Goodbye Kyōto, Hello Osaka

I anticipated Kyoto would offer a wealth of cultural and natural wonders, but what I experienced was beyond my expectations.

Soon after checking into my hotel, I ventured to the nearby Nishiki Market, where I tentatively began exploring the local cuisine. A glass of sake, strategically offered by the vendors as you enter their stalls, definitely eased me into the culinary adventure 😄.

On my way to the market, I stumbled upon a charming coffee shop named The Bridge. It was obviously Christian and served breakfast, so naturally, I returned there the next morning and was delighted to discover they hold Sunday worship services.

Can you guess where I spent my last morning in Kyoto?

It was incredible to witness how His Presence Church adeptly bridges cultural and language differences. The worship service featured songs in both Japanese and English, with lyrics displayed in both languages. Singing in English and Japanese simultaneously was surprisingly harmonious! The entire service, including prayers and the sermon, was bilingual. It was the perfect way to end my Kyoto stay—making new friends and enjoying a meal together. The sense of hospitality and community was truly heartwarming!

OK, now you know what I did on my first and last day, let's cover the time in-between and some of the amazing sights Kyōto has to offer.

I began with a walking tour led by the fantastic Cem from Izmir, organized by Japandas. We explored renowned sites like the Geisha District, GION, Chion-in Temple, the highly frequented Kongoji (Yasaka Kōshindō) Temple, and Sannenzaka. Cem not only highlighted these famous landmarks but also shared insightful cultural information and excellent food recommendations.

Determined to brave the crowds and the heat, I ventured to the renowned Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The effort was certainly worth it!

After a delightful lunch at SAGAN, another of Cem's recommendations, I hopped on a bus across town to see the Golden Pavilion, another breathtaking site. Check out my album for some stunning photos.

Afterwards, I was in need of some relaxation, which I found at a quaint bar overlooking the Kamo River as the sun set, accompanied by a refreshing glass of sparkling wine.

The next day, I had plans for Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Fushimi Inari Shrine. Both places are popular and recommended for early morning or sunset visits. Given their locations on opposite sides of town, I chose to start the day at Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.

There’s something magical about the tranquility of nature early in the morning before the crowds arrive. Plus, a temperature of 28°C/82°F was far more pleasant than 34°C/93°F 😀. With some time to spare after a wonderful breakfast at a local spot, I found myself with some time on my hands to just reflect on life as the Hozugawa River flowed by. That's not a luxury I used to have very often, and one that'll probably take some practice. I quickly get restless and have the urge to do something; ideally something productive.

Next on my itinerary was the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine. Although I had researched that early morning or sunset were ideal times to visit, I ended up visiting during the busiest time. And given the temperature delaying until sunset was not an option. Despite the heat and the crowds, the shrine’s grandeur was impressive. Fortunately, as you ascend further, the crowds thin out. For more pictures, check out my album.

Although I really like walking, I did not make it all the way up Mt. Inari. Too hot and too much walking for one day. You’ll have to visit to experience the summit yourself—or perhaps there will be a next time 😉.

Instead I treated myself to the most wonderful black sesame parfait in a cute little place close by 😋.

On my way back to the hotel, I stopped by the Kamo River and had a serendipitous encounter with a gentleman playing the flute under a bridge. We communicated through Google Translate and song: me Google translate, he, song 😂 It was fascinating to discover that despite the differences in our instruments, the way we play is quite similar. The things I learn on this trip!

Back at the hotel, I realized Tsuzuri Bekkan was just minutes away and had great reviews. I enjoyed an exceptional tempura dish and, surprisingly, some divine chicken wings. I'm not a big chicken wing fan, but all the locals around me ordered it so I had to try. OMG, they were divine! 

It was a wonderful way to spend my final evening in Kyoto, before heading back to the church service the next morning, I started the blog post with. 

Now, I’m in Osaka and will be heading to Davao City, Philippines tomorrow. But that’s a story for another post.

With gratitude,

Renate