Traveling to Kyoto, Japan, turned out to be one of the best decisions of my trip, even though I almost didn’t go. At first, I wasn’t sure, especially after visiting busy cities like Tokyo and Nagoya. I even thought about exploring smaller towns nearby instead. But once I arrived in Kyoto, I was immediately enchanted by its mix of ancient traditions and modern life. The city gave me a beautiful glimpse into Japan’s history, and I’m so glad I didn’t miss it. Kyoto turned out to be the perfect place for both adventure and inspiration.
A Luxurious Stay While Traveling in Kyoto
During my trip to Kyoto, I had the pleasure of staying at Piece Hostel Sanjo for four nights. It was truly an unforgettable experience. Located in the heart of Kyoto, this modern and sleek hostel is conveniently situated near 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 and perfect for exploring the city.
From the moment I arrived, I was impressed by how stylish and upscale the hostel was. It’s hands down the best hostel I’ve ever stayed at! I booked my stay in advance for an amazing rate of just $30 per night for a bed in a dorm room. The hostel is spacious, beautifully designed, and equipped with generous storage lockers for guests to keep their belongings safe.
Piece Hostel Sanjo goes above and beyond in offering top-notch amenities, including a chic bar and a large, fully stocked kitchen for guests to use. One of my favorite touches was the Dyson blow dryers, which added a bit of luxury to the stay. It was the perfect home base for my Kyoto adventure!
Why Walking is the Best Way to Travel in Kyoto
Here are some tips for travelers who enjoy walking, especially in a beautiful city like Kyoto, Japan. Although Kyoto has a reliable public transportation system, I chose to walk to most places. Many of the city’s top attractions are within an hour’s walk of each other, making it easy to explore on foot.
Walking through Kyoto gives you a special view of the city that you can’t get from a bus or train. As you walk the streets, you notice little details that you might miss otherwise. For example, during one of my walks, I spotted a sweet dog with his owner in front of their house. I couldn’t resist stopping to say hello to the adorable pup.
The dog was 11 years old and only had a month to live. Although he looked healthy, the owner explained that his pet was sick. It was a heartbreaking moment, especially when the young owner began to tear up.
As he cried, the dog looked up at him with gentle eyes, as if offering silent comfort, knowing the pain his owner was feeling. It was a deeply emotional moment that I would have missed if I hadn’t been walking through the neighborhood. These unplanned, touching experiences are what make walking through any place so special.
Top Four Must-Visit Attractions in Kyoto
During my travel to Kyoto, I visited some amazing places that I highly recommend. Each one has its own special charm and history. Here are the top four spots I explored during my trip:
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. If you’re vegan, 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).
Why Kyoto Should Be on Your Travel List
My travel to Kyoto was an unforgettable experience, full of discovery and wonder. The city’s perfect mix of history and modern life made every moment feel special. From ancient temples to serene gardens, Kyoto offers a unique opportunity to connect with Japan’s culture and spirit. It’s a place that encourages you to slow down, soak in the surroundings, and explore hidden gems. I’m already looking forward to my next trip to Kyoto to see even more of what this amazing city has to offer.
In addition to Kyoto, I also visited Tokyo, Fujikawaguchiko, Nagoya, and Osaka. Each city offered something unique and memorable. If you’re planning to travel to Japan, be sure to check them out for some helpful tips and insights!
