KYOTO

Any visit to Japan should have a stop in Kyoto. My efficient two days in Kyoto itinerary covered the remarkable history with its lush bamboo groves, temples, and shrines. Not to mention, Kyoto is also known for Uji Matcha- the highest quality Japanese matcha!

If you love all things made with green tea leaves, go to Itohkyuemon! Not far from the Kyoto train station. Very rich in matcha but not too sweet at all. It was all so good, I could not decide my favorite!

Getting to Kyoto from Tokyo is an easy 2 hours on the shinkansen bullet train (its the fastest and most comfortable route to take)! Once you get off the shinkansen, you will be in one of Japan's most famous train stations! It's a central hub that extends underground to the Porta Shopping Mall. I had the most delicious curry and egg tart dessert- it was to die for!

Mimikou- Located in the Porta Shopping mall in Kyoto. Yummy curry options (udon noodles and rice with plenty of veggie options)! Small restaurant with excellent service! A must if you’re in the area, you won’t be disappointed!

Bake Cheese Tart located in the Porta Shopping Mall in Kyoto! I’ve had a number of egg and cheese tarts in Japan, but these were amazing! Light and fluffy not overwhelmed with too much sweetness. Just melts in your mouth and super fresh.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Famous for over 10,000 torii gates (division between physical and spiritual worlds), Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most iconic landmarks in Kyoto; a sight to see. Its the most important shrine dedicated to Inari, Shinto (religion) god of rice. There are several paths to take on these trails, some being extremely crowded by tourists taking photos. Don't get disappointed because you will get to areas with no one around. It's pretty amazing to see all these torii gates, all donated by individuals or businesses. Fun Fact: There are many stone foxes around the path symbolizing Inari's messengers. They come in all shapes and sizes holding a symbolic item in their mouth. As you’re walking through, see how many foxes you encounter!

The person/ business that donated and the date of the donation are written on the back of each gate.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 

This is the place to listen to the soundscape of Japan. Walking through these soaring bamboo stalks is like being in another world. You have to experience this for yourself, no picture can capture the feeling of standing in the middle of this bamboo grove. Although it probably will be super crowded when you get there, its still so worth going to. There’s just one main path to the grove, which slowly ascends to the top.

Another place I would highly reccomend to check out while at Arashiyama is Tenryu-ji Temple. It’s ranked one of the top great zen temples in Kyoto. You start by taking off your shoes to explore the main hall while seeing the garden in the distance. Then your allowed to put shoes back on and explore the garden on foot. This temple is considered an example of shakkei (borrowed scenery) which is because the mountains of Arashiyama are perfectly placed into the design of the garden.

Walking through the bamboo forest. So magical.

Take the time to listen to the sound around you.

Inside the main hall of Tenryu-ji Temple

The example of shakkei (borrowed scenery)