Kyoto has this quiet charm that reveals itself in its little laneways—narrow paths lined with wooden houses, simple doors, and tiny details that feel like stepping back in time. Every turn seems to lead to a hidden shrine, a tea shop, or an old doorway that has its own story. It’s the kind of place where even the smallest corners feel magical, calm, and beautifully preserved.

This is our second day in Kyoto and our first full day to explore. I’ve been so excited for this part of the trip because, from all the photos I’ve seen online, Kyoto looked like it would be my favourite. Now I finally get to see for myself if that’s true.

From where our coach parked, we walked through the town, passing by small shops and local stalls as we made our way to Arashiyama.

We walked past a few temples on our way to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. I’d forgotten to put on my headphones, so I wasn’t entirely sure which ones they were. Here are just little glimpses of wooden gates and quiet courtyards as we passed by.

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove looked just as beautiful as the photos I’d seen. Tall bamboo rising on both sides and a peaceful feel as you walk through. It was really crowded when we went, so it was hard to get a nice photo, but I still enjoyed the walk. Even with all the people, the place felt special.

Climbing down the uneven rocks brought us right to the calm Katsura River. The autumn colours were glowing around us, and a small boat drifted by so quietly. It felt like a little pocket of peace in the middle of a busy day.

Went back to where we were supposed to meet up and catch our coach.

But first… gotta have some Matcha ice cream and a cold drink.

After a few minutes ride we stopped by another shrine or two, the Chionin Temple and the Yasaka-Jinja Shrine just about 5 minutes walk from each other.

Then we finally arrived in vibrant Kyoto … the air rich with aromas from colourful food stalls, streets alive with people in traditional attire. I even managed to catch a glimpse of a geisha, quietly going about her day, though I noticed some people constantly following her. It left me feeling a little sad for her, seeing how little space she was given to simply be.

Our tour director then took us to the Pontocho-dori Street. The street corner signage says that this street extends for about 500m from south of Sanjo-dori Street down to Shijo-dori Street, and has become Kyoto’s preeminent cultural and pleasure district. It is also one of Kyoto’s most famous hanamachi, or geisha districts, and has been since the Edo period.

And then we were given free time to explore on our own.

This was in 8 November 2025.