Kyoto, Japan | Exploring Higashiyama District

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On our 2nd day in Kyoto, despite the rain, we started our day early and headed east to Higashiyama district. Higashiyama district is a well- preserved old town of Kyoto, known for the traditional wooden houses with narrow alleys and cobbled streets.

Since Higashiyama district is one of the most beautiful spot in Kyoto, we wanted to capture our moment through photos. We booked a session with Rio in Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka through Airbnb experience.

We started our photo shoot in Ninenzaka area with Hokan-ji Temple serving as our backdrop.

Typically, shops in Higashiyama district open around 10AM. As it was still early, we seized the opportunity to take stunning photos in Ninenzaka Street without the crowd.

The rain began to fall while we were at Ishin No Michi Street. We used the weather to create a more cinematic shots with Hokan-ji Temple and Ryozen Gokoku-jinja Torii gate in the background.

Photo session in Higashiyama district of Kyoto, Japan

Unfortunately, as it continued to rain, we were compelled to seek shelter and wait for it to pass. Our only option in Ninenzaka area was the Starbucks, iconic because it was the first branch in traditional Japanese house setting. Photo below was taken later that day :D

Since we can’t control the weather, we made the decision to end our photo session with Rio and continue to stroll along Sannenzaka. We walked along Sannenzaka with a light drizzle.

Finally, the sun peeked as we reached Kiyomizu-Dera Temple. Kiyomizu-Dera Temple also known as the Pure Water Monastery, is a Buddhists Temple and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Even though we haven’t fully explored Higashiyama District, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka remain my top destination in Japan.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT KYOTO, JAPAN

The best time to visit Kyoto, Japan is March to May during spring. Do note that cherry blossom season is also a peak season in Japan.

WHAT ARE THE THINGS TO PACK TO KYOTO, JAPAN - WINTER EDITION

Clothes for cold weather
Jacket
Comfortable shoes/ sneakers/ boots
Backpack
Camera / gear
Powerbank
Toiletries
Universal Adaptor (For Filipinos, no need since Japan is using the same outlet)
Tumbler

HOW TO GET TO KYOTO, JAPAN FROM MANILA

The most convenient way to get to Kyoto, Japan from Manila is via direct flight to Kansai Airport.

HOW TO GET TO KYOTO FROM KANSAI AIRPORT

To get to Kyoto Station from Kansai Airport, there are several options: train, bus or taxi.

But the most convenient way is via JR Shinakansen Bullet Train via Haruka Line. It has reserved seats, overhead compartments and luggage space.

HOW TO GET TO KYOTO FROM TOKYO

The fastest and most convenient option is Shinkansen Bullet Trains. It is not the cheapest especially if you’ll book for a one-way ticket. Best if you avail the Japan Rail Pass or JR Pass.

HOW TO GET TO HIGASHIYAMA (NINENZAKA and SANNENZAKA) FROM DAIWA ROYNET EKIMAE PREMIER

To get to Higashiyama district from the area of Daiwa Roynet Ekimae Premier, go to Karasuma Nanajo bus stop and take 206 city bus. Alight at Kiyomizumichi bus stop. From there, walk for around 5 minutes to Ninenzaka.

KYOTO, JAPAN BUDGET AND ITINERARY

Based on this itinerary, which includes all the activities and restaurants covered in the blog, the budget for our second day in Kyoto, Japan for two person is around 11,600.00 Yen or around Php4,400.00. Total expense with a private photoshoot is Php15,000.00. See detailed budget and itinerary below:

NOTE: Rates indicated above may change.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN VISITING KYOTO, JAPAN

No Tipping.
Be on time.
Cash is king.
Avoid speaking loudly in public areas, particularly in enclosed spaces such as buses, trains, elevators, and similar environments.
While exploring Japan, consistently stay on the left side, whether it's on escalators, sidewalks, or streets. Except in Osaka.
People from Japan, form queues in bus lines, restaurants and elevators.
While there are numerous food stalls lining in the streets of streets of Japan, you should refrain from eating while walking.
Finding trash cans or sorting bins can be challenging when exploring Japan destinations. Usually, it is placed near vending machine, train stations and convenience stores.
Table napkin in most restaurants and coffee shops in Japan is waxed. I think it is not effective in wiping grease and oil.
When using public toilets in Japan, used toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet. Toilet paper in Japan easily dissolves in water unlike in other countries. NOTE: Only toilet paper. Properly dispose wet wipes, napkins and other similar items.

KYOTO, JAPAN TRAVEL TIPS

Secure your passport
Be sure to have a credit card for emergency
Download the following Google Apps: Google Maps for Navigating and Google Translate for basic translation.
Rent a pocket Wi-Fi or eSim in advance. This way you’ll have data as soon as you land in Japan. I’ve tried pocket Wi-Fi during our vacation and encountered no issues on connections or signal.
If you are travelling around Japan, buy the Japan Rail Pass or JR Pass in advance. For convenience, best to avail the Green Car option. For Green Car holders, best to reserve your seat in advance as well. You can buy the JR Pass here.
Since trash cans or sorting bins are not common in public places or streets of Japan, best to have a small plastic/paper bag for your garbage.
Travelling with luggage in Japan across multiple cities in Japan can be challenging. For a convenient experience, try luggage delivery service.
If you want to avoid crowd in tourist spots, schedule your visit early morning.
Exploring Japan often involves a significant amount of walking, so it's important to wear comfortable shoes.
Instead of buying bottled water, bring your own tumbler.