Kyoto is where old Japan meets cool Japan—and somehow they blend together effortlessly. One moment you’re standing in front of a centuries-old shrine, and the next you’re wandering into a hip café serving impossibly fluffy pancakes or spotting a geiko gliding through lantern-lit streets. Kyoto isn’t just historic; it’s vibrant, stylish, and full of surprises around every corner. Ancient temples sit comfortably beside ramen counters, vintage shops, and tiny cocktail bars tucked behind wooden doors. The city has a way of feeling both timeless and totally modern at the same time. It’s the kind of place where the best plan is simply to wander, turn down interesting alleys, and follow the delicious smells drifting through the air. And somehow, between all the exploring, temple hopping, and snack stops, we still managed to get our 10K steps in every single day. ✨🚶♀️Check out the videos I have linked throughout to get a feel of the places.
🚄 The Smooth Ride to Kyoto
Our Kyoto adventure began with a smooth Hyatt shuttle ride from Hakone to Odawara Station, where the next part of the journey felt almost like a ritual of Japanese travel. First rule of riding the Shinkansen: never board hungry. So of course we picked up a beautiful bento box at the station, because in Japan even train snacks feel like a carefully crafted work of art. When the Tokaido Shinkansen glided into the station—sleek, quiet, and perfectly on time—it felt less like boarding a train and more like stepping into a beautifully orchestrated system. Within minutes we were whooshing through the countryside at nearly 175 mph, yet the ride was so smooth and comfortable it barely felt like we were moving. Outside the window, rice fields, towns, and mountains slipped by while we happily worked our way through our bento boxes. Two peaceful, precisely timed hours later… we arrived in Kyoto. 🚄
🏨 Home Base: Hyatt Place Kyoto video link
We checked into the Hyatt Place Kyoto, which turned out to be the perfect home base for exploring the city. Tucked into a lively but relaxed neighborhood and conveniently connected to subway and bus stops, it made getting around Kyoto incredibly easy. The rooms were budget friendly, modern, comfortable, and a welcome retreat after long days of temple hopping and alley wandering. Each morning they offer a fantastic breakfast buffet that gave us plenty of fuel before heading out for another day of adventure. In the evenings, the full bar was a great place to unwind and swap stories about what we had discovered that day. And perhaps most importantly for early risers and jet-lagged travelers—there was free coffee machines in the lobby (bless them). If you’re looking for a hotel that offers comfort, convenience, and still lets you feel like you’re staying in a real Kyoto neighborhood, this spot is an easy recommendation. ☕🏨
🌙 First Night in Kyoto: Lanterns & Hidden Alleys
Our first stop in Kyoto was the enchanting Pontocho Alley, one of the city’s most atmospheric streets. Running alongside the Kamogawa River, this narrow lantern-lit alley dates back to the 16th century and still carries the timeless energy of old Kyoto. Traditional machiya wooden houses line the street, hiding tiny yakitori counters, intimate tea houses, cocktail bars, and even Michelin-star restaurants behind sliding doors. It once served as a playground for geisha and samurai, and if you’re lucky you might even spot a geiko quietly gliding between appointments. In our case, we saw something even rarer—a taikomochi, a male entertainer known for music, storytelling, and comedy. Moments like that remind you that Kyoto always has a surprise waiting around the corner.
🛍 Wandering Kyoto at Night
From there we drifted into Shinkyogoku Shopping Street, a lively covered arcade that feels a little like stepping into a dream. The street is filled with cute shops, cozy cafés, and quirky places where you can sip drinks while surrounded by cats, dogs, and yes… even mini pigs. Japan never stops being delightful. At one point we even stumbled across a cake making machine—because of course Japan has dessert machines. Then, right in the middle of the buzzing street, we discovered a quiet temple where people were hanging prayer wishes while neon lights glowed just outside the gate. That contrast is Kyoto in a nutshell: ancient and modern existing side by side.
🍡 Nishiki Night Market
Just around the corner we wandered into Nishiki Night Market, often called Kyoto’s kitchen. While the main market is famous during the day, the side streets come alive at night with small restaurants and food stalls. The aromas alone were incredible—grilled seafood sizzling on open flames, fresh mochi being prepared, and the sweet scent of soy glaze drifting through the air. Kyoto at night has a kind of magic that makes you want to keep wandering just to see what delicious discovery waits around the next corner.
🍜 Hidden Ramen Gem
Dinner that evening took us to a funky hidden restaurant called Nishiki Market by Moon and Back, tucked just outside Nishiki Market. Finding it felt like a mini adventure. First you take a tiny elevator, then walk down a quiet hallway, and finally open a door that doesn’t even look like a restaurant entrance. Very Kyoto. Inside we found fantastic ramen and one of the highlights of the meal—beautiful wagyu roasted right at the table. The restaurant is also known for excellent vegan options, and the night we visited they were offering free karaoke. Because apparently nothing pairs better with ramen than spontaneous karaoke.
Day 2: Shrines, Pancakes & Castles
🍓 A Bakery Miracle
Sometimes travel luck is real. My favorite bakery in Kyoto called School Bus just happened to be right next to our hotel. Everything we tried was wonderful, but the custard strawberry tartlets were absolutely divine—one of those simple travel moments that ends up being strangely unforgettable.
⛩ The Thousand Gates
Next we hopped on the train to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of the most iconic sites in all of Japan. If you’ve ever seen photos of endless red torii gates winding through a forested hillside, this is the place. Thousands of gates have been donated by individuals and businesses over generations, creating long tunnels of brilliant vermilion that climb up the mountain. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the guardian of rice and prosperity, and fox statues—believed to be Inari’s messengers—appear throughout the grounds. Whether crowded or quiet, walking through the gates is breathtaking.
🌿 The Secret Bamboo Grove
Here’s a little secret many visitors miss. After passing through the famous Senbon Torii gates, keep walking up the trail until you reach another shrine area. Turn left, then watch for a small detour path on the right. Follow that quiet path into the forest and suddenly you’ll find yourself in a hidden bamboo grove. Tall bamboo stalks sway gently overhead, and when we visited it was almost completely empty. Nearby we even discovered a small dragon temple tucked away in the trees. It was one of those magical travel moments you never forget.
💴 Japan Travel Tip: 7-Eleven Saves the Day
A quick travel tip: Japan still relies heavily on cash in certain places, and you’ll often need coins for things like train station lockers. Thankfully 7‑Eleven Japan is basically a traveler’s survival kit. Their stores offer international ATMs, currency exchange machines, snacks, toiletries, and surprisingly excellent skincare. Honestly, some of their convenience stores are better stocked than full supermarkets.
🥞 The Fluffiest Pancakes Ever
Naturally we needed a snack break, so we stopped at ELK Pancake & Cafe. Japanese soufflé-style pancakes are next-level fluffy, and ours were no exception. We ordered banana pancakes, strawberry brûlée pancakes, and—because curiosity demanded it—miso pancakes. Yes, miso. And surprisingly, they were fantastic.
👑 Kyoto Imperial Palace
In the afternoon we joined the English-language tour at the Kyoto Imperial Palace. Once the residence of Japan’s imperial family, the palace sits inside a vast park in the heart of the city. Walking through its grounds feels like stepping into another era, with elegant gates, perfectly manicured gardens, and quiet courtyards that seem untouched by time.
♨️ Traditional Bathhouse Break
After a full day of exploring, we were ready for a little recovery. So we headed to Funaoka Onsen, a historic bathhouse beloved by locals. Inside we found multiple soaking tubs, jacuzzi jets, a sauna, outdoor baths, and even an electric bath—which yes, actually tingles. For 2200 yen, the three of us enjoyed a wonderfully relaxing soak that felt like the perfect reset.
Toiletries: Forgot something while traveling in Japan? No problem—7‑Eleven has you covered. Their convenience stores are basically a traveler’s safety net, stocked with everything from toothbrushes and razors to shampoo, shaving cream, and all the little things you didn’t realize you’d need. And if you love skincare, prepare to be impressed. Many locations have an entire section dedicated to cosmetics and beauty products, including rows and rows of Japanese face masks. Naturally, I had to try one. I’m not entirely sure how to make wearing a sheet mask look glamorous, but I can confirm my skin felt amazing afterward. So if you forget a toiletry while traveling in Japan, don’t stress—just pop into a 7-Eleven and you’ll be back to feeling fresh and fabulous in no time. ✨
🍵 The Best Kaiseki Dinner of My Life
Dinner that night at Kakyo was one of the most memorable meals I’ve ever experienced. We were seated right next to the kitchen and watched the chefs carefully plate each course with incredible precision. Kaiseki cuisine focuses on seasonality, balance, and presentation, and this meal felt like edible art. Highlights included a stunning seasonal vegetable plate, delicate fish soup, sashimi paired with melon, silky crab custard, yuzu fish with sticky rice, and melt-in-your-mouth wagyu. Even the non-alcoholic drink pairing was exceptional. My favorite was a non-alcoholic sangria I’m still dreaming about. The evening ended with dessert and a rice ball to take home—thoughtful, elegant, and unforgettable. I explained more about what a Kaiseki meal is in part 2, but for quick refresher: A kaiseki meal is a traditional Japanese multi-course dining experience that celebrates seasonality, balance, and beautiful presentation. Each small dish is carefully prepared to highlight fresh ingredients, subtle flavors, and the natural beauty of the season, making the meal feel as much like art as it is dinner.
Day 3: Temples, Geisha & Kyoto Magic
⛩ Kiyomizu-dera
Our morning began at the magnificent Kiyomizu‑dera, perched high above the city. The temple’s massive wooden terrace offers sweeping views across Kyoto, and the architecture alone is breathtaking. But what really stands out is the atmosphere—peaceful, grand, and timeless.
🏮 Wandering Gion
From there we wandered into the historic Gion District, famous for its traditional wooden buildings, tea houses, and deep connection to geisha culture. Walking these quiet streets truly feels like stepping into old Japan.
🍵 Sweet Stop in Gion
After exploring for a while we stopped at ZEN Cafe, a small, quiet, and beautiful café. They serve both traditional and modern Japanese sweets alongside tea and coffee, making it the perfect place to rest tired feet before continuing our wander through the neighborhood.
🥪 The Legendary 7-Eleven Sandwich
Of course we conducted another 7-Eleven taste test, this time trying the famous egg salad sandwich, a yuzu lemon soda, and pudding. Verdict? Shockingly delicious. One cultural note: it’s not considered polite to walk while eating in Japan. So we found a quiet bench by the river and enjoyed a little 7-Eleven picnic instead. Highly recommend.
💃 Learning About Geisha
In the afternoon we visited the Gion Kagai Art Museum, which beautifully explains the traditions of maiko and geiko. The exhibits showcase musical instruments, elaborate kimono, and details about the rigorous training required to become a performer. The highlight was watching two maiko perform a traditional dance, followed by a short film about Kyoto’s spring festival. It was a wonderful way to gain a deeper appreciation for this remarkable cultural art form.
🍚 Kyoto’s Most Memorable Eel
Dinner that evening was another standout at Unagi Kawatou, where unagi is served in a traditional four-step style. First you taste the eel simply over rice, then with condiments, followed by a version with warm dashi broth, and finally you repeat your favorite preparation. Each stage reveals new layers of flavor. The eel was smoky, tender, and incredibly rich, and dining inside a traditional two-story house in Gion made the experience feel even more special.
🌈 A Surreal Stop at teamLab Kyoto
Before heading off to Tokyo, we squeezed in one last Kyoto adventure at teamLab Biovortex Kyoto. If you’ve never experienced a teamLab installation before, imagine stepping inside a world made entirely of light, color, and motion. Rooms pulse with digital waterfalls, glowing shapes swirl around you, and suddenly you’re not just looking at the art—you’re part of it. Some spaces are fully interactive where you touch the walls, move through floating balls, and watch the projections respond to your presence. Other rooms invite you to simply pause and take it all in as waves of color and light flow around the space. The museum even provides boots and coats so you can wander through the “wet rooms” without worry, which somehow makes the whole experience even more playful. The space is enormous—we budgeted two hours and easily could have stayed for a third. And the best part? It actually looks like the photos. No filters, no exaggeration… just pure immersive magic. ✨
https://www.teamlab.art/jp/e/
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Kyoto surprised us in the best possible ways. It’s a city where you can wander from a thousand-year-old shrine to a neon shopping street in a matter of minutes, snack on perfect little desserts, soak in a historic bathhouse, and end the night with a beautifully plated kaiseki dinner. It’s the kind of place that rewards curiosity—turn down an alley, follow the smell of grilled food, or step through a temple gate and see what happens next.
But the adventure is far from over.
Next stop: Tokyo—a city that takes the energy dial and turns it all the way up. We’re diving into dinner at the wildly theatrical Ninja Tokyo, exploring the colorful streets of Harajuku, and standing in the electric swirl of lights and people at Shibuya Crossing. There will be a traditional tea ceremony for a moment of calm, more incredible food discoveries, and of course a full day of pure fun at Tokyo Disneyland.
If Kyoto felt like stepping into a beautifully preserved storybook, Tokyo promises to feel like jumping into the future.
And honestly… we can’t wait. ✨
Until next time,
Eat well. Move well. Wander well.
Lyn @ WanderLynTravel
Check us out on social media @ WanderLynTravel
_________________________________________________________________________
Kyoto surprised us in the best possible ways. It’s a city where you can wander from a thousand-year-old shrine to a neon shopping street in a matter of minutes, snack on perfect little desserts, soak in a historic bathhouse, and end the night with a beautifully plated kaiseki dinner. It’s the kind of place that rewards curiosity—turn down an alley, follow the smell of grilled food, or step through a temple gate and see what happens next.
But the adventure is far from over.
Next stop: Tokyo—a city that takes the energy dial and turns it all the way up. We’re diving into dinner at the wildly theatrical Ninja Tokyo, exploring the colorful streets of Harajuku, and standing in the electric swirl of lights and people at Shibuya Crossing. There will be a traditional tea ceremony for a moment of calm, more incredible food discoveries, and of course a full day of pure fun at Tokyo Disneyland.
If Kyoto felt like stepping into a beautifully preserved storybook, Tokyo promises to feel like jumping into the future.
And honestly… we can’t wait. ✨
Until next time,
Eat well. Move well. Wander well.
Lyn @ WanderLynTravel
Check us out on social media @ WanderLynTravel
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