wendy's Reviews Page 9/28

One of Kyoto’s most iconic attractions, its most eye-catching feature is the vivid vermilion color, which makes the entire shrine look especially magnificent and solemn. This time, I headed out early in the morning before sunrise and arrived before the large crowds. Heian Jingu Shrine was exceptionally quiet in the early morning. Without the bustling tourists, I could better appreciate the impressive architecture and easily take clean, beautiful photos. As the sunlight gradually fell on the vermilion buildings, the colors became even more vivid, and every photo had that distinctive Kyoto feel. Getting up early was truly worth it for this rare tranquility!

Nanzenji Temple was built by Retired Emperor Kameyama and is one of Kyoto’s most iconic Zen temples. From the path beside the Keage Incline, you can walk gradually uphill to reach Nanzenji Temple. The entire temple has a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, with different scenery in every season. It’s a great place to slow down and fully experience Kyoto’s Zen spirit.

However, after visiting, I felt that Nanzenji Temple was somewhat similar to Tofukuji Temple—the grounds are very large and divided into many different buildings and attractions, and most areas require a separate admission fee. Each one costs around JPY 500–600, which really isn’t very visitor-friendly. Fortunately, the areas of Nanzenji Temple that are free to visit are actually very extensive. Even if you don’t pay to enter the buildings, simply strolling around outside and taking photos is already well worth it.

The red-brick arches of the Suirokaku Aqueduct have a strong ancient Roman European style, creating an interesting contrast with the surrounding Japanese temple buildings. It’s also one of Kyoto’s most iconic historic sites. With its red-brick arches, weathered walls, and natural scenery that changes with the seasons, it looks atmospheric from every angle.

The five-story pagoda, visible in the distance from the Tokaido Shinkansen, has always been one of the most iconic Kyoto sights to me. This time, I happened to visit when the cherry blossoms were in full bloom, and Toji Temple looked even more historic and beautiful against the sea of pink flowers. I especially recommend visiting Toji at night. As you slowly approach the five-story pagoda from the outer grounds, the towering wooden structure becomes more and more impressive. The impact is truly difficult to capture fully in photos. Photography isn't allowed inside the Kondo and Kodo halls, but the solemn Buddhist statues and temple atmosphere are well worth experiencing in person.

What also left a deep impression on me was taking part in the 6:00 a.m. sutra chanting at Miedo Hall. Chanting with the monks and other visitors,
and experiencing the temple at its purest in the quiet morning, was a very special and unforgettable Kyoto experience. Seeing the cherry blossoms during the day, viewing the five-story pagoda at night, and then ending the trip with early-morning sutra chanting. Visiting Toji at different times of day lets you experience completely different kinds of beauty.

Stretching from Ginkakuji Temple to Kumano Nyakuoji Shrine, this approximately 2-kilometer path is one of Kyoto’s classic walking routes. We were very lucky to visit when the cherry blossoms were in full bloom. As we walked along the canal, both sides were lined with blooming cherry trees, and the soft pink sea of blossoms complemented Kyoto’s streetscape beautifully. It was so beautiful that we didn’t want to walk too quickly. We didn’t plan anything in particular and simply took our time walking and enjoying the scenery along the way, which made it even easier to appreciate the charm of spring in Kyoto.

When visiting Gion in Kyoto, you definitely shouldn’t miss Hanamikoji Street, which is full of the old capital’s charm. This lovely street runs north to south through the heart of Gion and is lined with historic buildings that preserve Kyoto’s traditional character. Many of the old buildings have been renovated into restaurants, teahouses, and unique little shops.

You don’t need any special plans when strolling down the street. Just walking slowly and admiring the machiya townhouses on both sides is enough to experience the distinct atmosphere of Kyoto. Perhaps the most exciting thing about Hanamikoji Street is the possibility of an unexpected encounter. If you’re lucky, you may spot a geisha or maiko dressed in a kimono and walking gracefully, adding even more classical charm to the Kyoto streetscape.

When visiting Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, you definitely shouldn’t miss this iconic landmark—the Yasaka Pagoda. The historic Hokan-ji Temple stands quietly among the streets of Higashiyama. With the towering Yasaka Pagoda surrounded by streetscapes full of Kyoto charm, walking around here really makes you feel as if you’re in the ancient capital.

This time, I specifically chose to visit during cherry blossom season, and the cherry blossoms along the way added a touch of romance. Even though it was a weekday, it was still extremely crowded, with a constant stream of tourists. It was really difficult to take a photo without anyone in it. Still, the combination of cherry blossoms and the scenery of the ancient capital made me want to keep pressing the shutter and capture beautiful memories of spring in Kyoto.

When visiting Kyoto, Yasaka Shrine is always a classic spot well worth seeing. With a history of more than 1,300 years, it has stood here since before the capital was moved to Kyoto and is also the shrine where the Gion Festival originated. The ancient shrine buildings and strong Kyoto atmosphere make you feel the depth of its history as soon as you step inside.

This time, I happened to visit during cherry blossom season. Pale pink blossoms were in full bloom around the shrine, and the combination of the red gate, traditional buildings, and cherry blossoms felt so distinctly Kyoto and was truly beautiful. In spring, Yasaka Shrine has an added sense of romance and gentleness. You can enjoy the scenery as you walk, and every photo turns out beautiful. No wonder it’s considered one of Kyoto’s must-visit cherry blossom spots.

Maruyama Park, one of Kyoto’s famous cherry blossom viewing spots, is so beautiful during cherry blossom season that you won’t want to leave! The highlight of the park is the century-old “Gion Weeping Cherry Tree” standing beside the pond. When it’s in full bloom, its cascading blossoms form a vast pink waterfall. It’s one of Kyoto’s classic cherry blossom views and a famous photo spot for many visitors to the city.

When the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, their soft pink reflections appear on the pond, and together with Kyoto’s distinctive historic atmosphere, every photo captures the romance of spring. Maruyama Park gets quite crowded during cherry blossom season, but seeing the weeping cherry tree in full bloom in person is still well worth it.
If you come to Kyoto for the cherry blossoms, you really shouldn’t miss this place!

Walking into Ishigaki Island's largest limestone cave feels like instantly entering a fantasy world created by nature. Admission is about JPY 1,200, and it takes around 20–30 minutes to walk through the cave. Some sections are fairly narrow, and the cave is dim with damp ground in places, so keep a close eye on children. It's also not very suitable for strollers.

Along the way, you can admire natural formations such as stalactites and stalagmites. The farther you go, the more spectacular it feels, and you can't help but marvel at nature's craftsmanship.
Although the visit isn't very long, it's well worth fitting into your itinerary. Walk into the underground world yourself and experience a different side of Ishigaki Island's natural beauty!

When visiting Ishigaki Island, of course you should explore this historic "island kitchen." The market has all kinds of Ishigaki Island specialties, souvenirs, and local ingredients. It's a good place to walk around if you want to experience the atmosphere of local life.

I came on a weekday morning, and the entire market was fairly quiet. Most shops didn't start opening until around 11, with only a few preparing to open. The market is especially peaceful in the morning, so you can browse at your own pace without the crowds.

If you want to buy some Ishigaki Island specialties or experience the atmosphere of a local market, it's worth stopping by. However, I recommend coming closer to noon, when more shops will be open!