Kitano Tenmangu Shrine | Review by BobbyJenny

It’s really hard not to be drawn to Kinkaku-ji in Kyoto! Its official name is Rokuon-ji, and its most iconic sight is the glittering golden Shariden reflected in Kyoko-chi Pond. It was still beautiful at first sight and is definitely one of Kyoto’s most representative views.

As you stroll through the garden, you can admire Kinkaku-ji from different angles. With the pond, greenery, and surrounding Japanese garden scenery, every angle offers a different feeling. The golden building is especially striking in the sunlight when the weather is nice.

Although Kinkaku-ji is a very popular attraction in Kyoto and gets quite crowded, once you enter the garden, you can still feel the elegance of a traditional Japanese garden. It’s nice to take your time walking around and taking photos, especially for first-time visitors to Kyoto.

For shopping near Kanazawa Station, Kanazawa FORUS is really convenient! It’s right next to the station and very easy to find, making it a great place for independent travelers to visit along with other spots around the station.

There are quite a few clothing, lifestyle goods, beauty, and restaurant options inside, so you can easily spend some time browsing. After exploring Kanazawa Station and Hyakubangai, you can come over to FORUS and continue shopping, making for a very smooth itinerary.

I really like shopping malls like this where you don’t have to travel far to shop. It’s especially convenient when you want to buy a few things or pick up some more souvenirs at the end of your trip. Overall, it’s also very relaxing to walk around without feeling like you’re rushing through your itinerary.

I happened to visit Kenroku-en in Kanazawa during the nighttime illumination, and it felt completely different from the scenery during the day. The lights reflected on the garden, ponds, and trees, giving the entire garden a quiet and romantic atmosphere.

Walking through the grounds at night, it wasn’t as bright as during the day, which actually made it easier to appreciate the depth and layers of the garden’s design. The lights reflected on the water were especially beautiful in photos, together with the surrounding trees and traditional buildings.

I originally thought Kenroku-en was already beautiful during the day, but the nighttime illumination gave it a completely different charm. Taking a slow stroll through the garden, enjoying the lights while experiencing the tranquility of Kanazawa at night, was truly atmospheric.