Kyoto

Santres yes, our number one recommendation is a Spanish/Japanese fusion bar. The food is great, and the staff is so friendly. They were eager to speak english with us and share stories.

Shiraume We stayed one night at this Ryokan and wish we’d stayed at least two. it was one of the most amazing experiences we’ve ever had. This is a must do and worth the price, which includes a traditional kaiseki dinner as well as breakfast (get the Japanese Breakfast!)

Higashiyama Jisho-ji perfectly manicured gardens that are very unique and worth the bus ride or long walk to get there

Nijō Castle - plan on walking around the grounds and the gardens. There is a tea house in a zen garden that is off limits unless you’re there for tea. Its over-priced, but worth it for the ability to sit in the garden.

Nishiki Market a touristy market street that is covered. Its crowded, but still fun to grab snacks as you walk through the stalls. Make sure you get bean paste balls covered in sesame seeds!

Donguri for okonomiyaki which is a delicious, savory pancake type dinner

Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama a great coffee shop that feels straight out of Brooklyn

Kiyomizu-dera Temple walk up the hill early in the morning before anyone is there and walk back down through the grave yard

Rengeoin Sanjusangendo is a temple with 1,001 statues. All the temples in Kyoto can start to become repetitive feeling, but this one is unique and worth an hour to visit

Good day trips to take from Kyoto

(check out the posts about each of these!)

• Nara

• Kobe