Traveling to Kyoto, Japan, was an unforgettable experience, especially since I almost didn’t make the trip. Although I had originally planned to visit Kyoto, I was feeling a bit turned off by the big cities like Tokyo and Nagoya. So, I even considered venturing off to nearby small cities instead. However, I ultimately decided to go to Kyoto, and I’m so glad I did. As soon as I arrived, I was captivated by the city’s unique blend of ancient traditions and modern life. Kyoto offered a glimpse into Japan’s past, making it a perfect destination for anyone seeking adventure and inspiration.
A Luxurious Stay While Traveling in Kyoto
During my travel to Kyoto, I had the pleasure of staying at Piece Hostel Sanjo for four nights, and it was an incredible experience. Located in the heart of Kyoto, this state-of-the-art hostel is conveniently close to Kyoto Station. While it’s about a 35-minute walk, you can easily reach it in just 15 minutes by subway, making it super accessible.
From the moment I arrived, I was blown away by how nice and fancy this hostel was—definitely the best I’ve ever stayed at! I booked my stay in advance, which allowed me to get a great deal of just $30 per night for a bed in a dorm room. The hostel itself is huge and well-designed, featuring spacious storage lockers for guests’ belongings.
Piece Hostel Sanjo also provides amazing amenities, including a stylish bar and a large kitchen stocked with everything you might need. I especially appreciated the Dyson blow dryers available for guests, which added a touch of luxury to my stay.
Walking Tips for Your Travel to Kyoto
Here are my tips for travelers who enjoy walking and hiking, especially in a beautiful city like Kyoto. Although there is a good, reliable transportation system in Kyoto, I chose to walk to most places, including Fushimi Inari Taisha, which took me about an hour. Many of the places I visited were within an hour’s walk from each other.
While public transportation is convenient, walking gives you a different view and perspective of the city. When you travel through the streets of Kyoto, Japan, you can really take in the details that you might miss while riding a bus or train. For example, on my way to Fushimi Inari Taisha, I encountered a cute dog with his owner by his side. I couldn’t resist stopping to say hello to this precious dog.
Unfortunately, I learned that the dog was 11 years old but only had a month to live. Even though he looked healthy, the owner shared that his furry friend was sick. It was heartbreaking to see the young owner breaking into tears as he talked about his beloved pet. While the owner cried, the dog kept looking at him, as if to say, “It’s okay.” It was a very special moment that I would have missed if I hadn’t been walking by.
Top Four Must-Visit Attractions in Kyoto
During my travel to Kyoto, I visited several amazing places that I highly recommend. Each spot has its own unique charm and history. Here are the top four places I explored:
1. Fushimi Inari Taisha
Fushimi Inari Taisha is famous for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates. It’s open 24/7, and there is no fee to enter, making it accessible at any time. However, it does get crowded here, even on weekdays, so it’s best to visit early in the morning around 7 or later in the evening.
As I walked through the winding paths lined with these gates, I felt a deep sense of peace and beauty. The hike up the mountain takes about two hours, but the views and serene atmosphere are absolutely worth it. It was a wonderful way for me to connect with nature and experience Japanese culture while traveling in Kyoto.
2. Nishiki Market
Next, you can travel to the bustling Nishiki Market in Kyoto, a vibrant street market filled with delicious food and local treats. It can get quite crowded, but that only enhances the lively atmosphere.
Here, you can savor a variety of street foods, from fresh sushi to sweet mochi, with countless options to eat and explore. The friendly vendors and colorful surroundings made it a fun and enjoyable place to wander around.
3. Nijo Castle
Another popular place while traveling to Kyoto is Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases Japan’s rich history. The castle features stunning architecture and beautiful gardens that are truly breathtaking.
As I strolled through the gardens, I learned about the castle’s significant role during the shogunate period. One fascinating feature was the nightingale floors, which chirp when you walk on them, adding to the castle’s charm. The entrance fee is 800 yen (about $6).
4. Kiyomizu-dera
This historic temple is famous for its impressive wooden stage that extends over the hillside, offering breathtaking views of the city and surrounding nature. It’s ideal to visit early in the morning, as it gets very busy, even on weekdays. Although it’s smaller than Fushimi Inari Taisha, it’s just as impressive. The entrance fee is 500 yen (about $4 USD).
Dining Options While Traveling in Kyoto
Since I don’t eat meat and find it challenging to locate vegan restaurants in Japan, I cooked most of my own meals. However, I still enjoyed eating out a few times.
I primarily shopped at Life Supermarket, which offers a wide selection of ingredients and prepared meals. Otherwise, here are some of my favorite spots I discovered while traveling in Kyoto:
Coco Ichibanya
This restaurant is popular for its delicious Japanese curry, offered at a reasonable price. When you visit, be sure to ask for the vegan menu to explore your options!Green Rabbit Bagels
This cozy spot serves amazing bagels with unique flavors, such as matcha with white chocolate and roasted tea with chestnuts. These bagels are perfect for a quick breakfast and are very affordable, ranging from 200 to 350 yen (about $2).
A Must-Visit Destination in Japan
Traveling to Kyoto, Japan is an unforgettable experience. From its stunning temples to peaceful gardens, the city offers a perfect mix of history and beauty. Additionally, Kyoto’s rich culture and traditional streets make every visit special.
Whether you’re exploring the famous temples like Kiyomizu-dera or strolling through Nishiki Market, there’s something for everyone. So, if you want to experience the heart of Japan’s culture, Kyoto is the place to be!
