We stayed in Kyoto for 2 days...
by cami2
We stayed in Kyoto for 2 days only, so we tried to see as much as possible within those 2 days.
Good shoes is a must for this activity.
Try to see as much temples as possible, because Kyoto has about 1600 temples/shrines, the population is about 1.5 million.
It's Japans old capital so you understand that it has lots of things to see.
Especially the Gion with the temples that start on the right hand, having the river behind you; all the region of Higashiyama-ku. To see the small hoses in the region above mentioned (Higashiyama-ku) where people lived and to enter their gardens, the most beautiful gardens I have ever seen, and they didn't mind.
Drive up to Mt Hieizan
by yukisanto
From the lookout point at Mt Hieizan, you can see the whole of kyoto city and the mountains beyond, including the mountain with the word "big" in japanese etched on it. (no kidding) You can also see the shinkasen (bullet train) tracks. It was real cold when we went, 5 degrees, and the wind added to the slight rain. At another look out point on the other side of the mountain, you get to see Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan. Beautiful sight. When you go up the mountain, you'll pass by these two stops naturally. There is even a hotel up there.
Mt Hieizan is actually located between kyoto and shiga, so one moment you're driving on the part in kyoto, and the other moment, you're in shiga. Which accounts for those confusing road signs (I thought I was in kyoto? or in shiga?)
Do note too that you have to pay toll charges along the way to the mountain.
Kyoto City Bus
by Ines28
The city bus lines connect all major sights in the city center. For only Yen 500 you can buy a one day pass that you can use as often as you like within the same day.
The pass is available at Kyoto City bus and subway information centers, transportation ticket dealers and some automatic ticket vending-machines. We bought our pass at such a machine and were a bit confused as there was nothing written in English, but it seemed to be the correct ticket. When using the pass for the first time, it must be stamped when getting of in the front , after that you only need to show it to the driver.
Always get in at the back and exit at the front. If you don't want to buy a one day pass, the flat fare within the city center is Yen 220 for adults and Yen 110 for children aged 6 to 12 years.
Obanzai in style on Sanjo street
by j-san about (next to Inoda coffee!)
A tiny and very popular spot. I found about it while surfing Japanese internet "hot new" food spots - the same way some other people I spoke to found it. This place is so small, perhaps 4 western style tables and 2 japanese style. Lunchtime is 950Yen, including: freshly grilled fish made just for you and brought to your table, miso soup, rice and the all you can eat obanzai buffet. As well as tea of course. Fantastic! Obanzai is traditional home cooked vegetables, usually featuring: lotus root, tiny potatoes, beans, japanese radish, pumpkin, sweet potato... etc. It's slow food at its best - the food mothers have been cooking for generations and is incredibly delicous, healthy and - usually not cheap! All the more reason why this is such a good deal. There is another all you can eat o-banzai place (called "Obanzai") just north of Oike street which costs 100Yen less and has more variety. The ambience at the latter is more like a health-food spot however, while this one feels very Japanese and has the addition of fish - and is central! I prefer this one, though I don't mind "Obanzai" either.
Toji Temple (East Temple)
by shintarojon
Toji Temple is a 57-m five-storied pagoda and the tallest pagoda in Japan. It was erected to the east of the southern gate Rasho-mon in order to protect the capital from the evil spirits.
Open : 9:00 am
Close: 4:30 pm
Admission Fee : 500 Yen
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Jingoji Temple Guardian
Ram at Horinji Temple
spice shop
At South Gate of the Toji Temple
