Adventures in Japan - Tokyo, Osaka, Kobe & Kyoto

DAY 1

• Arrived late morning via train from Osaka
• Gion (Geisha District)
• Pontocho Alley
• Philosopher’s Path 

DAY 2

• KYOTO Culture Walk
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
  • Beautiful, but not serene. I know, I know, I know ... I realize the irony in being a tourist that is NOT fond of overly touristed spots. It's a gorgeous photo op with LOTS of people, just be forewarned.
• Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple (Buddhist Temple)
  • LIFE HIGHLIGHT. I've labeled a couple of items in my travel journal / itinerary posts as "Trip Highlight", but it's important to distinguish that this temple located in the outskirts of Kyoto simply blows every other travel experience I've ever had out of this universe. We walked there from the bamboo forest listed above. It was a peaceful hour or so walk through sleepy areas of Kyoto. It was exactly what I needed after stumbling around from one overcrowded sight to the next. It was 'off the beaten path' and I loved every minute of our visit. Go there to find the most adorable happy-go-lucky moss covered statues and tranquility.
    

DAY 3

• Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine (Shinto Shrine)
  • Must-see infamous sight of thousands of bright orange torii gates sunbathing in the lush green forest. To say it was crowded is an understatment, but it was worth swimming through the sea of people.
• Nishiki Market
• Kanamean Nishitomiya Ryokan - Kaiseki (traditional multi-course Japanese meal)
  • • Last day of our trip was spent chilling in a Ryokan (traditional Japanese Inn). It was a costly sucker punch right in the wallet, but still a very cool experience.

DAY 4

• Kanamean Nishitomiya Ryokan - Breakfast