Day 2 (17 March 2019)

After checking out of our hotel in Osaka, we took the train to Kyoto. The last time we visited Kyoto, out of the 4 days we spent here, almost 2 days were wasted because I came down with a really high fever and had no choice but to rest in the hotel. This time, we were determined to see what Kyoto had to offer, and we weren’t disappointed! Kyoto has become my favourite part of Japan now, because it’s just so rich in culture and natural beauty.

Kicking off the programme for the day was Nijo Castle. Built in 1603, it was the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period. 

Inside the castle grounds, we spotted our first sakura of the sakura hunt: Kanhizakura, a.k.a. bellflower cherry.

After Nijo Castle, we headed to Philosopher’s Path, and soaked in the Rurouni Kenshin vibes. No sakura here, but still a beautiful and serene place. I’d love to come back during the peak of the sakura season, though!

Then, we made our way to Kiyomizudera (清水寺, literally “Pure Water Temple”).

The street was lined with a lot of shops selling Japanese souvenirs and food. We couldn’t resist stepping into a shop selling cream puffs. I can’t remember the name of the shop, unfortunately.

Up next was Hokanji Temple, also known as Yasaka no Tou, located in the historical district of Higashiyama.

After dinner, we backtracked down Higashiyama and Kiyomizudera for the Hanatorou light up. During Hanatorou, the streets are illuminated by thousands of lanterns, combined with flower and light displays. We were pretty lucky to be in Kyoto that period as it was the last night of Hanatorou.