Day 4 in Japan: Kyoto and Osaka

Day 4 started the same way most mornings in Japan have started for us so far, early. We got ready, stepped outside into cool air, and made our way toward the west side of Kyoto. Even though waking up early usually feels rough, something about Japan makes it easier. Maybe it’s the quiet mornings or the way the air feels fresh before the crowds show up.

Either way, we were excited. Today was all about temples, bamboo forests, and a little side trip to Osaka.

Our first stop was Tenryu-ji Temple, and right away, it felt peaceful. The peaceful that makes you naturally talk softer. The gardens were huge and calm, with big ponds and trees that looked like they’d been cared for for centuries. It was one of those places where you feel your shoulders drop without even trying.

We wandered slowly, taking our time. There was no rush, just the sound of birds and the soft crunch of gravel under our shoes.

Next, we walked straight into the Arashiyama bamboo grove. Yes, it was packed. Super packed. But honestly? Still beautiful. The bamboo shoots were so tall that looking up made me feel tiny, and the way the light slipped through the green leaves made everything feel a little dreamy.

We managed to squeeze into some quieter corners to grab photos, and I’m pretty sure those will end up being some of my favorites from this whole trip.

After the grove, we headed to Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, and the vibe completely changed. The temple was filled with around 8,000 stone statues—all there to honor people who passed away without any family.

It was sad, deeply and quietly. The statues stood close together, covered in moss, some leaning slightly like old friends resting on each other. We walked slowly through the rows, letting the stillness sink in. Even though it was somber, it was also very beautiful.

We tried to visit Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple after, but it was closed. Maybe we’ll try again another day.

By the time we headed back toward our hotel area, we were starving. And somehow, we ended up at Hard Rock Cafe—in Japan.

It sounds random, but Layton and I have eaten at Hard Rocks all over the world, on almost every continent… except Asia. So we kind of had to do it. The food tasted exactly how Hard Rock should taste. It’s comforting, familiar, and honestly pretty perfect after walking for hours.

After lunch, we went back to the hotel for a quick nap. And wow, that nap hit so good.

Later in the afternoon, we hopped on a train to Osaka. The ride took about 20 minutes, and as soon as we stepped off the train, it felt like we’d switched worlds completely. Kyoto gives a calm, soft, traditional feel. Osaka gives loud, bright, and “let’s have fun.”

We started with Shinsekai, a busy retro-style neighborhood full of neon signs, game arcades, street food stalls, and giant decorations hanging above the streets. It felt chaotic in the most entertaining way.

We walked around, people-watched, and soaked in the noise and color. Osaka definitely knows how to keep you awake.

From there, we made our way to the famous Dōtonbori area, which was even busier. Think crowds, neon everywhere, huge moving signs, basically sensory overload in the best way.

We stopped at the iconic Glico Running Man sign for photos, then wandered into a Matsukiyo store where I grabbed some makeup and souvenirs because… of course I did.

Dinner was at Kobe Beef WANOMIYA, and wow. Just wow. The beef was buttery, tender, and honestly kind of life-changing. If you go, get the sirloin or the garlic rice bowl with Kobe beef. I’m still thinking about it.

After dinner, we grabbed melon-pan ice cream from a street stall. Warm sweet bread + cold ice cream? Yes. Always yes.

Osaka Castle at Night

Before heading back, we made a quick stop at Osaka Castle. We accidentally bought tickets for a cheesy light show, laughed our way through it, then walked up to the castle on our own. Seeing it lit up at night was so worth it. The white walls glowed against the sky, and there were barely any people around. It was peaceful in a different way than Kyoto, quiet, but with a city buzz in the distance.

We caught one of the last Shinkansen trains back to Kyoto, and even though the ride was only about 20 minutes, it felt like the perfect way to wind down after such a packed day. By the time we walked back into our hotel room, that familiar mix of exhaustion and happiness had settled in, the kind you only get after exploring two totally different cities in one day.

As I got ready for bed, I kept thinking about how much I’m loving Kyoto’s calm energy, especially after Osaka’s loud, bright chaos. It made the return feel comforting, almost like slipping back into something soft and familiar.

If you want to see how our Kyoto adventure first started, you can check out our blog from Day 3 in Japan over here. 

 As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own.

Angie xoxo