Our Last Full Day in Kyoto

Knowing it was our last full day in Kyoto made the morning feel a little more special. There’s something about the final day in a place that makes everything slower and more meaningful. We wanted to soak it all in. No rushing, no overpacking the schedule, just enjoying Kyoto for what it is.

We woke up before sunrise, bundled up, and stepped out into the quiet streets, ready for one last day of temples, food, and small moments.

Our first stop was Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of bright red torii gates winding up the mountain. We arrived early, just after sunrise, hoping to beat the crowds. While there were already a few other early risers, it was still calm enough to find quiet moments between groups.

We walked past the main gate and into the tunnel of torii gates, waiting patiently for gaps to open up so we could grab photos without people in them. It took a little patience, but honestly, that felt like part of the experience. Slow steps, deep breaths, soft morning light. It was peaceful in a way that’s hard to explain.

And then, the highlight I didn’t expect: cats. Our very first cats in Japan, casually hanging out around the shrine like they owned the place. It felt like a good sign, like Kyoto was giving us one last little surprise before we left.

We didn’t hike all the way to the top. Instead, we walked up to one of the early lookout points, took it all in, and then headed back down. Sometimes turning around early is the right call.

Late morning, we made our way back to Ninenzaka Street, one of Kyoto’s most charming historic areas, for a ring-making experience at Glänta Kyoto. This was something I’d been looking forward to, and it ended up being one of my favorite moments of the entire trip.

Layton and I each got to choose everything, metal type, ring shape, texture, finish, and even engravings. Then one of the craftsmen guided us through every step of the process, letting us shape and polish our rings by hand.

It felt personal in the best way. Not rushed, not touristy, just thoughtful and meaningful. Walking out with rings we made ourselves, knowing we’ll always associate them with Kyoto, felt really special. If you’re ever in Kyoto, I genuinely recommend booking this in advance. It’s a solid 10/10 experience.

For lunch, we originally planned to go back to our favorite taco spot… only to realize it was closed. Mondays happen. Instead of being disappointed, we rolled with it and found Rigoletto Smoke Grill & Bar nearby.

It ended up being a great backup plan. We shared pizza and ordered a wagyu beef bolognese, which was rich, comforting, and exactly what we needed. It wasn’t Japanese food, but sometimes your body just wants something familiar, and that’s okay.

In the late afternoon, we headed out again, this time to Kiyomizu-dera Temple for sunset. The walk up was familiar by now, but the atmosphere felt completely different.

The sky was soft, the leaves were starting to change, and a light rain drifted through the air. Instead of ruining the moment, the rain made everything feel more magical. The temple glowed, the wooden stage looked dramatic against the mist, and the colors felt deeper somehow.

Standing there, looking out over Kyoto as the light faded, I felt grateful. Not just for the view, but for the entire experience of being here at this exact time.

By evening, we were tired in that good way. The kind of tired where going out sounds less appealing than staying in. So instead of finding a restaurant, we stopped by 7-Eleven and grabbed dinner to eat in our hotel room.

Simple, easy, comforting. Honestly? Perfect.

We talked about the trip, scrolled through photos, and just existed quietly for a while. Those moments don’t always make it to Instagram, but they matter just as much.

This last day in Kyoto felt like the perfect, gentle ending to our time here. Between the early morning shrine visit, creating something meaningful with our own hands, and watching the city glow at sunset, everything felt calm and unhurried. The light rain and cooler air added to the mood, making Kyoto feel even more peaceful and cozy.

The leaves were starting to change, and while we missed peak fall colors, it reminded me that travel doesn’t always line up perfectly with nature, and that’s okay. Sometimes you get exactly the experience you’re meant to have, even if it looks a little different from what you imagined.

Kyoto gave us quiet mornings, beautiful temples, comforting food, and moments where we could slow down and be present. It’s a city that stays with you long after you leave.

If you want to follow the rest of our journey, you can read all of our Japan trip blogs over here, where we’ve shared stories from each day of our adventure.

 As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own.

Angie xoxo