrines and several adherents who were hiking, clapping, and praying on their way up the mountain. It was a great experience to see. Highly recommended!
Food & Drinks in Kyoto
music bar Beatle momo
Mono’s music bar was a highlight! It’s a must see like many of the music bars in Kyoto and around Japan! These bars are simple in their style – you have a few drinks, and a few snacks, and you let Momo spin the hits and see if you can get a request of your favorite song. The vibes were immaculate, the atmosphere was fun, and you NEED to make a reservation! See the link and make sure you plan to swing by and enjoy the hits!
Kura Sushi
What doesn’t sound funner than all-you-can-order sushi??? Kura Sushi is a conveyor belt spot where you can make a reservation and then you get seated and you pay by the order. They have it all – beer, sake, tuna, puffer fish and more. It was just fun! They make it easy to order, eat, drink, then have a fun time. I’m unsure if this is the best sushi or not but sometimes you want to just eat and have a great time…I had that here.
Gyoza Hohei
We had a late night eat at Gyoza Hohei. This place was something pretty interesting and special. It seems to have a Michelin past but it’s a tiny eatery with a lot of vibe. It’s cash only so be ready for that. The tiny gyoza spot has a few bar top spots and a few tables. It’s a basic menu and they obviously specialize in their gyozas. It was a fun late night hit and made for a tasty, post-bar, snack!
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