Visiting Japan has always been a lifelong ambition of mine, filled with anticipation and excitement. It was a dream that had to be fulfilled, crossing off an item from my long-awaited bucket list.
The allure of this remarkable country, with its proud traditions and rich culture, has captivated me in various ways. From watching movies set in Japan to admiring breathtaking pictures online and even studying ancient Japan in school, my fascination grew more robust. And finally, the day arrived when I could proudly say I had made it.
Stepping off the Singapore Airlines aeroplane in June 2018, I added another destination to my ever-expanding list of countries visited. Japan, a land of enigmatic wonders, awaited me with open arms. Despite the weariness from the long flight, I was determined to make the most of every moment.
Although Tokyo beckoned, I couldn’t include the bustling capital city in my itinerary this time. Instead, I opted for Kyoto and Osaka, two contrasting cities in the Kansai Region of the Japanese island of Honshu. It was a chance to explore the enchanting beauty and discover the cultural treasures that awaited me.
So here begins the first edition of the Osaka – Kyoto Diaries, encompassing the first two days of my journey. It all started in Kyoto, a region exuding incredible beauty and a profound sense of history and tradition. The ideal location to embark on my long-awaited debut trip to Japan, which I will share in the upcoming edition of my travel diaries.
Are you Travelling to Kyoto for a cultural experience? Check for hotels on TripAdvisor.
Visiting Japan and exploring Kyoto straight off the plane.
Highlights of Osaka-Kyoto Diaries – Days 1-2 – Visiting Japan for the very first time
In 2018, I embarked on my inaugural trip to Japan, filled with anticipation and curiosity to delve into the vibrant cities of Osaka and Kyoto. Osaka, exuding a bustling and cosmopolitan vibe, juxtaposes Kyoto’s traditional and historical ambience.
Let me take you through the memorable highlights of my first two days in Japan, commencing with the spirited atmosphere at the Osaka airport and the enchanting train journey to Kyoto. Get ready to embark on a captivating adventure!
Getting to Osaka and Onwards to Kyoto
I arrived at Osaka’s Kansai International Airport, filled with anticipation, ready to embark on an exciting journey with Singapore Airlines. This renowned airline offers a significant upgrade from the budget airlines I usually choose while exploring Asia. Leaving behind any concerns about luggage, seating, and in-flight meals, I was eager to experience what this highly anticipated flight had in store.
The voyage was long but well worth it. Starting from Perth, Australia, I had a five-hour layover in Singapore, followed by an overnight six-hour flight to Osaka, Japan. Arriving in the Land of the Rising Sun, I couldn’t contain my excitement as I took my first steps on Japanese soil.
Although time was limited, I didn’t want to miss the opportunity to explore Osaka. Following my meticulously planned itinerary, I hopped on a train and went to Kyoto. Including any wait times, the entire journey from Kansai International Airport took approximately 90 minutes. And just like that, my adventure in Japan had officially begun.
Let’s kickstart this incredible journey—I’m thrilled to see what awaits me!
On the train bypassing Osaka onwards to Kyoto.
Accommodation in Kyoto – Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo
\
I stumbled upon this delightful boutique accommodation through user-friendly search engine websites. Its numerous positive reviews from previous guests immediately caught my attention, which spoke volumes about its stellar reputation.
Let me introduce you to the Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo, an exquisite boutique hotel nestled in a central location that effortlessly blends style and convenience. Its proximity to popular attractions in Kyoto, including the renowned Nijo Castle and vibrant Nishiki Markets, ensures your stay is filled with exploration and discovery.
Now, let’s talk about the Mitsui experience itself. As a solo traveller staying in a cozy single room, I found this hidden gem an absolute dream. Its immaculate cleanliness and attention to detail truly set it apart, while the affordability of a 3-star hotel in Japan made it even more enticing. And let’s not forget the pièce de résistance – an incredibly comfortable bed that ensured a truly restful night’s sleep, accompanied by the invigorating warmth of a refreshing shower.
Granted, one might argue that the room can be described as “tiny,” but let’s face it – when you have such a captivating city like Kyoto beckoning you, spending ample time within the confines of your cozy haven might seem like a waste. The Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo is an impeccable choice for those seeking to maximize their time exploring the enchanting wonders of Kyoto while still having a comforting abode to retreat to at the end of the day.
There you have it – a portrait of the Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo, where impeccable service, prime location, and a cozy haven converge to create an unforgettable stay in one of Japan’s most captivating cities.
A miniature garden set up at the Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo.
It Begins at Nishiki Market
On my first evening in Kyoto, I was fortunate enough to stumble upon the lively Nishiki Market, a bustling hub of activity that quickly became a significant highlight of my trip. As I ventured through the city, my eyes were immediately drawn to this vibrant marketplace, brimming with a lively ambience that was contagious.
Within the market’s sprawling expanse, a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds captivated me at every turn. The energetic atmosphere resonated with an upbeat vibe as people hurriedly moved in all directions, each immersed in their unique experience. It was a harmonious blend of locals and tourists, intermingling and revelling in the enchanting street market.
The aromas wafting through the air were an invitation to indulge in the culinary delights that lay within. From sizzling grilled meats to mouthwatering sushi and delectable crepes to steaming bowls of ramen, there was a treasure trove of Japanese cuisine waiting to be savoured. Among the myriad food options, one treat that stood out was the refreshing green tea ice cream, available in abundance and on various market corners.
Yet, the market’s charm extended beyond just the culinary realm. Scattered amongst the food stalls, many Japanese-style souvenir shops beckoned eager shoppers like me. Adorned with stylish chopsticks, traditional artworks, and many other goods, these stores offered a perfect chance to bring a piece of Kyoto back home, preserving the cherished memories of my holiday.
Reflecting on my experience, I couldn’t help but feel captivated by the unique atmosphere that embraced me during my short time at Nishiki Market. It served as a mesmerizing glimpse into Kyoto’s diverse tapestry and left me eagerly anticipating the adventures that awaited me during my rest.
Great food in Nishiki Market.
The Delightful Heian Shrine
On day two of my adventure in Japan, I eagerly rose from bed and stepped out into the early morning. The anticipation of exploring Kyoto filled my heart, knowing that the next few days would be filled with captivating sights and unforgettable experiences. As I ventured to the city’s eastern side, a plethora of magnificent temples, shrines, and awe-inspiring mountains awaited me, creating a truly picturesque landscape that seemed straight out of a fairytale.
A brisk thirty-minute walk from my hotel, or perhaps a bit more, led me to my first destination: Heian Jingu Shrine. Words failed to capture the sheer beauty before me as I approached the shrine. The advantage of arriving early meant that the crowds had yet to gather, allowing me to appreciate its grandeur in tranquillity. This secret to enjoying Kyoto’s attractions became clear – seize the opportunity to explore early, as the bustling crowds later make their presence known.
The main shrine area boasted exquisitely crafted Japanese architecture adorned with vibrant colours and intricate textures. Despite being a relatively recent addition to Kyoto’s history, constructed in 1895, the Heian Jingu Shrine symbolises reverence for the emperors who once ruled this ancient city. Four main buildings gracefully sit horizontally; outside the shrine’s grounds, white limestone flooring adds to its allure.
For me, the true highlight revealed itself as I strolled through the enchanting gardens that enveloped the shrine. While entering the main shrine required no admission fee, a small charge of 600 yen granted access to these mesmerising gardens, a fee worth paying. Serenely landscaped paths guided me through meticulously designed Japanese structures, serene lakes, and breathtakingly beautiful flora. Simply put, the gardens justified the admission price, taking my breath away with every step.
Click here to find the best tours in Kyoto and visit places like the Heian Jingu Shrine!
The Heian Jingu Shrine in Kyoto.
Visiting the Yasaka Shrine
As I made my way towards The Yasaka Shrine, I couldn’t help but notice that the crowds had significantly increased. The atmosphere was exciting as tourists, locals, and elegantly dressed Japanese women in Geisha attire filled the shrine grounds.
The Yasaka Shrine, a captivating Japanese structure, welcomes visitors for free and offers a delightful display of vibrant colours, unique architecture, and rich Japanese culture. While it may not quite reach the heights of the Heian Shrine, it certainly leaves a lasting impression and is well worth a visit, much like many of Kyoto’s other attractions.
Not far from The Yasaka Shrine, you’ll find the picturesque Maruyama Park and the magnificent Chion-in Temple. These nearby gems offer the perfect opportunity for a natural stroll, allowing you to soak in the serene ambience before moving on to the next breathtaking attraction just a short distance away.
The Yasaka Shrine.
The Picturesque Kodaiji Temple
On my second day in Japan, I had the incredible fortune of experiencing another captivating historical gem in Kyoto: the Kodai-Ji Temple. This enchanting Japanese structure, nestled harmoniously amidst the majestic mountains, boasts a mesmerizing blend of beautiful and uniquely designed buildings. The meticulously landscaped gardens surrounding the temple add to its allure and provide a serene backdrop.
Founded in 1606 as a tribute to Toyotomi Hideyoshi, Kodai-Ji Temple exudes an aura of rich history and profound beauty. To have the privilege of setting foot on these hallowed grounds is genuinely awe-inspiring. I can already sense that the memories forged here will be cherished for years as I carefully preserve the photographs I captured during my visit.
Out of all the temples in Kyoto, Kodai-Ji undoubtedly stood out as my personal favourite. When exploring this magnificent region, I recommend adding this picturesque sanctuary to your itinerary.
Click here to discover the best day trips in Kyoto, including stunning temples.
The Kodai-Ji Temple.
The traditional Ninenzaka in Kyoto while visiting Japan
Japan, a vibrant country steeped in culture and history, boasts numerous awe-inspiring tourist attractions that embody its rich heritage. One such captivating destination is Ninenzaka, an enchanting street market exuding traditional Japanese charm. As you navigate this bustling marketplace, you’ll marvel at the kaleidoscope of tourists, geishas, and friendly locals, making it a truly immersive experience.
A visit to Japan wouldn’t be complete without exploring Ninenzaka. Here, you’ll find many inviting shops and irresistible food outlets that will surely leave your taste buds tingling with delight.
But it’s not just about the delightful array of offerings — the surrounding Japanese-style housing adds an extra touch of allure, ensuring your journey through Japan is an experience to be cherished.
Enjoy a vibrant Kyoto City tour with Klook
and explore the region in style!
Ninenzaka Street.
The Stunning Kiyomizu-Dera
The crowds went to another level at Kiyomizu-Dera, and a lot of that had to do with the school students who were out and about on a field trip, and the students even enjoyed approaching me to be included in a photo or two. My humble self certainly felt like a celebrity for all but a minute; I was certainly flattered.
Kiyomizu-Dera temple, which means “pure water”, is said to be the most attended temple in Kyoto and judging by the crowds in presence, I would say that’s the truth. It’s believed to give you magical powers upon touching the pure water, and waiting in line suggests that the belief in that theory is strong. The most popular thing at Kiyomizu-Dera is to go to one of the three waterfalls and touch the particular water.
The Kiyomizu-Dera temple is a popular choice for all visitors; the temple is situated in the mountains, with lovely designed infrastructures and an electric atmosphere that seemed to have been brought over from the streets of Ninenzaka. One thing to know when standing inside the Kiyomizu-Dera temple is that it was founded in the year 778, which was over 1200 years ago. To be in a country with such a rich history is phenomenal.
Kiyomizu-Dera Temple.
A Walk Through Gion
When visiting Japan, many travellers want to see the famous geishas in Kyoto’s Gion district. Though I did not see any geishas during my visit, I did enjoy exploring the area and checking out the various shops and restaurants.
Gion is set up like many other street markets in Japan, with plenty of options for souvenir shopping and Japanese dining. These markets usually lead to major attractions, so if you follow the road of culture and Japanese-style housing, you’re likely to end up at another great destination.
In this case, the next stop on my itinerary was the Kennin-Ji Temple.
Click here to find the best tours in Kyoto and visit places like the Heian Jingu Shrine!
The streets of Gion.
Kenninji Temple
On the second day of my adventure, I immersed myself in Kyoto’s vibrant culture. The day was filled with excitement, from exploring two stunning shrines and three magnificent temples to wandering through charming street markets.
Among the temples I visited, Kennin-Ji stood out with its unique charm. Though relatively compact compared to the grandeur of Kiyomizu-Dera and Kodai-Ji Temple, Kennin-Ji enticed me with its rich history and captivating beauty. Founded in 1202, this temple seamlessly blends traditional architecture with a serene garden, enhanced by the surrounding mountains and its proximity to the city center.
What a delightful surprise to stumble upon Kennin-Ji as I returned to the hotel through the enchanting streets of Kyoto. I couldn’t resist the urge to explore another temple, thinking, “why not?” It’s always thrilling to uncover hidden gems.
As day two unfolded with its action-packed itinerary, I couldn’t help but eagerly anticipate what was in store for days three and four before I continued my journey to Osaka. Stay tuned for the next edition of my Japan travel diaries as I uncover more fascinating destinations and share the tales of my exploration.
Outside the Kennin-Ji Temple.
Get Your Free E-Book Today!
Stay in the loop with our monthly newsletter! Get expert travel tips and destination advice, and snag a free E-Book!
You have Successfully Subscribed!