Kyoto

At the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Yesterday we left Tokyo and arrived in Kyoto by way of the Shinkansen. The Shinkansen is like Amtrak back home, only it can max up to a speed of 200mph. A little over two hours later and a scramble through a clutter of tourists, we found our Airbnb for the next five nights.

I am still not very adventurous or curious when in comes to trying seafood! We both grabbed something in the subway plaza before heading on the train. Kiel's pretty sushi platter on the left puts my vegetarian Onigiri (from one of the many convenience stores in Japan; Lawson's, 7-Eleven) to shame.

View from the Shinkansen

Tofu & Strawberry gelato. Sounds weird but the creamy tofu paired well with the strawberry flavor, and was the perfect afternoon treat.

For dinner we checked out a local spot called Kendonya and had delicious Udon noodles. Somewhat chewy and flavorful, they hit the spot after a tiring day.

We slept for about 10 hours and then in the morning hopped on the JR Line (like BART in SF) to Arashiyama. Aside from all of the tourists, the bamboo forest was magical.

Bamboo with boo 😝


We ended up renting bikes which was a nice change of pace for us and a great way to travel around town and Kameyama Park.

And remember when I thought everyone just parked their bikes without locking them? Well it turns out most bikes have built in wheel locks, which is basically an O-lock mounted in the frame, immobilizing the rear wheel. Whadaya know?!

More noodles!

Hozu River 

A bunch of school children. They were singing songs, waving to us and shouting their names from the boats. 

We biked to Daikaku-ji, one of the oldest temples in Kyoto built about 1200 years ago. Taking our shoes off upon entry, we squeaked our way through the temple.

Unuisu-bari known as Nightingale floors, were designed so that the flooring nails rubbed against a clamp, causing chirping noises. The squeaking floors would prevent enemies from intruding.

Murasame-no-roka Corridor. The low ceilings prevented people from swinging spears or swords

Chokufushingyo den Hall

After a very sunny and warm day, we dropped off the bikes and head back on the JR train home, but not before picking up some snacks. We did a little beer tasting (I really just admired the pretty cans), and now we are about to head out to find some dinner. Good morning to you, Goodnight for us!