Previously on the blog, we shared to you The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Kyoto – Part 1 of our trip. You have probably listed down by now the specific places you want to visit but wait – there are still more! On this post, we will share with you additional Kyoto guide on destinations and experiences that you can try and visit.
KYOTO GUIDE PART 2
WITNESS THE GRANDEUR OF KINKAKUJI
Kinkakuji is a zen temple in Kyoto that is mostly covered in gold leaf. This temple was built to represent the aristocratic circle in Kyoto during the Yoshimitsu’s time. This impressive structure stands overlooking a large pond that mirrors the mountains, trees, and the sky.
We have specifically listed this on our ultimate Kyoto guide because this temple is spectacular in structure and a unique one.
Access: From Kyoto Station, ride a direct bus (either bus 101 or 205) for about 40 minutes for 23o YEN. Alternatively, you can take the Karusama Subway Line to Kitaoji Station in about 15 minutes at 260 JPY and take a bus (101, 102, 204, 205) to Kinkakuji.
Operating Hours: 09:00 to 17:00
Admission: 400 YEN
TAKE A LEISURELY WALK IN ARASHIYAMA BAMBOO GROVE
Do you recall a scene from your favorite Japanese series when a Ninja fights with a villain in a bamboo grove? The excitement and the feeling of walking under the shade of these bamboos can be likened to that. Arashiyama offers not only the bamboo grove to explore but also a great view of the river from the Togetsukyo Bridge. There are also some water activities that you can try like the Hozu River Boat Tour.
Access: From Kinkakuji, you can ride bus 59 for about 20 minutes for 230 YEN to the bus stop. Then you can hop on another bus going directly to Arashiyama. Alternatively, if you are coming from Kyoto Station, you can take on JR Sagano Line to Saga Arashiyama Station and take a 10-15 minute walk to the Central Arashiyama.
Operating Hours: None
Admission: FREE
VISIT NISHIKI MARKET FOR A GASTRONOMIC ADVENTURE
If there is one place you should visit to satisfy your gastronomic feat, we highly recommend that you head to Nishiki Market. In this place, you can find various food options from fresh seafood, pickled and seasonal foods, macha of all sorts, sushi, and many more! An adventure is only complete when there is also food involved. Be sure to include this on your Japan bucket list.
Operating Hours: 09:00 – 18:00
Admission: Free
Nishiki Market is just a block away to Gion, so you can opt to do some part 2 exploration around Gion after your food adventure.
It is very interesting how travels can shape our perceptions about the world and our thought process. As I took in the beauty of Kyoto and Japan in general, it hit me that there is prime importance is living the moment.
If you need additional tips and information about Japan, we recommend that you visit their official website.
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