A Three-Day Kyoto Adventure: A Deep Dive into History and Nature

A three-day, two-night trip to Kyoto left us enchanted! On the first day, we started from Kyoto Station, with our first stop being Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Walking through Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka, the traditional streets and wooden houses exuded an old-world charm. We also enjoyed matcha ice cream and tofu desserts along the way. The stage at Kiyomizu-dera offered a breathtaking view of Kyoto city, which was unforgettable. Next, we headed to Gion to appreciate the geisha culture, and it was delightful to see visitors dressed in kimonos. In the evening, we dined at Pontocho, savoring authentic Kyoto cuisine, which showcased the city's delicacy and elegance. On the second day, we visited Kinkaku-ji Temple early in the morning. The golden pavilion reflected on the lake, creating a picturesque scene. We then went to Arashiyama, where the view of Togetsukyo Bridge was poetic, and the bamboo grove provided a serene beauty. We also took the Sagano Scenic Railway, enjoying the mountain and water scenery along the way. The autumn leaves painted the entire valley in vibrant colors. In the afternoon, we visited the Zen garden of Tenryu-ji Temple, which was tranquil and elegant, allowing us to completely relax. We stayed at a hot spring inn near Arashiyama that night, and soaking in the hot springs instantly relieved our fatigue. The third day was leisurely and pleasant. We visited Fushimi Inari Taisha, walking through thousands of vermilion torii gates, which were both magnificent and mysterious. We then strolled along the Kamo River, enjoying the peaceful riverside scenery. At noon, we indulged in fresh sushi, tempura, and Kyoto-exclusive nama yatsuhashi sweets at Nishiki Market. Finally, we shopped around Kyoto Station, bringing back many unique matcha souvenirs. The three-day trip was a perfect blend of culture and nature, and Kyoto's charm is truly unforgettable!