When visiting Higashiyama in Kyoto, besides the bustling Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Yasaka Shrine, there's another temple well worth taking your time to explore—Kodaiji Temple.
The first thing I felt when I entered Kodaiji Temple in summer was, "It's so quiet." Even though there were many tourists outside, as soon as I stepped into the temple grounds and walked through the lush green bamboo grove, everything seemed to slow down. The wind rustling through the bamboo leaves, together with the old wooden buildings, made it feel like traveling back through Japanese history.
Although summer lacks the splendor of cherry blossoms and maple leaves, it has an extra sense of peace and quiet. The pond reflects the green trees, and the garden scenery is very relaxing, making it perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll. When you're tired from walking around, sit down nearby, rest, and gaze absentmindedly at the scenery. Maybe this is the most captivating part of traveling in Kyoto!
Kodaiji Temple | Review by 王小鈞
Other Reviews by 王小鈞
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Kyoto Tower (Nidec The Kyoto Tower)
It is located right in front of Kyoto Station. It was designed in the shape of a lighthouse to illuminate Kyoto, and is the tallest building in Kyoto at 131 meters. It has been visited by over 32 million people since it opened in 1964.
When arriving in Kyoto, many people are immediately drawn to the tall Kyoto Tower rising before them as soon as they step out of Kyoto Station. It's as if it's greeting travelers, becoming their first impression of a trip to Kyoto.
This time, I didn't go up Kyoto Tower. Instead, I chose to look out from the rooftop of the Kyoto Station Building, and the view was surprisingly great! In the daytime sunlight, Kyoto Tower stood out against the cityscape. With the distant mountains and orderly streets, you can feel Kyoto's unique tranquility and historic capital atmosphere. -
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Philosopher's Path
A walking path leading from Ginkakuji Temple, one of the most popular sightseeing spots in Japan, to Kumano Nyakuouji Shrine.
When I came to Kyoto's Philosopher's Path, I had imagined a romantic scene filled with falling cherry blossoms. But since I visited in the summer this time, there were no cherry blossoms, though it had a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere instead.
I slowly strolled along the path beside the canal, shaded by green trees on both sides. I occasionally heard the sound of flowing water and birds chirping. It didn't have the bustle of a tourist attraction; instead, it felt like stepping into the everyday lives of Kyoto residents.
If I get another chance, I'd still like to come back during cherry blossom season to see just how beautiful the famous "cherry blossom tunnel" really is. -
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Kyoto Station Building
Kyoto station is attached to an enormous building which provides shops and restaurants, as well as a hotel and cultural center. The Cube Shopping Mall occupies the ground floor and two basement floors. In its spacious confines are shops offering a wide variety of unique souvenirs and specialty desserts from Kyoto, trendy fashion items, and interesting knickknacks.
If you come to Kyoto and don't know where to go, Kyoto Station is definitely a great choice.
I originally thought it was just a place to catch a train, but it turns out it's basically a huge department store and food court! You can buy souvenirs, shop, and eat all in one place. It's super convenient not having to keep going from place to place. I especially recommend checking out Kyoto Ramen Koji. It brings together all kinds of popular ramen shops, so you'll really have a hard time choosing. But lines are the norm during mealtimes, so come early if you want to eat there.
When you're tired from shopping, there are places to sit and rest, and you can start sightseeing as soon as you leave the station. No wonder so many people say, “Kyoto Station is an attraction in itself.” I completely agree! -
