Discovering Kyoto: What to See, Do, and Expect on Your Visit

Day 3 in Japan started early and quietly as we got ready, grabbed breakfast, and made our way to Tokyo Station, which already felt familiar even though it was only our third morning in Japan. The station was busy as always, but everything flowed so seamlessly that we easily found our Shinkansen to Kyoto. The moment we stepped inside the bullet train, I finally understood the hype—the seats were wide and comfortable, the windows were huge, and the ride was incredibly smooth. We chose seats on the right side, hoping to catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji, and we were lucky enough to get an apparent view of it glowing in the morning light. I even caught it on video (check my IG post here!), and that alone made the ride unforgettable. About two hours later, we arrived in Kyoto, where the atmosphere instantly shifted; the city felt softer, calmer, and full of history. After dropping off our luggage at the hotel, we went straight out to explore its quiet streets, wooden houses, cafés, and hidden shrines.

Our first destination was Kennin-ji Temple, the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto and one of the most important. Walking through the entrance, everything felt instantly peaceful. The noise of the city faded, replaced by soft footsteps, the sound of wind brushing through trees, and occasional chimes.

The temple buildings were elegant but straightforward, exactly what you expect from traditional Zen architecture. Clean lines, open spaces, sliding doors, and tatami floors that made you want to walk slowly and breathe a little deeper.

The gardens were the kind that make you pause for no reason. Raked gravel patterns, soft moss, perfectly placed stones, and glimpses of fall colors starting to show. It all felt intentional and calming.

One of my favorite things I learned: the first abbot of Kennin-ji is the monk who helped popularize green tea in Japan. I love little details like that, how one person can influence an entire country’s culture in such a lasting way.

After the temple, we were ready for lunch. We found Dos Tacos Yasaka, a small taco shop that turned out to be pure magic.

Let me say this clearly: I grew up in Arizona. I know good tacos. I’ve eaten great tacos my whole life. And these? These were truly some of the best tacos I’ve ever had.

The flavors were bold and fresh, everything was seasoned perfectly, and the tortillas tasted like they were made with love. I kept taking bite after bite in disbelief. Layton agreed—they were the best food of the trip so far.

I’m not joking when I say I’m considering eating there every day for lunch while we’re in Kyoto. That’s how good they were.

After lunch, we walked through Gion, Kyoto’s famous historic district. The rain had started by then, but instead of ruining the mood, it made everything feel even more charming.

The stone streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka glistened under the rain, and the wooden buildings looked even more picturesque with water running down their roofs. These streets always have tourists, but because of the weather, the crowds were thinner. It felt quieter and more intimate than usual.

After lunch, we walked through Gion, Kyoto’s famous historic district. The rain had started by then, but instead of ruining the mood, it made everything feel even more charming.

The stone streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka glistened under the rain, and the wooden buildings looked even more picturesque with water running down their roofs. These streets always have tourists, but because of the weather, the crowds were thinner. It felt quieter and more intimate than usual.

As our third day in Japan wrapped up, I found myself wondering how easy and enjoyable the whole day felt. Kyoto had a calm vibe that I really loved—quiet temples, small streets, and that light rain that somehow made everything look even prettier. We didn’t rush around or try to squeeze in too much. Instead, we took our time, explored at a comfortable pace, and just enjoyed whatever we stumbled into. Even the simple moments stood out, like eating those insanely good tacos, walking through Gion with our umbrellas, or relaxing back at the hotel while the rain tapped on the windows.

It was one of those days that wasn’t overly planned but still felt really special. Every little moment added something good to the day, and by the time I got into bed that night, I felt tired in the best way, calm, happy, and excited for what’s next.

If you want to follow the whole story from the beginning, you can read about our first two days in Japan on my blog here. That’s where we explored Tokyo and took our amazing trip to Mt. Fuji before making our way here to Kyoto.

 As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own.

Angie xoxo