The Hsu Times: Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto was the capital of Japan in 794. It has an old town feel, there are people wearing kimono everywhere. At first I thought they are locals, then I realized they are all tourists. The city has breathtaking temples, calming zen gardens, and century old palaces that aren’t disturbed by modern amenities like huge shopping centers.

We arrived Kyoto from KIX (Osaka airport) via JR Haruka express train. It took us 90 minutes.

When we arrive in Kyoto, we see a futuristic station with stories high ceiling. As you walked out of station, you will see the Kyoto Tower (131 meters= 430 feet)

People are really nice in Japan, I drop my scarf on the way to hotel, and the people behind me chase after me to give it to me.

We checked in Dormy Inn in Kyoto

- 5 minutes walk from Kyoto station

- Nice onsen

- Free ramen from 9-11pm

- Room is ok (kind of small, feel like tiny house)

We ate at Porta (restaurants down in the basement from the station.)

We spent the next day taking the Kyoto and Nara tour

Nijo Castle

Built in 1603, used to be home to shogun Edo period. You take off your shoes to go inside, the most interesting feature is the famous nightingale floors, which makes sqeaking sounds so that intruders could never sneak in. Once you exit the palace you will come to a beautiful garden with ponds, rocks, and trees.

Golden Pavilion

Bus then took us to Kinkakuji, commonly known as the Golden Pavilion due to its bright yellow façade. The 3 story temple sits on a quiet pond with green forest surrounds the temple, making it a picturesque scene. Walk along the path you will see people throw coins at statue for good luck.

Kyoto Imperial Palace

This is where prince and princess stay when visit Kyoto. You can’t go inside, but stroll outside you can see nice garden.

Nara

The bus then took us to Nara (1 hour from Kyoto)

Todaiji Temple/Nara Park

Our tour guide took us directly to see Budda first, he says don’t get distracted from the deer (oh deer). After we see the Budda, then we went out to get deer food and feed the deer. One side note, who picks up the deer poop? the worker, insects, or the tour guide?