Just An Ordinary Girl

Photo By: Elin Chow

Good morning! We started our second day of our 7D6N Japan Trip early the next morning. After washing up, we set off to our first destination of the day - Arashiyama. Located on the Western outskirts of Kyoto surrounded by mountains, Arashiyama is one of the major and best known tourist attractions in Kyoto.


The fastest and easiest way to get to Arashiyama from Kyoto Station is by the JR train. Most of the major attractions of Arashiyama can be reached in a 5 - 10 minutes walk from Saga-Arashiyama Station along the JR Sagano Line. The entire train ride takes about 15 minutes, making Arashiyama the perfect place for a day trip from Kyoto.

At Kyoto Station, the train to Arashiyama depart from track 32 or 33. To get to JR Saga-Arashiyama, you can take either the rapid or local train bound for Kameoka and Sonobe. However, please do not take the limited express train as they do not stop at Saga-Arashiyama Station.


JR Saga-Arashiyama Station is located 6th station from Kyoto Station if you take the local train and third station from Kyoto Station if you take the rapid train. The JR Sagano Line is covered by the JR Pass. For those who do not have a JR Pass, the one way fare from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station is 240 Yen.

Besides JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, the Arashiyama area is also serviced by Keifuku Arashiyama Station and Hankyu Arashiyama Station. You can use the Keifuku (or Randen) Railway and Hankyu Railway to get to Arashiyama, both of which are not covered by the JR Pass. All the stations are conveniently located in Arashiyama, so which line you take depend greatly on your starting point in Kyoto.


If you are alighting from from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, you will first encounter the Saga Torokko Station where you can catch a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. We had initially planned to catch a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train because we were told that this is a must try for any visitors visiting Arashiyama. But unfortunately, all tickets were sold out days or even weeks in advance.


The Sagano Romantic Train is very popular during the autumn color and cherry blossom seasons and tickets tend to sell out very quickly during these peak periods. However, it is still possible to buy standing-room tickets if all seats are sold out.


Located beside Saga Torokko Station is the Steam Locomotive and Piano Museum with historical locomotives and pianos on display. Locomotives and pianos? What an unusual combination! However, we did not pay to enter the museum because we have no interest in history.


At the entrance of the museum, you will find an old train model on display. There is also a cafe at the museum where you can purchase some snacks and drinks.



Arashiyama is a very touristy district, popular among locals and international tourists, so the area is always very crowded, especially during the spring cherry blossom and fall color seasons. Thus, I would suggest that you visit as early as you could for a more tranquil experience.

There is so much to do and see at Arashiyama area, so I recommend allocating at least half a day for your visit. In fact, I feel that even half a day is not really enough to fully experience the beauty of Arashiyama. I wish we could stay here for an entire day.


Alighting at Saga-Arashiyama Station, we followed the stream of tourists that led us through the busy Arashiyama Shopping Street lined with tea house, souvenir shops and restaurants. The main street of Arashiyama is crowded with rickshaws, cars and sightseeing tourists.


Unlike all other train stations that you will see in Japan, the Keifuku Arashiyama Station do not have ticket barriers. The Keifuku line or Randen is a streetcar running in Western Kyoto, connecting Omiya Station at Omiya Shijo and Arashiyama Station.


Price: 500 Yen

Curry Udon

Price: 500 Yen

Although it was really cheap, it was delicious. The Udon was very chewy, thick and soft with simple and flavorful broth.

Tenryuji Temple

Right across the road from Keifuku Arashiyama Station is Tenryuji Temple, the largest temple in Arashiyama district.


Listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, Tenryuji Temple is accessible directly from the main street.


Ranked as first of the Five Great Zen Temple in Kyoto, Tenryuji Temple is the most prestigious temple in Arashiyama district.


There are two entrances to the temple, one on the left side (across the road from Keifuku Arashiyama Station) and another one on the right side. The one on the left side is for vehicles (but pedestrians can also enter from this entrance) and the one on the right side is solely for pedestrians.


We took the entrance at the right side, passing through a large parking lot shadowed by colorful maple trees.




Despite the massive crowds, everything feels peaceful and calm. The temple grounds are very spacious and well spread out, so we did not feel like we were in a large crowds. It was comfortable to walk around the area without bumping into anyone.

Togetsukyo bridge

Standing at 375 meters high, Arashiyama mountain is covered by brilliant yellow, orange and red maple leaves and stretches along the Katsura River. The landscape is said to be beautiful throughout the year.



There is a small pier on the river with lots of paddle boats available for rental. The boat is steered by three boatmen and can hold up to ten people. Take a cruise down the river to enjoy the seasonal beauty of Arashiyama.



Along the river, you will also find a lot of rickshaws available for hire. Hiring a one of the best way to see Arashiyama if you do not wish to do sightseeing on foot.


Sit back and relax while your rickshaw driver pull you through and around Arashiyama. Prices generally range from 5,000 Yen - 7,000 Yen depending where you want to go. The driver also acts as a guide, providing a relaxing tour around the area. However, most of the Rickshaw drivers do not speak English. But they still try their best to make your experience enjoyable.


Located at the center of the river is Togetsukyo bridge, the most iconic landmark in Arashiyama district. Measuring 155 meters long, the bridge spans across Katsura River, offering a spectacular view of the Arashiyama mountain and surrounding area.




Strolling down the pathway along the river, we saw an old man painting the colorful mountain.




The area around Togetsukyo Bridge is always very busy, especially during the spring cherry blossom and fall seasons. The pathways and bridge are filled with hundreds of tourists walking around bumping into each other. It was not certainly not a very pleasant experience.


We stood on the bridge in silence, admiring the scenery. But unfortunately, the sky is really gloomy on the day we visited, so I could not take better pictures. The dark sky seems to give a very gloomy atmosphere to my pictures.

Bamboo Grove

Located about 10 minutes from Togetsukyo Bridge is the well-known Bamboo Grove. This is certainly one of the places I look forward to seeing in Arashiyama.


Despite being a popular attraction, we found the Bamboo Grove a little difficult to locate because there were not exactly many signs around. We spent a bit of time wandering around and eventually, we found ourselves ended up on a little sidewalk that is unmarked.


Bamboo Grove is open 24 hours a week and entrance is free. The path is flanked by thousands of tall bamboos on both sides swaying peacefully in the breeze. Walking under shade of towering bamboo, I felt as though I have entered into a magical world. My heart felt incredibly peaceful.

The entire path is 500 meters long and you can easily walk the length of it in 5 minutes, which was disappointing as it was so much more smaller than what we have actually expected. It seems impossible to get a nice picture without having anyone in your way because the entire path is crowded with people taking selfies. Well, even if you managed to take some, I believe the photos could not capture the beauty and magic of this place.


The Bamboo Grove of Arashiyama is probably the most photographed tourist sight in Kyoto and is popular among both locals and foreign tourists.Simply google Arashiyama, I believe most pictures you will see will be Bamboo Grove and Togetsukyo Bridge. Along with the thousands Vermillion Torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha, the Bamboo Grove of Arashiyama is certainly one of the most famous sight in Kyoto.


The bamboo are used to manufacture various handicraft products, such as baskets, boxes and cups, and you can buy these products from the shops in Arashiyama. I think it will be nice to bring some of these products home as souvenirs or gifts.


Leaving Bamboo Grove, we continued uphill, heading towards the north of central Arashiyama, which I found it to be less touristy and more rural.





We walked through the quiet neighbourhood and secluded residential streets of Arashiyama full of traditional Japanese houses, tiny eateries, lesser known temples and shops.


The quieter part of Arashiyama is also dotted with historical sites, most of them are located quite a distance apart. On this fascinating walk, you will discover many temples that are far away from the crowds, some of which offers really amazing view of autumn maple leaves. But of course, entry is not free.


I took a deep breath of the fresh, crisp air, enjoying the lush greenery and colorful autumn leaves at every turn. However, please be prepared that there will be quite a lot of walking to do, so it will be best to equip yourself with comfortable walking shoes. Most of the areas around Arashiyama are wheelchair and stroller friendly, making it easy destination to get around.


So we kept walking and walking, unsure what to expect. As you walk further uphill in Arashiyama, the crowds start to thin out and this is when you will get to enjoy some tranquility.


I love being surrounded by untouched nature and beautiful autumn foliage, far away from the traffic and crowds. However, detailed maps were not available around this area, so it is easy to get lost in the maze of streets and side alleys.


After hours of endless walking, our legs were aching and our tummies were rumbling. We decided to give up and head back to Arashiyama Shopping Street to search for food. Well, I must admit that I have totally underestimated the size of Arashiyama district. It is a really huge area with plenty to explore. so it is good to come prepared with a list to do and see.


Back at Arashiyama Shopping Street, we randomly walked into a restaurant located just beside Saga Arashiyama Station to refill our extremely tired and hungry body. It is very small restaurant but with great atmosphere.


The restaurant serves typical Japanese food of high quality. Limited English menu with pictures are available, so we did not have any problem ordering our food.

Grilled Japan Beef & Salad Set

Price: 1,130 Yen

Tempura - Large Prawns & Vegetables Set
Price: 1,280 Yen

I ordered the Grilled Japan Beef & Salad Set while my husband ordered the Tempura - Large Prawns & Vegetables Set. The portion sizes were quite small but very filling. Food was delicious with great service, although slightly pricey as expected.

Price: 110 Yen

After lunch, my husband bought a can of hot coffee from the vending machine outside the restaurant. This was very tasty and probably the best I have tasted so far! Sweetened and blended with mellow milk, the coffee has a very nice aroma and a very smooth after taste. Most importantly, it was not too sweet or bitter at all!

Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, surrounded by mountains and natural scenery on all sides, Arashiyama is a perfect place to unwind. The area is absolutely stunning and you will find beauty in every direction. Be sure bring to have your camera ready, or you may regret. This is definitely a must-see destination for those visiting Kyoto.

If you are interested to know more about our trip, you may want to check out our 7D6N Osaka - Kyoto - Nara - Kobe Trip Itinerary + Overview for the list of attractions that we had visited during our 7 days in Japan. For anyone planning your first trip to Japan but have no idea where to start, you should read my "How To Plan A Trip To Japan" post.
Be sure to follow me on Facebook or Twitter for the latest updates on my 7 days adventures in Japan! You might also want to check My Wanderlust page for some of my other travel adventures.

Photo: Elin Chow

Leaving Fushimi Inari Taisha, we headed off to the next destination of the day - Nishiki Market.


Nishiki Market is located a short walk away from Shijo Station on the Karasuma Subway Line along Shijo Street. Karasuma Subway Line is one of the two subway lines operated by Kyoto Municipal Subway. The Shijo Station is the second station from Kyoto Station. The one way fare from Kyoto Station to Shijo Station is 210 Yen. However, please note that the JR Pass does not cover the Kyoto Municipal Subway.


There is a common saying that, "if you have not been to Nishiki Market, it is almost like you have not been to Kyoto at all". Established more than 400 years ago, Nishiki Market is one of the oldest and best-loved food markets in Japan.


Nishiki Market is a fully covered narrow street spanning five blocks, packed with over hundred of shops and restaurants. The entire street is 400-metres long and runs between Teramachi street and Takakura street. Most of the shops in Nishiki Market are family-owned businesses, operated by the same family over generations.


Known as Kyoto's Kitchen, Nishiki Market specializes in all things food related - from fresh seafood to knives and cookwares. Lining on both sides of the narrow street are stalls selling vegetables, spices, tofu, fresh seafood, fragrant tea and handmade kitchenwares. It is a great place to find seasonal food and Kyoto's local specialties like Japanese sweets, pickles and dried seafood.


Most of the shops specialize in a particular type of food and often offer free samples without expecting you to buy anything. Almost everything sold in the market is locally produced or procured and are of best quality, so do expect to pay a slightly higher price than in supermarkets.


Walking down the narrow street, you will find plenty of food stalls selling takeaway food like skewers of cooked seafood or meat, rice crackers and many other traditional Japanese street food which you can just grab and go. Nishiki Market is heaven for foodies. It is certainly the best place to sample and enjoy all culinary delights of Kyoto.


Nishiki Market is open almost everyday, from 9.00 am to 6.30 pm. However, some shops are closed on either Wednesday or Sunday. We arrived at around 4 pm on a Sunday afternoon and were surprised at how crowded it was. Nishiki Market is popular with both locals and international tourists, though you will probably see more Japanese than foreigners.

The crowds made it difficult for us to enjoy things at a leisurely pace. People with mobility problems will also find the crowds extremely challenging. The street is too narrow and crowded to maneuver a wheelchair or baby stroller. I suggest visiting early on a weekday morning if you want to avoid the massive crowds.

Most of the shop owners does not speak fluent English, but they were generally very friendly and welcoming. Unlike most other traditional markets in Asia, Nishiki Market is also very clean and well-organized, just like everything in Japan.


Feeling hungry, we randomly walked into Genzou Nishiki to grab some dinner. The restaurant serves Japanese food and offers an English menu (as well as Japanese) complete with pictures.

Hot Tempura Noodles

Price: 1,080 Yen

Fried Chinese Noodles with Sliced Pork and Baby Squids

Price: 702 Yen

My husband ordered Hot Tempura Noodles while I ordered Fried Chinese Noodles with Sliced Pork and Baby Squids. Both were very delicious, value for money with decent serving size.

Price: 350 Yen

After dinner, I bought a Matcha soft serve from one of the food stall to try. I was told that Matcha soft serve is a must-eat in Kyoto. You can buy Matcha soft serve almost anywhere in Kyoto. True enough, it does not disappoint. The soft serve taste a lot like Matcha, with a lingering tinge of bitterness. It is very creamy, smooth and most importantly, not too sweet.


The end of Nishiki Market opens to Teramachi-Dori. Teramachi-Dori means Temple Town Street in English and the reason for this street name is simply due to high concentration of temples found along the Eastern side of this street.

Sitting at the intersection of Nishiki Market and Teramachi street is the famous Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine. Dedicated to the Shinto God of Learning, Sugawara-no Michizane, people visit the shrine to pray for good luck for their studies.


On Teramachi street, you will find plenty of shops catered to temple-goers and tourists alike, selling a variety of religious goods like Buddhist prayer beads, Buddhist sculptures, memorial tablets, books, incense and so on.

In addition to that, you will also find a wide range of fashion shops, bookstores, art galleries, souvenirs shops, pharmacies and tea shops.


I am always a big fan of baked cheese tarts, so I was really excited when I chanced upon the famous BAKE Cheese Tarts from Sapporo, Hokkaido while we were strolling down Teramachi street. I quickly went into the store and bought two cheese tarts to try. As BAKE believes that freshly baked cheese tarts taste the best, all their cheese tarts are baked on the spot and sold freshly out from the oven.

Price: 216 Yen

Freshly out of the oven, the baked cheese tart has a very crunchy and fluffy crust with cheesy warm soft filling. The cheese is very smooth and creamy, but not overpowering. So sinfully delicious!


Somewhere along the street, we also chanced upon Kani Doraku, a famous Japanese restaurant chain specializing in high quality crabs and other seafood dishes. The giant mechanical orange crab that moves above the entrance is the iconic symbol of the restaurant.  This restaurant is a heaven for crab lovers, but do expect to pay a hefty price.


Running parallel to Teramachi shopping street is Shinkyogoku shopping street. Both the streets are connected by several side streets so they make up a single complex, which form the heart of Kyoto's main shopping district. Together, they offer the best shopping experience in Kyoto.


Shinkyogoku Street is a much newer street than Teramachi Street and is lined with a wide range of fashion shops, souvenir shops, game arcades, restaurants and a cinema. The street of Shinkyogoku is much narrower and crowded than Teramachi as it tends to attract the younger crowds and tourists.

On Shinkyogoku Street, you could find almost anything. This is definitely one of the best place in Kyoto to get some gifts souvenirs for yourself or your family and friends back home.


In between shops, you will find game arcades and dozens of different claws machines.


Movix is said to be the biggest cinema in Kyoto, boasting 12 screens and 2,500 plus seating.


There is a very large Daiso 100 Yen shop on Teramachi street, so we decided to drop in and take a look. The shop is very clean, well organized and stocked. However, we were surprised that the 100 Yen price does not include the 8% consumption tax. After adding in tax, each item is actually 108 Yen instead of 100 Yen.



Even though it was only 6 pm, the sky was totally dark already. Walking out of Kyoto Station, we were excited to see the Kyoto Tower standing brightly in the dark sky.


Price: 113 Yen | 195 Yen

We went to Family Mart beside Kyoto Station to get some drinks before heading back to our Airbnb apartment. Whenever we travel overseas, we will always visit convenience stores. We found it really interesting to visit and explore convenience stores in a foreign country. There are so many things to look at and try and it is always fascinating to see unfamiliar food and drink items in the stores.

We bought apple juice and creamy latte from the Family Mart. Even though I am not a big fan of coffee, I love the creamy latte very much. It was very rich and creamy but not too overpowering.

Price: 129 Yen

My husband is a big fan of Ito En brand bottled green tea and everyday, he will buy bottles of these from either a convenience store or vending machine. I agree that this taste really good too. It is not too sweet or bitter with a very nice flavour and aroma.

We turned in early that night, excited what is going to happen the next day. Japan was everything we expected it to be and more. We could not wait to explore more of Kyoto!

If you are interested to know more about our trip, you may want to check out our 7D6N Osaka - Kyoto - Nara - Kobe Trip Itinerary + Overview for the list of attractions that we had visited during our 7 days in Japan. Be sure to follow me on Facebook or Twitter for the latest updates on my 7 days adventures in Japan! You might also want to check My Wanderlust page for some of my other travel adventures.