Number of reviews 5/ Number of likes 3
Hama-Rikyu Gardens
The Hama-Rikyu Gardens, also called “Hama Goten” during the Edo period, were originally the location of a villa owned by the Tokugawa Shogunate, but later on it was converted into the imperial villa. In 1945, it was bequeathed to the city of Tokyo and then opened to the public.
The moment you walk in, it's so peaceful. It's a huge contrast to the busy Tokyo city outside. The mix of tall buildings and the traditional Japanese garden is really unique.
Cross Hotel Kyoto
Located just off Kawaramachi Sanjō on Ryoma-dori, Cross Hotel Kyoto offers a perfect balance of comfort and style under its concept of “casual luxury.” With popular sightseeing and shopping areas such as Kawaramachi and Gion, as well as train stations, all within walking distance, it’s an ideal base for exploring Kyoto.
The hotel feels compact and refined, and the location is super convenient—it's not far to walk to sightseeing spots or the train station. The rooms aren't huge, but they're clean, comfortable, and have a simple, stylish design. The staff are really friendly and give off that signature Japanese hospitality. For Kyoto, the price is pretty reasonable. It's a great choice if you want easy access without spending too much.
Charcoal-Grilled Unagi Uotora
A long-established unagi restaurant founded in 1930. Located in Gujo Hachiman upstream of the Nagaragawa River, it features a machiya-style exterior reminiscent of a castle town. Grilled over carefully selected binchotan charcoal, the unagi comes with crispy skin and juicy, tender flesh. With a wide menu including unagi rice bowls and hitsumabushi, it’s also highly popular with locals.
The charcoal-grilled eel was incredibly fragrant, with crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat. Uotora’s sauce had the perfect sweet-salty balance and wasn’t too heavy. With rice, I seriously couldn’t stop taking bite after bite!