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Our Japan Trip – Kyoto
It was our 10th Day in Japan, and at this point, reality was setting in that we only had a couple of days left in Kyoto before moving to our final destination of this incredible two-week trip. We wanted to squeeze in a few more historical spots and some excellent food, so we explored as much as possible. For some reason, and for the first time on the entire trip, every time we entered a destination in Google Maps, it would only give us bus options and never show us train options. It was confusing but we just decided to go for it anyway.
Hot Take: We hated the buses in Kyoto. The buses in Japan are similar to any other city in the world, only very clean and super efficient. You just need to find the bus stop on the correct side of the road and board the bus to your destination. When the bus reaches your stop, you exit and swipe the same Pasmo IC card you use for the trains. Super easy.
However, the buses get even more crowded than the trains do. People pushing, pulling, and smashing. Most passengers were just trying to get to work, and it was a terrible struggle to squeeze off the bus when it was our stop. Talk about crowded and slow moving with dozens of stops. All we could do was laugh through how uncomfortable it was- And how ironic that we missed the trains SO much!
With so little time left, we set out to our first stop of the day- the famous Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion).
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Exploring Kinkakuji: The Golden Pavilion of Kyoto
In the cultural heart of Kyoto, Japan, Kinkakuji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a magnificent symbol of beauty and historical significance. This iconic Zen Buddhist temple, with its glistening golden exterior and serene surroundings, attracts millions of visitors worldwide each year. It was a beautiful day, and it felt like millions of people were there all at once. I’m so surprised we were able to get photographs without other people in them!
Origins and Early Years
Kinkakuji’s story began in 1397 when it was initially built as a retirement villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. Upon Yoshimitsu’s death in 1408, his wishes converted the villa into a Zen temple, which began its journey as one of Japan’s most cherished landmarks.
Fires and Reconstruction
The temple has faced its share of challenges throughout history. It was burned down several times during the Onin War, a series of civil wars that plagued Kyoto in the late 15th century. The most infamous incident occurred in 1950 when a young monk set fire to the pavilion, eradicating it. The current structure, rebuilt in 1955, faithfully replicates the original design, ensuring that the legacy of Kinkakuji endures.
Architectural Marvel
Golden Splendor
Kinkakuji’s most striking feature is its gold-leaf-covered exterior. The top two floors are adorned with this precious metal, which glimmers magnificently in the sunlight, creating a stunning reflection on the pond below. The pavilion’s golden façade is not just for show; it symbolizes the Pure Land of Buddha in Mahayana Buddhism, representing a realm of divine perfection.
Structural Design
The pavilion consists of three distinct floors, each showcasing different architectural styles:
- The First Floor (Hosui-in): This floor is built in the Shinden style, reminiscent of the Heian period’s aristocratic mansions. It features natural wood pillars and white plaster walls.
- The Second Floor (Cho-on-do): Designed in the Bukke style, commonly used in samurai residences, this floor is covered in gold leaf inside and out.
- The Third Floor (Kukkyo-cho): Inspired by Chinese Zen Hall architecture, this floor is entirely gilded and capped with a bronze phoenix ornament on the roof.
The Enchanting Garden
Surrounding Kinkakuji is a meticulously landscaped garden that enhances the pavilion’s beauty. Designed in the traditional Japanese stroll garden style, it features a large pond named Kyoko-chi (Mirror Pond) dotted with islands and rock formations. Each garden element is carefully arranged to create a harmonious and tranquil environment, inviting visitors to pause and reflect.
Visitor Information
- Opening Hours: Kinkakuji is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission Fee: The entrance fee is 400 yen for adults and 300 yen for children (prices may vary).
Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for avoiding large crowds. Each season offers a unique charm, with autumn’s fiery foliage and winter’s snowy landscapes providing particularly stunning backdrops. We were there during Cherry Blossom season and saw almost no blooms in late March.
While we truly enjoyed visiting this lovely place, it was just too crowded and too big of a process to get there to enjoy it thoroughly. We preferred other historical sites we visited earlier in the trip more than our experience here.
Unfortunately, we had to get back on a bus to our next location. This time, we chose to visit somewhere we knew would be low-key and less crowded but something thought would be charming to see. At this point in the trip, it was Easter weekend. So when I learned there was a shrine themed with bunnies, I knew we needed to see it!
Discovering Okazaki Shrine
Okazaki Shrine is steeped in tradition and local folklore and is known as the guardian of safe childbirth and child-rearing. Those of you who know us know we don’t have children, nor do we intend to have any, but we love history and animals, so of course, we wanted to check it out.
Founding and Early Significance
Okazaki Shrine is over a thousand years old and dates back to the Heian period (794-1185). The shrine was established in 794, the same year that Kyoto (then known as Heian-kyo) became the capital of Japan. Initially built to protect the city’s eastern side, it is dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the Shinto deity of the sea and storms, and his consort, Kushinadahime-no-Mikoto.
The Shrine of Rabbits
One of the unique aspects of Okazaki Shrine is its association with rabbits. According to legend, the area surrounding the shrine was once teeming with wild rabbits. Over time, these animals became symbolic of fertility and childbirth. Today, you’ll find numerous rabbit statues and motifs throughout the shrine grounds, making it a popular destination for those seeking blessings.
Rabbit Statues
There are numerous rabbit statues at the shrine, each with a unique pose and significance. Visitors seeking blessings often decorate these statues with bibs and other offerings. The most famous statues are the pair of guardian rabbits at the entrance, believed to protect the shrine and its visitors.
Okazaki Shrine is conveniently located in the Okazaki district of Kyoto, near several other attractions such as Heian Shrine and Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art. We really enjoyed visiting this small shrine after our hectic morning. It was such a calming environment, full of adorable rabbits that made you smile. I can imagine that a lot of people have found peace in this space over the years, and I could feel it in my heart.
By this time, we were hungry, so I started Googling what was nearby when I came across Toyo Sushi. Kyoto, renowned for its rich history, stunning temples, and vibrant culture, also boasts an impressive culinary scene.
A Sushi Gem in Kyoto
Among the myriad dining options, Toyo Sushi in the Okazaki district stands out as a premier destination for sushi lovers. Renowned for its exceptional quality, meticulous preparation, and warm hospitality, Toyo Sushi offers an experience that captures the essence of Japanese cuisine.
Rave Reviews
Toyo Sushi has garnered rave reviews from diners who praise the food’s quality and the overall dining experience. We had been searching for another tiny and personal dining experience, and this one sounded perfect, so we mapped it and headed that way, keeping our fingers crossed that they had seating available.
Toyo Sushi is conveniently located in Kyoto’s cultural and historical Okazaki district, near attractions such as the Heian Shrine and the Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art. It’s located off the beaten path and down an alley, and can be tricky to find. We were delighted to be welcomed in and seated at the bar right away.
The Dining Experience
Ambiance and Setting
Toyo Sushi offers a cozy and intimate setting that reflects the essence of traditional Japanese dining. The restaurant features a minimalist design with wooden accents and soft lighting, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. The sushi counter is the focal point, allowing diners to watch Chef Toyo at work and appreciate the artistry that goes into each dish.
The Master Behind the Sushi
Chef Toyo, a sushi master with decades of experience and a deep passion for his craft, is at the helm of Toyo Sushi. His dedication to traditional techniques, combined with a creative touch, results in authentic and innovative sushi.
Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients
Toyo Sushi prides itself on using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients. This commitment to quality is evident in every bite, making each dining experience at Toyo Sushi genuinely exceptional.
Menu Highlights
The menu at Toyo Sushi is thoughtfully curated to showcase a variety of sushi styles and flavors. We ordered the Sushi Set, which included Sushi, hot Matcha, and Miso soup. We also ordered the house sake; hands down, this was one of the most incredible-tasting meals of our trip.
Given its popularity and limited seating, we highly recommend that you make a reservation in advance, be patient, and have a back up plan.
Exploring the Enchanting Gion District
Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, is a city where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously. Gion is a living testament to Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage among its many historical districts. Known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the elusive geisha, Gion offers a glimpse into Japan’s elegant past.
The Origins of Gion
Gion’s history dates back to the Middle Ages when it developed around Yasaka Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most revered Shinto shrines. By the Edo period, Gion had become a flourishing entertainment district renowned for its teahouses and geisha culture. Today, Gion remains one of the best-preserved areas in Kyoto, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture firsthand.
Must-See Attractions in Gion
I highly recommend taking the time to stroll the streets of Kyoto. There is so much to see. Before traveling here, when I imagined what Japan would be like, it was exactly like Kyoto. It has a timeless charm and we loved it.
Yasaka Shrine
At the heart of Gion lies Yasaka Shrine, also known as Gion Shrine. This vibrant shrine, with its distinctive vermilion torii gates and lanterns, is a focal point for the annual Gion Matsuri, one of Japan’s most famous festivals.
Hanamikoji Street
Hanamikoji Street is the quintessential Gion experience. Lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, many of which function as exclusive ochaya (teahouses) and high-end restaurants, this street exudes an old-world charm. In the evenings, the street comes alive with the sight of geiko (Kyoto dialect for geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha) making their way to appointments, providing a glimpse into a world rarely seen by outsiders. Sadly, No geisha sightings for us this trip.
Shirakawa Canal
A short walk from Hanamikoji Street, the Shirakawa Canal area is another picturesque spot in Gion. During cherry blossom season, the canal area is stunning with its willow-lined banks, stone bridges, and traditional houses. Unfortunately they were not yet in bloom in late March.
Exploring Gion is like stepping back in time to Kyoto’s golden age. We fell in love. We walked for a couple of hours, stopping to shop or visit shrines along the way. Naturally, the later it got, the more we were ready to find dinner. We knew we couldn’t top the sushi we had for lunch, so we decided to check out a place we saw on Instagram. Described as the perfect place for a sunset in Kyoto, and we agree – K36 Rooftop Bar at The Hotel Seiryu, Kyoto.
Enjoying the Sunset at K36 Rooftop Bar
K36 Rooftop Bar, located on the fourth floor of The Hotel Seiryu, was an unforgettable experience. This sophisticated rooftop bar is located in the historic Gion district and offers breathtaking views, exceptional service, and a modern atmosphere.
The Perfect Setting
Perched atop The Hotel Seiryu, the K36 Rooftop Bar offers an unparalleled vantage point from which to admire the stunning Kyoto skyline. The bar’s modern, stylish design creates a chic and comfortable ambiance, making it a relaxing spot to hang out. With its panoramic views, you can gaze upon iconic landmarks such as the Kiyomizu-Dera Temple and the Higashiyama mountains, all while basking in the warm glow of the setting sun.
Since we were improvising, we didn’t have a reservation, although they encouraged them. We arrived 90 minutes before sunset and were given a table right away. The staff was attentive and welcoming, never making us feel rushed. We ordered cocktails and an appetizer, and took our time so we wouldn’t miss the sunset. The Spanish Prosciutto and Burrata with Seasonal Fruit were incredible, and the Half Margherita and Quattro Formaggi was unbelievably good, too!
It was gradually getting more cloudy, so unfortunately, we didn’t get an incredible sunset, but it was worth the view of the city and the excellent food and drinks. We walked back toward our hotel until we found a train station, then remapped our route, and it finally gave us trains to take back to the hotel for the night. Another incredible ending to an epic day. We only have one more day in Kyoto until we move on to Disneyland!
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I was wondering if a geisha sighting was a possibility. What an experience that would be!
Beautiful! All but the crowded buses lol.