Well, I just returned from Kyoto, Osaka and Kobe, and I have to say, the West of Japan is amazing. Often considered the most authentic an culturally rich region of Japan, I was skeptical of such verbiage until I actually experienced it for myself. Kyoto was amazing in many ways. from spotting Geisha at dusk on ancient cobblestone corridors to enjoying the cherry blossoms in Gion, Kyoto never failed to impress. Even the people of Kyoto were accessible and friendly (as noted in Kyoto Unplugged, which can been viewed on Facebook). While the cultural and UNESCO world heritage sites of Kyoto are truly breathtaking, I also take away from the experience the camaraderie of its citizens, culinary delights of its chefs and the creativity exhibited in its architecture.
One of the most memorable memories I have of Kyoto is the food. Fresh Soba at a stand up counter during rush hour. Genghis Khan Style lamb stir fry coupled with conversation with the locals. 100 yen Sushi that tasted wonderful. And this barely scratches the surface.
Equally magnificent were the must-seee sites of Kinkakuji (the Golden Pavilion), heian Shrine (with its adjacent garden) and the Path of Philosophy. Arishiyuma with its cherry blossoms and Nijo castle at night were also highlights that must be experienced only during late March/early April when the cherry blossoms are in bloom and the citizens of Kyoto (and the rest of Japan) are enjoying them in mass.
The nightlife of Kyoto was also enjoyable. While Tokyo, with its frenetic pace can quickly become tiring, Kyoto was more relaxed (though not quiet or boring). I enjoyed meeting local restaurantiers and bartenders who were quick to introduce themsleves and recommend places in their city t visit and hang out.
Overall, I definitely recommend a trip to Kyoto, regardless of the season. Obviously, Spring is the best time to go, but Autumn is a close second. Winter is a mystical time of snow falling on ancient temples, and onsens (hot springs) can be enjoyed regardess of the temperature. Summer is also a nice time to enjoy Kyoto's many publci places and parks, as well as its restaurants and night time options.
Well, that's all for now. I will post soon about my experiences in Osaka and Kobe, as well as more information on Kyoto. If you will travel to Japan soon, or are curious, let me know, or respond to this post.
-Dave
2 comments:
Excellent insight into this part of the world...
If I vacation in Japan, I would definitely want to visit Tokyo but now I would also want to experience Kyoto.
Would this be possible to do on a short trip...say one week? Or do you think it's better to choose one location and get the full experience of one area?
Good question. It is definitely feasible to do a Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka trip in a week, though 10 days would be better. That of course, depends on your schedule, finances, and preferences. Let me explain. Most travelers have a surplus of either time or money. For those who have one week and larger budget, 2 days in Tokyo and then a high speed bullet train(2 hours 20 min.) to Kyoto will allow you to enjoy both cities to the fullest. For this route the two days in Tokyo should be followed up with 4 in Kyoto and 1 on Osaka. Kyoto and Osaka are only separated by 45 minutes, so you can continue to stay in Kyoto and take a day trip to Osaka.
If you have more time (say 10 days to 2 weeks) then money, you can explore Tokyo a bit longer (3-4 days) and then take an overnight bus (8 hours) to Kyoto to save on travel (5000 yen verses 13,500 for the bullet train) and accommodation (you don't pay for the night you sleep on the bus). This cuts down significantly on costs, but adds time to your trip. What I did (and I recommend) is take the overnight bus to Kyoto and return from Osaka via bullet train. If you book at least a day in advance you can take the local bullet train (4 hours instead of 2 hr. 20 min.) for 10,000 yen verses 13,500. Accordingly, your total expense is 15,000 instead of over 30,000 (round trip bullet train + hostel/hotel).
Kyoto is definitely the gem of Japan and should not be missed. I had time, so I stayed a week and enjoyed not only the cultural heritage, but the local scene and culinary offerings as well. This was very rewarding, and I would not recommend doing Kyoto in less than 4 days for a full and relaxed experience.
Post a Comment