🇯🇵 Kyoto’s Beauty: Rising Sun Above the Crowds

Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, is one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities in Japan, if I dare say, the entire world. The countless shrines, temples and forests radiate a charm that few cities could rival. But this is not just my opinion. People the world over take it as gospel and flock to Kyoto. Helped by the weak yen, Kyoto these days is beaming with tourists, which can make it difficult to find the serenity that the pictures were luring us towards. I made a day-trip to Kyoto last October and definitely felt the same. The crowds definitely made for a less than pleasurable experience. But even so, I managed to find some sweet spots without crowds and the feeling was incredible. (Even then, taking the above pictures with my phone was no easy feat 📸) The rule of thumb I realised? Be willing to climb more and go further. 🚶♂️ These are the three main attractions I toured on my day trip: 1️⃣ Arashimaya Bamboo Forest 🎍 The quintessential Kyoto attraction. The sight is truly breathtaking, but entering any later than 9AM means you have to be prepared to face huge crowds. But not to worry, just walk all the way to the end and don’t get out too fast. At the end of the trail you will likely see a lake with many lotuses floating on it. This is a very photogenic spot. If you see stairs to climb further upwards, go upwards and you will not regret it. After that, on the way, you may spot many quaint cottages that truly give the vibe of the Japanese countryside. 2️⃣ Kinkaku-ji 🏯 Kyoto has over a thousand temples, and this was the one I chose to visit for my day trip. The main structure is an iconic golden building perched on a lake that is very picturesque. Unlike at the bamboo forest, there isn’t really much of a respite from the crowds here and they are constantly thronging. Still, enjoy what you can. The ice cream selling outside the entrance (you cannot bring it in) is really tasty. 3️⃣ Fushimi Inari Shrine ⛩ You probably have seen these iconic red pillars before somewhere, whether it is in your friend’s social media posts or in a Japan-themed movie. Walking through the pillars, the crowds are immense and it gets very cramped too. Unlike at the bamboo forest, the path is narrow. But this is a place that rewards patience. Just continue all the way and take side stairs up to places away from the beaten path. The scene I saw at sunset had a really spooky vibe to it! But do not get up too late, as the areas are not lit. #japan #kyoto #arashimaya #kinkaku-ji #fushimiinarishrine