Top 3 places to visit in Kyoto Area
We had gone to Kyoto, Japan, for a day trip and we can say it was well worth the adventure out of the main cities.
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1. Nishiki Market: Kyoto’s Culinary Heart
A 32-minute walk from Kyoto Station. It is a nice stroll down to the market where you can pass by Nidec Kyoto Tower and small local shops nearby. Arriving at Nishiki Market is a vibrant and bustling marketplace that stretches for five blocks in the downtown area. This market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, seafood, traditional Japanese sweets, and unique local delicacies.
2. Arashiyama District: Nature’s Tranquil Escape
Next on our list, we had to stop at the iconic Arashiyama District, located on the western outskirts of Kyoto, where it is home to the natural beauty and serene ambiance of the Bamboo Grove District. The towering bamboo stalks create a mesmerizing pathway that feels almost otherworldly. The bamboo stalks reminded us of olden movie shows where some train to get stronger. The overall trail didn’t take us too long but it was so nice to see the tall stalks of healthy bamboo in the forest.
The third photo on the right shows a Matcha Kouign Amann, filled with walnuts, that we purchased from Black Swan Coffee. It’s nestled in a corner near a pagoda. We decided to check out this place because of the long line, and we were intrigued by their colorful, flavoured croissants near the entrance. Seeking something unique, we opted for this pastry, which featured a matcha-infused interior and a charcoal-black exterior. We would highly recommend their pastries. As for their drinks, we tried a black latte (which is what they are known for), but it tasted like a regular latte.
3. Hokan-ji Gojunoto (Yasakanoto, Five Story Pagoda): A Glimpse into Kyoto’s Historical Splendor
When we wanted to visit Kyoto’s temples, we got lost on our way here because we had to take a bus. The Hokan-ji Gojunoto, commonly known as the Yasakanoto or the Five-Story Pagoda, is an iconic symbol of Kyoto’s historical and architectural heritage. Located in the Higashiyama District, it offers a glimpse into the elegance of traditional Japanese architecture. Visitors can admire the pagoda from various vantage points throughout the district. Climbing the wooden stairs to the top offers a panoramic view of Kyoto, with its mix of modern and ancient structures.