Chasing Sakura - Japan (19) - Nara, Kyoto, and Osaka

Busy is such a lame excuse so I am just going to say I have been slacking lately... (honestly I have been quite busy lately... and it looks like it's only gonna get busier from here on...)

Yuuki, Gion (遊亀 祇園店)

As the tofu restaurant my friend wanted is closed, we strolled along  Hanamikoji (花見小路) to see if there is anything that interests us.  When we were finally too tired to walk anymore, we found two gentlemen sitting in front of this izakaya.  It looks crowded inside so we decided to give it a try.  At first, one of my friends was worried that it might be too expensive / the portion will be too small.  It turns out we did not have to worry about either of that at all!

Chasing Sakura - Japan (3) - Kyoto: Kiyomizu Temple: Special Night Viewing

I made it a point to come here for the special night viewing at Kiyomizu Temple during this trip.  I have heard great things about it and can't wait to see it for myself.  It did not disappoint and I strongly recommend anyone who is visiting Kyoto during those dates to come here as well.

Yamamoto Menzo (手打ちうどん 山元麺蔵)

I am not exaggerating if I tell you this is one of my favorite restaurants in Kyoto - one that I am willing to stand in line for 2 hours on a hot and sunny day.  If you love udon, you must give this place a shot.  (Note:  My review could be biased since I love udon.)  I still recall how much dedication the udon chef put into rinsing the udon in ice water!

This place is busy from the moment it opens till it closes, that's 11:00 to 19:45 every day, 6 days a week.  Imagine how many pounds of udon (and ice water) this place goes through in a day...  they have my respect.  /Salute!

Believe it or not, I discovered this place from Google maps
(I was looking at the street view when trying to locate a different place)

I saw the line on that photo and that sparked my interest.
During my last visit to Kyoto, I passed by it 3 times during different time of the day.
There was always a line.
I decided to stand in the queue and find out for myself what's so special about this place.
Food was delicious and I have been wanting to come back ever since.

Chasing Sakura - Japan (2) - Kyoto

I can't believe I am only starting this series... after all, I am back for almost 2 months!  Hopefully, I will finish this series before leaving for my next trip~  (I am going to Beijing / Inner Mongolia in July for 10 days!!! woot!!)

After much research, the Haruka+ICOCA combo is still the best value to visit Kyoto from the airport!

Traveling Solo - Japan (8)

Day 6: Last day in Kyoto.  Even though I am so tired from all the walking and went to so many places, I felt like I barely saw Kyoto.  In fact, I felt like I barely saw anything!!!  Now I understand why so many traveler keep returning.

Traveling Solo - Japan (6)

Starting from this post, you will be able to view more of my pictures on flickr.com...

Day 4 - I took the bus from K's house to J-Hoppers.  Although the 2 hostels are relatively close (only a 10 minute walk), I didn't feel like walking.  After checking in, I asked the staff if I would have enough time to visit Nijo Castle before heading to Kibune and Kurama.  She said Kibune and Kurama are small towns so I shouldn't have any problem. Yeah!

Traveling Solo - Japan (5)

Day 3 - I met up with my new friend from CS at the Kyoto Station and a French couple joined us as well.  We got to Umahoru and walked to Torroko Kameoka Station and successfully bought our cart #5 tickets on the Sagano Sightseeing train! yay!  (in fact, those were the last 4 seats)

Traveling Solo - Japan (4)

Day 2 - I was waken up by one of the roommates and I was glad... apparently, I had forgotten to set my alarm!  Originally I planned to move before I start my day sightseeing but since it was already 830am by the time I was ready, I decided to move later in the afternoon... Hindsight #1:  should have waited after the Monster Street Festival!

Traveling Solo - Japan (3)

Let me just go ahead and say this:  I love traveling alone!!!  I am not sure if I wanted to go anywhere with anyone else anymore...

Here are some advantages on solo traveling: 

1. You get to see everything at your own pace.
2. You will only compromise with yourself.
3. You are more likely to find help from locals.
4. You are more likely to meet like-minded travelers.
5. You will be able to observe and see more.