If Osaka is Japan’s neon party animal, Kyoto is the elegant elder sibling who still knows how to surprise you—just in a quieter, more refined way. Except, of course, when you’re me, booking a last-minute trip on the Kyo-Train Garaku and accidentally letting everyone else have the fancy seats. Because who needs comfort, right?

On paper, Kyoto is the land of geishas, tea ceremonies, and ancient shrines. But scratch beneath the postcard surface, and you’ll find a city that can be equal parts spiritual retreat and tourist trap, often within the same temple complex. Let’s be real: I came here half for the history, half for the sake of filming cinematic B-roll with my camera. Also, I needed a break from my leftover veggies in Osaka.

My day started with a scramble at Umeda Station in Osaka, trying to catch that whimsical Kyo-Train Garaku I saw on Instagram. Of course, I arrived an hour early, convinced I’d need a special ticket—only to realize any seat was fair game. So naturally, I gave up the best ones. Pro tip: research is your friend, folks. By the time I found out, it was too late; but hey, at least I got a seat in the ‘normal’ section and a nice walk of shame to the fancy seats afterward.

Arriving in Kyoto, I had my eyes set on Fushimi Inari Taisha (those iconic orange torii gates). If you haven’t seen it on social media yet, you’re either living under a rock or ironically refusing to follow travel accounts. The place is stunning—and absolutely packed with tourists. I was on a budget and a diet, so no fancy lunch for me. Instead, I just filmed everyone else living their best lives. Then I hopped trains in the wrong direction, because that’s my brand now.

Despite the crowds and my personal misadventures, Kyoto has this undeniable charm that keeps me coming back—like a city that says, “Yes, I’m touristy, but I’ve earned it.” And you know what? It really has.

—Carl, Carl Travels

What to See & Do

Kyoto has a reputation for serenity and cultural depth, but it’s also brimming with tourist hot spots. Here are five picks—three from TripAdvisor’s must-sees, and two anti-influencer options:

1. Fushimi Inari Taisha (TripAdvisor Favorite): Endless rows of orange torii gates. Arrive early or stay late to avoid human gridlock.
2. Kiyomizu-dera (TripAdvisor Favorite): A wooden temple perched on a hillside. Stunning views, but also mind the selfie-sticks.
3. Kinkaku-ji (TripAdvisor Favorite): The famous golden pavilion. Gorgeous reflection in the pond—if you can see past the crowd.
4. Side Streets of Gion (Anti-Influencer Pick): Wander away from the main drag. You might stumble upon hidden teahouses and local shrines where no one’s filming a vlog.
5. Midday “Lost” Adventure (Anti-Influencer Pick): Hop on a random bus or train, get off wherever it looks interesting, and see what happens. Embrace the chaos!

Itinerary & Essentials

Short on time or just want to avoid a meltdown? Here’s a bare-bones approach:

• Train from Osaka (Kyo-Train Garaku): Leaves from Umeda Station, Platform 3. Arrive early—but don’t give up the good seats like I did.
• Travel Adapter: Japan uses Type A/B plugs. Bring one, or forever hunt for an overpriced tourist shop.
• Rain Coat (Winter to Early Spring): Kyoto can get chilly and rainy, so be prepared unless you enjoy soggy socks.
• Buy an eSIM Before Arrival: Avoid the dreaded “Where’s the free Wi-Fi?” crisis. Trust me, you’ll want data for train schedules.
• Pack Light: Kyoto’s streets are best explored on foot. No one wants to lug a giant suitcase up temple steps.

Fun Facts & Local Trivia

• Kyoto was Japan’s capital for over a thousand years—talk about living in the shadow of your glorious past.
• Locals are known for being polite but sometimes reserved. Don’t take it personally if they don’t gush over your broken Japanese.
• Geisha (and maiko) still roam Gion, but spotting one is like winning a cultural lottery—if you do, no paparazzi, please.
• Matcha-flavored everything is practically a religion here. Ice cream, lattes, even beer—Kyoto’s got you covered.

Best Time to Visit

Cherry blossom season (late March to early April) is peak postcard perfection—if you’re okay with shoulder-to-shoulder crowds. Otherwise, early March offers a quieter vibe: winter’s chill fades, and you’ll catch a hint of blossoms without full-blown tourist mania.