Kyoto Kiyomizu-dera Temple | You really have to visit when you come to Kyoto ⛩️🇯🇵
If you can only choose a few places to visit in Kyoto, I think Kiyomizu-dera Temple is definitely worth adding to your itinerary.
Especially if it’s your first time in Kyoto, seeing the ancient temple, people wearing kimono, and the Kyoto cityscape really makes you feel like, “Did I travel back in time?” 😂
And Kiyomizu-dera isn’t just a single temple to see. Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, which you walk through on the way up from the foot of the hill, are themselves great for exploring and taking photos.
Mt. Otowa Kiyomizu-dera Temple | Review by Do
Other Reviews by Do
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Dotonbori
Crab, octopus, cow, crane….these are just a few of the oversized 3D signboards that make up the look and feel of the bustling Dotonbori Area. Its packed with a number of eateries along the northern Dotonbori River and main street along its southern side.
👟 It’s not just about buying things—walking around and browsing is fun in itself
What makes Shinsaibashi special is its lively Osaka atmosphere.
The streets are crowded and packed with shops, and you’ll keep seeing stores with different styles as you walk through the shopping arcade.
If you enjoy browsing, shopping for clothes, or looking for beauty products, you could spend half a day here. If you just want to wander around and grab something to eat, you can still have a great time for an hour or two.
Shinsaibashi PARCO is also nearby, so anyone who wants to fit all their shopping into one trip can visit both. -
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Yasukuni Shrine
The shrine was founded in 1869 by Emperor Meiji with the aim of comforting and memorializing the spirits of those who had given their lives for the nation in the turbulent times of the Meiji Restoration. The shrine's name, "Yasukuni," is imbued with a wish for the establishment of a peaceful nation.
Honestly, I had mixed feelings before going in, since everyone knows this place is very controversial. But the moment I stepped onto the approach, I instantly grew quiet. The entire stone-paved path is incredibly wide, and the two rows of large trees completely block out the traffic noise from the main road outside. All I could hear as I walked was my own footsteps, and the cool breeze felt really nice.
I wandered all the way to the main shrine, where white curtains were hanging and a sign nearby said photography wasn't allowed. Everyone quietly followed the rules, tossed in their money, and bowed. I also made sure to move softly and didn't dare fool around at all.
Later, I went to see the cherry blossom benchmark tree used by the Japan Meteorological Agency. Whenever the Japanese news talks about whether the cherry blossoms have bloomed in Tokyo, this is the star of the show. Even though it was completely green and had no blossoms at the time, it was still pretty cool to see the actual tree in person.
The Shinchi Teien garden in the back was great, and there was hardly anyone there. I just sat on a bench by the pond, zoned out, and drank some water while watching the incredibly fat koi swim around. My feet were really sore from walking, so relaxing in the breeze here felt amazing. -
