Exploring Kyoto

Exploring Kyoto

Our 2026 trip to Japan kicked off with a Shinkansen ride straight to Kyoto. We grabbed some katsu sandos, and took a quick nap to help fight off the jet lag.

We met up with our friends Meritt, Cal, Erikson, and Brooke for dinner, and then got to enjoy our first of many post-dinner convenience store desserts.

The Next Day

Our next kicked off at the Kyoto station, which turned out to house Julie's favorite morning treat, HOHO HOJICHA.

We headed out to the Sagano Bamboo Grove, which was quite packed with fellow tourists, but still incredibly beautiful.

Continuing our exploration of the area, we explored the Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama.

Spotted this cute logo for a tea company

🦆🍜

The Gion Duck Noodles restaurant was one of the highest rated in the ramen category on Tabelog, so we decided we had to give them a try. Tabelog was correct in its rating.

A quick train ride back home to recoup before heading out for the night

Our home in Kyoto

We opted for an airbnb instead of a hotel since the prices were comparable and we got more space. We loved this spot.

Julie picked up this Miffy pastry while we were out and about, but neither of us could actually bring ourselves to eat it since it was so cute.

We spent the rest of the night wandering the streets near Nishiki Market before finally finding a spot to finish our night with some udon.

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