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Chic . Explore . ThinkerTen

My Style ~ My Journey ~ My Inspiration

JapanKyotoTravel

Self drive in Japan – Kyoto top places to visit

by kumamonjeng January 31, 2023
written by kumamonjeng January 31, 2023
Self drive in Japan – Kyoto top places to visit

Day 3 in Japan, we are moving from Arashiyama Ranzan Hotel to another hotel in Kyoto city center called Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Kiyomizu dera

Since check-in is after 2 pm, we go to one of the important tourist sites in Kyoto called Kiyomizu-Dera Temple. 清水寺 “Kiyomizu” means “clear water” in Japanese, while “dera” means “temple”. So, the name Kiyomizu-dera means “Temple of Clear Water”. The temple was named after a nearby waterfall that provided the temple with its water supply. The waterfall is said to have had healing powers, which added to the temple’s significance as a place of spiritual significance.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Kiyomizu is a historic temple in Kyoto, Japan. It was founded in 798 and is one of the oldest temples in Japan. It is a part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple is known for its large wooden stage that juts out over a hillside, offering visitors stunning views of the city and its surroundings.  The temple is unique as it extends outward and is supported on one end, offering visitors a view from a raised platform.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

The temple also features several other historic buildings and gardens, as well as a waterfall believed to have spiritual healing powers. Visitors come to the temple to admire its beauty, learn about its history, and participate in traditional Japanese spiritual practices.

Here are some of the important things to look out for when visiting Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto, Japan:

  • Wooden Stage: The wooden stage, or “Butai,” is one of the most recognizable features of the temple. It offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings and is a popular spot for taking photos.
  • Main Hall: The main hall of the temple is a large, impressive building that is home to several important Buddhist statues.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

  • Waterfall: The temple is named after a nearby waterfall that was believed to have spiritual healing powers. Visitors can drink the water from the waterfall, which is said to bring good luck. Do remember to go sip the clear water in Kiyomizu dera.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

  • Gardens: The temple grounds are home to several beautiful gardens, including a traditional Japanese garden and a tea garden.
  • Historic Buildings: The temple features several historic buildings, including the Otowa-no-taki waterfall pavilion, the Jishu Shrine, and the Okunoin Hall.
  • Cultural Activities: Visitors can participate in traditional Japanese cultural activities, such as tea ceremonies, incense burning, and calligraphy.
  • Art and Architecture: The temple is a great example of traditional Japanese architecture, and its buildings and grounds are adorned with beautiful works of art, including carvings, sculptures, and paintings.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

If you’re interested in fully immersing yourself in the traditional Japanese experience, you might consider renting a kimono for the day, which is a popular activity in Kyoto. This will allow you to experience the temple and its surroundings in a way that is true to its cultural heritage.

Kimono Renting

The cost of renting a kimono in Kyoto can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of kimono, the length of the rental period, and the location of the rental shop. On average, you can expect to pay between 3,000 to 8,000 yen ($30 to $80 USD) for a full kimono rental package, which typically includes the kimono, obi (sash), undergarments, and accessories such as sandals and hair ornaments. Some rental shops may offer more expensive premium packages with higher-end kimonos and accessories, while others may offer budget-friendly options for those on a tight budget. It’s best to shop around and compare prices at different rental shops before making a decision.

Here are some nearby attractions to Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto, Japan:

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

  • Higashiyama District: A historic neighborhood filled with traditional wooden buildings, shops, temples, and shrines. With a rental kimono, you would look wonderful for your photo taking

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

  • Yasaka Shrine: A Shinto shrine located just a few minutes’ walk from Kiyomizu-dera Temple. It is once called Gion Shrine.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

  • Maruyama Park: A large public park near Kiyomizu-dera Temple that is famous for its cherry blossom trees.
  • Gion District: A famous geisha district located a short walk from Kiyomizu-dera Temple, where visitors can see traditional wooden houses, shops, and teahouses. If you are lucky you may see geisha walking around, they usually comes out a little later in the afternoon.
  • Kodai-ji Temple: A historic zen temple located just a few minutes’ walk from Kiyomizu-dera Temple that is known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

  • Jishu Shrine: A small shrine located within the grounds of Kiyomizu-dera Temple that is dedicated to the god of love and matchmaking.
  • Sanjusangendo Temple: A historic temple located a short walk from Kiyomizu-dera Temple that is known for its long wooden hall filled with statues of the Thousand-Armed Kannon.
  • Chion-in Temple: A large temple located a short walk from Kiyomizu-dera Temple that is the headquarters of the Jodo sect of Buddhism.

Our lunch is at one of the noodles restaurants near Kiyomizu dera, the price is slightly higher than outskirt.  We had a udon rice set with chicken.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Tempura udon

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Duck meat with Soba noodles

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Where to park your park? The fee for the large public parking lot near the temple is typically around 500 to 800 yen per day.  Smaller parking lots located throughout the temple grounds may charge a lower fee or be free of charge, although these lots may have limited spaces and limited hours of operation.

After our meal, we check in to our hotel called the Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Where to stay? Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto

The Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto is considered to be in a good location. It is situated near popular tourist attractions such as the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle, and the famous Gion district, and is also conveniently located near transportation hubs.  The Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto has approximately 733 rooms so it is quite huge. The hotel has its own parking facility for guests who are driving.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

The hotel has Elevator parking within the premises.  Elevator parking is a system of automated parking garages where vehicles are stored vertically, one on top of the other, using elevators. This allows for efficient use of limited space in cities where real estate is at a premium, especially in CBD area. The process of parking and retrieving a vehicle typically involves the driver parking the vehicle on a platform, which is then automatically lifted and stored in a designated parking space. When the vehicle is needed, the platform with the vehicle is retrieved and lowered to ground level for the driver to retrieve the vehicle. Elevator parking systems are common in densely populated areas of Japan where space is limited.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Fushimi Inari Shrine is located in Fushimi-ku, Kyoto, Japan. It is another famous shrines in Japan and is dedicated to the god Inari, who is considered to be the patron of agriculture, business, and prosperity. The shrine is known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which form a path leading up to the main shrine buildings. Fushimi Inari Shrine is a popular tourist destination and attracts many visitors each year who come to see the gates and explore the shrine grounds. Inari is typically depicted as a deity associated with foxes, which are believed to be messengers of the deity. You will see inari foxes statues at the entrance of the shrines along the path of vermilion torii gates, and at various other locations throughout the shrine grounds.  Go spot them and take pictures with the inari foxes.

The exact number of torii gates at the shrine is not specified, but it is estimated to be over 10,000. The gates were donated by individuals and businesses as a form of offering to the deity Inari.  The gates, along with the surrounding forest, create a unique and iconic landscape that attracts many visitors each year.

The path to the top of the shrine is a series of trails that wind through the forest and are lined with thousands of vermilion torii gates. The total distance to the top is approximately 4 km and it takes 2-3 hours to complete. It is a popular hiking trail that offers scenic views and a unique cultural experience. At the top, you will be rewarded with a stunning view of the whole city.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Dinner Kyoto Station

We had our dinner at the Kyoto station, which is about 10 mins walk from Rihga Royal hotel. Kyoto Station has several food courts and dining areas offering a variety of local and international cuisine. Some popular food trails within Kyoto Station include the food floor in the basement of the Isetan department store, where visitors can find a variety of traditional Japanese and local Kyoto cuisine, as well as international food options. There are also several restaurants, cafes, and food stalls located throughout the station, offering a range of dining options for travelers and visitors. In addition to the food options inside Kyoto Station, there are also many dining establishments and street food vendors in the surrounding area, offering a wealth of food options for travelers and locals alike.

We had a western Japanese fusion restaurant, this is what we have. Prawn salad, beef with binjar and a meat platter.  The restaurant is a great place for people who drink alcohol.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Nara Deer Park

Our day 4 starts with Nara park as our first destination. The distance between Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto and Nara Park in Nara, Japan is approximately 70 kilometers (43.5 miles), which took us about an hour to arrive. Nara Park is a famous park located in the center of Nara City and is home to many of Nara’s most famous attractions, including several historic temples and the famous Nara deer, which are considered sacred in the Shinto religion and are popular tourist attractions.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Nara Park in Nara, Japan has several parking options available for visitors. There is a large public parking lot near the park, which is located on the east side of the park near the Todai-ji Temple. This parking lot is open 24 hours and charges a fee for parking. There are also several smaller parking lots located throughout the park, which may have limited spaces and limited hours of operation. We park in a smaller parking lot nearby, apparently, it’s a private parking lot area owned by the residents. I saw the old man holding a signboard written “parking” and waving at us so we just moved our car to his direction. Do remember to get the ticket from them so you know how to go back to get your car.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

You can spend hours playing with the sika deer, the park is home to hundreds of Sika deer, which are considered to be sacred in Japanese culture and are a symbol of good luck.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Todai Ji Temple

Nearby the park, there is Todai-ji Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this temple is one of the largest wooden buildings in the world and houses a large bronze statue of Buddha. You will have to pay a fee to get in to see the big Buddha.

Please also pay attention to a large wooden gate that serves as the entrance to Todai-ji Temple, known for its two large wooden guardians known as Niō.  Niō (also known as Agyō and Ungyō) are two fearsome and protective deities in Japanese Buddhist tradition. They are usually depicted as muscular guardians with angry expressions and are often placed at the entrance of Buddhist temples to ward off evil spirits and protect the temple’s residents and visitors.

Another interesting thing to note in Todaiji is the wooden pillar with a hole, it is a famous architectural feature located in the temple’s main hall, the Daibutsu-den. The pillar is said to have a hole in it that is the same size as one of the temple’s bronze statues of Buddha, and it is believed that those who can squeeze through the hole will be granted enlightenment in their next life.

The hole in the wooden pillar has become a popular attraction at Todai-ji Temple, and many visitors attempt to crawl through it as a form of spiritual practice or as a test of their physical ability.

Due to covid, the wooden pillar with a hole is temporarily closed for hygiene purposes

Kasuga-taisha Shrine

You should also include Kasuga-taisha Shrine, it is a Shinto shrine located in Nara, Japan. It is one of the most famous shrines in Japan and is known for its association with the Kasuga-yama hill behind it. The shrine was established in 768 AD and is dedicated to the deity Kasuga-no-mikoto, the god of fertility and prosperity.

The shrine is famous for its many bronze lanterns, which are lit twice a year during the lantern festivals in February and August. The shrine’s buildings and grounds are also decorated with many stone lanterns and other stone artifacts.

In addition to its religious significance, Kasuga-taisha Shrine is also known for its scenic beauty and is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the shrine’s grounds, which feature several buildings, a pond, and a large forested area. The shrine is also surrounded by the Kasuga-yama hill, which offers panoramic views of Nara and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. There are also shika deer over here.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion)

Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple located in Kyoto. It is one of the most famous and iconic landmarks in Japan and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The temple was originally built in the 14th century as a retirement villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, but it was later converted into a Zen temple after his death. The temple is named for its golden-plated top two floors, which are covered in gold leaf and shine brightly in the sun.

The temple’s main hall, the Hojo, is set in a beautiful pond and is surrounded by a well-manicured garden. Visitors can view the temple from a raised platform, which provides a stunning view of the temple and its surroundings.

In addition to its striking appearance, Kinkaku-ji Temple is also known for its rich history and cultural significance. It has survived many fires and other disasters throughout its history and has been restored several times, making it a testament to the resilience and perseverance of Japanese culture and history.

Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion)

When you have the golden pavilion, there is always another pavilion in silver. It is the Ginkaku-ji Temple, also a Zen Buddhist temple that was built in the 15th century as a retirement villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa. Unlike its name suggests, the temple is not covered in silver, but its simple and understated design, combined with its beautiful setting in a Zen garden, is what makes it so special.

Our dinner is again at the Kyoto station since our hotel is only nearby.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Dinner at Kyoto station – Korean Restaurant

We had Korean fried chicken,  cold noodles and spicy hot pot oyster rice.  It was a really yummy dinner.  You can choose 2 types of flavor for your fried chicken.  The cold noodles really cool down as it has a lot of ice and pear in it.  The hot oyster rice is served super hot and be careful not to burn your tongue.  There are 3 cold dishes served before our order came.  The portion wasn’t big but good enough for us.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Convenient store breakfast review

Since we didn’t opt for breakfast for our hotel, we choose to have our breakfast in Japanese convenient store. Breakfast at a convenience store in Japan typically includes onigiri (rice balls), sandwiches, pastries, and drinks such as coffee and juice. Some stores also offer hot food options like bento boxes or bowls of noodles. The prices are affordable and the food is often packaged to-go, making it a popular choice for busy commuters. Convenient stores in Japan, such as 7-Eleven or Lawson, are open 24/7 and widely available, making them a convenient option for a quick breakfast.  There will help you heat up the breakfast.

Seriously you should try out the bento set in the Japanese convenience store if you are traveling in Japan, you will be amazed at the quality of the food.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Nijo Castle

Before we leave for Kyoto the following morning, we dropped by to Nijo Castle. It was another historical building in Kyoto built in the 17th century as the residence of the Tokugawa shogun. During my visit in Dec 2023, some parts of the buildings are under renovation. Things you should look for in Nijo Castle are the Ninomaru Palace: The main hall of the castle, the Ninomaru Palace is a beautiful example of Momoyama-style architecture and is considered one of the finest examples of its kind.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

The Ninomaru Palace is famous for its Nightingale Floors, which were designed to squeak like birds when walked on, serving as an early warning system against intruders.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

The castle grounds include several smaller temples and gardens, which are beautiful and peaceful places to relax and explore.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

Nijo Castle was the site of many important events in Japanese history, including the Meiji Restoration, which marked the end of the shogunate and the beginning of modern Japan.

Self drive in Japan - Kyoto top places to visit

There is a huge parking lot just right in front of the castle.

Final thoughts:

If you were to ask me how many days you should stay in Kyoto? Well, I have to say minimum of 2-3 days and ideally should be 4-5 days. In our case, we spend 2 days in Arashiyma, Uji, and 2 days in the Kyoto city area. So in total, is about 4 days in Kyoto. 6-7 days: With this amount of time, you can really immerse yourself in Kyoto’s culture and history, visiting many of the city’s lesser-known temples and shrines, and taking part in traditional activities such as tea ceremonies or flower arrangement classes. Renting a kimono and walking around in the city of Kyoto is another highlight you should not miss. There are many people doing the same thing so you won’t be the only one who is wearing a kimono. The places that are best to rent a kimono would be somewhere near Kiyomizu dera, Arashiyama, and Fushimi Inari. There are many shops open for the kimono renting business and best if you go early so that you can choose your favorite kimono.

 

 

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Chion-in TempleFushimi Inari ShrineGinkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion)Gion DistrictJapanese Convenient store breakfast reviewJishu ShrineKasuga-taisha Shrinekimono rentingKinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion)Kiyomizu deraKodai-ji Templekyotokyoto stationNara Deer ParkNijo CastleNinomaru PalaceRihga Royal Hotel KyotoSanjusangendo Temple:Todai Ji Temple
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I am the travel writer for Thinkerten. I lived in Japan, Australia, Malaysia and now based in Singapore. Speak 4 languages, Japanese, English, Malay, and Chinese. There are the many types of travels one can experience and mine are mostly focus on self-driving/road trip to explore the places I wanted to see and learn about. Only if you get out of your country, you will see the real you and understand more about yourself, to realize of your own identity, your own culture, and your root.

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