Kyoto | Japan Itinerary
Where We Stayed
Cross Hotel Kyoto—
Modern, clean, great amenities, and in a great location! Excellent value and highly recommend.
Shiraume Ryokan—
Located on the Shimbashi, one of the most picturesque and historical streets in Gion, this ryokan provided the most unique accommodation experience we’ve ever had. Originally an ochaya, a place where maikos and geishas lived and worked during the late Edo period, this ryokan transported us into the past during our stay but had ample modern amenities to remind us we were still living in 2019.
We enjoyed the poetic views of the Shirakawa Canal from our balcony.
DAY ONE
Weekenders Coffee—
Excellent coffee. Roasts their own beans. Tucked away in the back of a small parking lot. Standing room only.
Kyoto Katsugyu—
A popular chain in Kyoto that serves Gyukatsu, deep-fried cutlets of beef. Take advantage of the unlimited refills of rice, salad, and miso soup!
Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka—
A taste of Old Kyoto. Two pedestrian-only streets lined with wooden storefronts and restaurants that transport you back in time.
Yasaka Pagoda (Hokanji Temple)—
A distinct landmark that is visible various spots in Higashiyama. The last remaining part of the Hokanji Temple.
View of Yasaka shrine from Ninenzaka street
Kongoji (Yasaka Kōshindō) Temple—
A smaller but eye-catching temple. Worshipers write their wishes on colorful balls called kukurizaru and hang them at the site.
Kongoji Temple
%Arabica—
A famous Kyoto coffee roastery! Excellent lattes but roasts are definitely on the darker side.
%Arabica
Ishibekoji Alley & Nene Nomichi—
Another pair of well-preserved historical alleyways.
Kisshokaryo Gion Honten—
Chic dessert cafe. Must try the warabi mochi and parfaits!
Gion Shirakawa—
One of the most charming areas in Kyoto. Cobbled paths and wooden Machiya houses set against the Shirakawa River.
Tatsumi Bridge
L is wearing a Herschel fanny pack and Adidas ultraboosts.
Menbaka Fire Ramen—
Excellent service and delicious ramen. If you followed my Instastories during our travels, you probably saw the video of us in the restaurant sitting with looks of both terror and anticipation as the workers at Menbaka lit our ramen bowls aflame. Yes it’s a little gimmicky, but the fire adds a unique smoky flavor to the ramen. Highly recommend this spot.
DAY TWO
Fushimi Inari Shrine—
A Shinto shrine in southern Kyoto famous for its endless vermillion torii gates. To beat the tourist traffic, we arrived at the shrine at 6am, and the peaceful trek was so worth it.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Wearing a Nike fanny pack, Mango dress (sold out, similar here, here, and here), Gentle Monster sunglasses, and OV sneakers.
Secret Bamboo Forest at Fushimi Inari—
This bamboo forest is tucked away right off the main grounds of Fushimi Inari. Not as big or well kept as the more famous Sagano Bamboo Forest in Kyoto but much more peaceful.
Demachi Futaba—
All the mochiiii. This sweets shop was founded in 1899 and has perfected the art of mochi. You have to try their mame-mochi, which is a glutinous rice cake with black beans.
Nishiki Market—
We hit up this market multiple times during our stay when we wanted a snack. Treat yourself to local street food and delicacies sold by open-fronted shops.
Koe Donuts—
An artisanal donut shop that prides itself in using only organic and local ingredients. Delicious donuts (so many flavors!) and gorgeous interior to boot.
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