Hectic Tokyo
We started our trip in the old capital of Japan, Kyoto. When visiting Japan this is a place you must not skip; the ambience, the culture and the amazing sights makes Kyoto a #1 place on any itinerary.
DAY #1
We started in South Higashiyama. The streets around the Kiyomizu-dera temple are absolutely mesmerizing. On our first day we did have some rain, but that didn’t stop us, or the Japanese from exploring this place. What makes this place worthwhile is not only the old architecture but many of the locals are also dressed up in their yukata/kimono.
After strolling and visiting some lovely temples, we came across the Gion area. When you’re lucky you might spot a geisha here. After a long flight we were exhausted by now and headed back to our hotel.
We stayed at Econo-Inn, a place I definitely recommend; the price is good and it’s just a 10 minute walk from both Kyoto station and the main tourist area. They only accept bookings with a minimum of 4 nights.
DAY #2
We got up early since there was a lot to see and do. We started by taking the bus to the Nanzenji-temple. Close by from here is the Eikan-do temple, be sure to visit this one as it sure was my favorite. From here walk North along the Tetsugoku-No-Michi (Path of Philosophy), a peaceful walking path of about 2 kilometers which is especially nice during spring and autumn, but still worthwhile during the other months. At the end of the path lays Ginkaku-ji (Silver temple). Although no Silver can be found, this popular thus busy place has a nice zen garden. From here we took a direct bus to the even more popular Kinkaku-ji (Golden temple). Now this temple actually is covered in Gold. Although this probably is the most prestigious temple in Kyoto, I personally wasn’t that impressed, maybe because of the crowds or it could be the hassle with buses to reach this place.
Now it was time to go to Arashiyama and the bamboo forest; an enchanting path between meters high bamboo. My photo tip: make use of the curvature of the path to get that tranquil photo without any of the crowds.
Philosophers Path
Kinkaku-ji (Golden temple)
Bamboo forest
DAY #3
On the third day we took a side trip to Nara, just an hour train ride from Kyoto. In Nara Park you’ll find many deer roaming around. For ¥150 / €1 you can buy biscuits to feed these animals. Be careful, the moment you have a hold on these apparently delicious treats you’ll be surrounded by deer who all want a piece. While feeding, Seb even got bitten by one deer. The park also has a few temples and shrines to visit. The main temple is the Todai-ji with a 15 meter high Buddha inside. A walk through this is park is great for a half day trip.
On our way back we stopped at Fushimi-Inari, just a 5 minute train ride South of Kyoto with thousands of torrii gates. At the entrance a friendly guy at the information desk explained us the Japanese praying ritual. First toss a ¥ coin, ring the bell, bow two times, clap your hand two times, make a wish and bow once more. Ofcourse we had to try our luck with the divine. While walking through the site we passed through the many red torrii’s, unfortunately it started to pour down with rain which defeated some of our spirit while we were walking halfway up the mountain. As our shoes and socks slowly got wet we decided to walk back. We still an accomplished feeling we took the train back to Kyoto. It has been good.
Deer in Nara Park
Deer in Nara Park
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