If you come to Kyoto and don't know where to go, Kyoto Station is definitely a great choice.
I originally thought it was just a place to catch a train, but it turns out it's basically a huge department store and food court! You can buy souvenirs, shop, and eat all in one place. It's super convenient not having to keep going from place to place. I especially recommend checking out Kyoto Ramen Koji. It brings together all kinds of popular ramen shops, so you'll really have a hard time choosing. But lines are the norm during mealtimes, so come early if you want to eat there.
When you're tired from shopping, there are places to sit and rest, and you can start sightseeing as soon as you leave the station. No wonder so many people say, “Kyoto Station is an attraction in itself.” I completely agree!
Kyoto Station Building | Review by 王小鈞
Other Reviews by 王小鈞
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Kodaiji Temple
At the foot of Mt. Higashiyama, Kyoto, northeast of Hokanji Temple known for Yasaka Pagoda, there is a zen temple. After the death of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, his wife Nene (Kita-no-Mandokoro) moved from Osaka to Kyoto and retired into religion.
來到京都東山，除了熱鬧的清水寺、八坂神社，其實還有一座很值得慢慢逛的寺院--高台寺。
夏天走進高台寺，第一個感覺就是「好安靜」。雖然外面觀光客很多，但一踏進寺院，穿過綠意滿滿的竹林，整個人好像慢了下來。風吹過竹葉沙沙作響，搭配古老的木造建築，有種穿越回日本歷史的感覺。
夏天雖然少了櫻花與楓葉的華麗，但多了一份清幽。池水倒映著綠樹，庭園景色很舒服，很適合找個下午慢慢散步。逛累了坐在一旁休息，看著風景發呆，這才是京都旅行最迷人的地方吧！ -
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Philosopher's Path
A walking path leading from Ginkakuji Temple, one of the most popular sightseeing spots in Japan, to Kumano Nyakuouji Shrine.
When I came to Kyoto's Philosopher's Path, I had imagined a romantic scene filled with falling cherry blossoms. But since I visited in the summer this time, there were no cherry blossoms, though it had a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere instead.
I slowly strolled along the path beside the canal, shaded by green trees on both sides. I occasionally heard the sound of flowing water and birds chirping. It didn't have the bustle of a tourist attraction; instead, it felt like stepping into the everyday lives of Kyoto residents.
If I get another chance, I'd still like to come back during cherry blossom season to see just how beautiful the famous "cherry blossom tunnel" really is. -
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Osaka Tenmangu Shrine
This shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, known as the god of learning. The shrine has been known as "Tenjin-san of Tenma" by the people of Osaka since ancient times, and since its establishment in 949, people have entrusted it with all kinds of wishes, including those for plague, learning, and entertainment. During the exam season, the shrine is crowded with students preparing for exams.
Osaka Tenmangu is a famous shrine in Osaka and a place many students visit before taking exams. It enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the “god of learning,” so throughout the year, many people come to pray for success on exams and progress in their studies.
The shrine’s famous Daishogun Shrine is said to be a power spot, adding to the solemn and peaceful atmosphere of the grounds. Unfortunately, some areas were under renovation during this visit, so I couldn’t fully appreciate the shrine’s appearance, which was a little disappointing. Still, walking around, I could feel its rich history. I hope to visit again and see all of Osaka Tenmangu next time. -
