Kyoto

Next on our Japan tour was Kyoto! I would say this was the most historic experience out of all the cities we visited in Japan. It’s rich with history, much quieter than Tokyo, and sound asleep by 8 pm. After so much walking in Tokyo, we were slightly relieved that everything closed early so we could head back and get some rest before doing MILES the next day! My mom and I spent about 3 days in Kyoto, and here’s everything we did:

Getting to Kyoto

We took the bullet train from Tokyo station which was about $85 USD and it was about an hour and a half train ride. Make sure you’re sitting on the right side of the train if you can, so you can get a view of Mt. Fuji! Once we arrived in Kyoto, we took the local train to our hotel.

The best method of transportation

Unlike New York, the trains run on time and are extremely clean and quiet! But in addition to that, there are unfortunately no train stops at every other square block. Tokyo is quite spread out, so the trains will take you to the general neighborhood, so it’ll get you close- and the rest is on foot.

However, the trains do get you where you need to go and are a very cost-effective mode of transportation! If you’re expecting to bop around all day, I would suggest getting a day pass which gives you unlimited rides for about $15 USD (pricing may be different now).

If you don’t want to get a pass, you can pay as you go through the turnstile with your Apple Wallet. Make sure you add a Suica Card to your Apple wallet for transportation and have that as your primary payment (you can also use this to pay at 711). Suica is great because you never know what credit card they will accept and it also converts your money to YEN.

Taxis are also a great option. They’re nowhere near as expensive as Ubers in major US cities, so if you’re tired of walking, a $10 Uber is worth it!

For Kyoto specifically, I would not rely on trains. Taxis and walking are going to be your best bet! For certain tourist destinations, you can get there via train, but they are not as widespread as they are in metro cities like Osaka and Tokyo.

Understanding the layout of Kyoto

For the most part, most of the things you want to see in Kyoto are relatively close in the same area which is easy to pop around! The only thing that is far is the Bamboo forest which will be on the far left of the map.

Areas to visit & things to do:

I loved how casual Kyoto was and frankly, I was overstimulated in Tokyo, so it was nice to feel in touch with nature and experience the serenity of all the temples.

One of the best things about Kyoto is how close it is to Uji and Nara. Uji is where matcha originated from, and while we didn’t get to stop by there, it’s definitely high on our list for next time! Nara was a fun day trip because of the deer! Yes, there is a giant park in Nara that is filled with deer that you can feed crackers to. They are respectful and will bow for crackers, but some are hungrier than others and might nudge you or chase your tail for more.

Favorite eats:

Maccha House - You have to try their matcha tiramisu! And the mochi ice cream! I was in heaven, it was so good.
Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu - This is like a pork katsu that you’re able to grill yourself over a small stone slab to your liking. One of my favorite meals I’ve had in Japan!
Nishiki market - this is a giant food hall market where you’ll find all of Japan’s most iconic street foods. Make sure to bring cash!

Where to stay:

Hyatt Place Kyoto - this was right next to the subway station which was super convenient! As for location, it is a bit further away but they offer breakfast there! Rooms are not as big as the ones in Tokyo, but perfect for 2 people.

What I didn’t expect & hacks you need to know

You will do the most walking you’ve probably ever done in your life
There is a pretty big language barrier, so have a translation app downloaded.
CASH IS KING! Make sure you pull out plenty of cash before you go.
There will be some amenities at the front desk of hotels you go to. These are free for you to take! There are no amenities in your room, so take what you need.
Women dress very conservatively here. No sleeveless or deep-cut tops. You can still wear what you want but personally, I felt extremely out of place wearing sleeveless and low-cut tops, so just something to keep in mind!
There are no public trash cans. Expect to hold your trash until you get to a 711 or your hotel.
If you are staying at a hotel, there is an option to valet your luggage to your next destination for very cheap. All you need to do is ask the front desk, and give them your luggage about 24 hours before you depart to your next destination and it will be available when you arrive! WAY better than lugging it around.
- +1 to this, there are not many escalators/elevators available in public transportation stations.
711 is going to be your best friend. Trust me.
Things do not open early in Japan. If you’re looking for breakfast to start your day, 711 is your best bet, or if you book a hotel that includes breakfast. Otherwise, you’ll have to wait until 10 am for cafes to open.

You can view my entire Japan itinerary of things to do and restaurant reccomendations, here.