Things to do in Kyoto

Fushimi Inari Taisha was a magical place. So beautiful for pictures. We went early evening before it got dark and it was perfect as not too many people. Highly recommended in Kyoto.

A swift ride up the river gorge. Try and get a seat on the RHS for better views but it’s only 20 mins and lots of tunnels so it doesn’t really matter. And be sure to get the river boat back down, it’s the best way back down. You don’t have to book in advance, just get the special direct bus from outside the train station, rock up and ride. Loved the whole thing - about 3 hours total round trip.

Having just recovered from a prolonged illness, I was so weak I could barely walk. The few days I spent at this hotel gradually restored my energy and spirit. It allows you to shed your fatigue and let your soul find poetic peace in its tranquility. All the lighting was soft and warm, not too bright to make you dizzy; the bed's firmness was just right to support your back, preventing soreness after lying down for a while; the meals were warm, easily digestible congee and side dishes; even the air had a mild scent, not irritating my sensitive respiratory tract. Every day I leisurely strolled in the courtyard, watching the wildflowers slowly bloom in the corner, sitting under the eaves basking in the sun, even my steps were light. There was no need to rush my recovery, no need to force myself to get better quickly. I stole a half-day of leisure, finding a long-lost sense of ease and freedom. Those few days I lived entirely at my own pace, without any pressure or urging, and my recovery was much faster than I had expected.

My Perfect Kyoto One-Day Walk (Tested & No Crowds!)*> 7:15am Start at Fushimi Inari Taisha! Go early, the 1000 Torii gates are empty and the light is magical for photos. Hike only to the middle, view is already amazing.> 9:30am train to Kiyomizu-dera, walk down Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka - super photogenic streets, rent a kimono here! > 12pm Hanamikoji & Yasaka Shrine in Gion, you might spot a Geisha!> 1pm Lunch at Nishiki Market - must try Tamagoyaki and pickled snacks.> 4pm End at Kamogawa River for sunset, locals sit by the river, very relaxing.> Tip: Buy JR 7-day pass, save a lot! I booked all tickets via http://Trip.com, easy QR entry.

Go here if you want to explore street food in Kyoto. These two alleys have food stalls and restaurants to fill your cravings for dango, daigaku, kobe beef, wagyu burger, matcha ice cream, etc.It's a good sidetrip when you're going to Yasaka Pagoda and Yasaka Koshindo Temple.

We enjoyed our time in this railway musem so much that we came again the next day! Tickets sold on tripcom are same price as walk in tickets, so easier to book online from app. There's shinkansen driving simulator you can join, but you need to register for the slot the night before , booking starts at 8pm on its website.