Kyoto in November 2010

Kyoto in November 2010

I heard so much about Kyoto being one of "the" places to go in Japan.
Finally got my chance in Nov 2010!
Flew to Osaka Kansai airport and took a train to Kyoto station.

Kyoto Station with Christmas tree all ready!

Iconic Kyoto Tower.

This tower is really useful as a focal point as it can be seen from afar.

Makes it easy to navigate the city using the tower.

I stayed at a small Ryokan near the railway station.
It was in a small street about 6 blocks away.
Very cute small room with modern amenities.

http://www.kyoto-ryokan-sakura.com/index_en.html

Around the corner was a traditional ramen place which had really tasty ramen!
Also ordered a side dish of tonkatsu.

In the morning, I found a chain restaurant which served inexpensive traditional Japanese breakfast.
I think I ate there for the next few mornings.
The breakfast meal only cost about 700 yen.

Kyoto is a relatively compact city with a city center and the eastern side with the temples are within walking distance.
Walked to this place called Shinkyogoku.
It is like an indoor shopping district selling food, clothing etc

This shop is amazing!
They only sell mushrooms.

Next up were the palace grounds.
Couldnt enter the palace though but there is a guided tour which needed to be booked way in advance.
Maybe next time!

BonBon Cafe!
It had a cute name so I stopped for coffee.
Very cute design art on the mocha. :)

All along the main river that runs through Kyoto, there are these big stepping stones.
Lets pedestrians easily cross the river.
Wonder if they get flooded in the spring though, when the rivers are probably full.

The start of the famed "Philosopher's Walk".
It is a beautiful tree lined street that runs along to the temples.
Extremely beautiful in the spring when the Cherry blossoms bloom.

Cute Teddy Bear family sitting on the side of the walkway!

Dinner was Udon noodles!
There was this traditional Japanese noodle shop at the end of the trail where I had the noodles.

Kyoto has plenty of charming side streets and alleys which look a lot more interesting in the night.
The following photos were taken in the "geisha district" but unfortunately I didnt see any geishas walking around.

Next morning, was time to visit more temples!
We are headed to the famous Kiyomisu temple.

 These tags were hung by visitors who write their wishes on these tags.

 It is quite a wonder that the balcony can support so many people!

Fan Shop!

 Accidentally stumbled onto the Ishibei Koji alley while exploring.
People say it is one of the most beautiful streets in Kyoto.

Lunchtime!
Tempura prawn noodles

Having left the traditional part of Kyoto, I continued on.
I really like this stream running alongside the road.
There are art pieces placed in the stream and makes the whole area look very artsy.

Had some unagi for an early dinner.
Had a charcoal grill taste to it which was quite nice.
It was expensive though!

The next day, I took a bus to the west side of Kyoto, near the Arasiyama area.
This area is famous for various temples and especially the bamboo growths.
The west side is more forested and definitely out of the city.
Lots of greenery around, very pretty and relaxing!

Hope you enjoyed reading!