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Japan Diary: From the Sacred Mountain to Kyoto’s Thousand Gates

The second leg of our trip to Japan was all about tradition and breathtaking landscapes after the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. Here are our favorite moments and a few useful tips if you are planning a similar journey!



Shinkansen and "Black Cat" Logistics

One of our biggest discoveries in Japan was Yamato Transport (Kuroneko). We simply handed over our suitcases at Hotel Monterey in Tokyo, and by the time we arrived in Kyoto, our bags were already waiting in our room. This allowed us to board the Shinkansen bullet train comfortably, hands-free.

  • Tip: Buy your train tickets online in advance—the Suica card won't be enough for this leg!

Mount Fuji: Shrines and an Unforgettable Gesture

At the foot of Mount Fuji, we started among the ancient cedars of the 1,900-year-old Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, then stayed at the Fujisan Onsen Hotel Kaneyamaen. Although I skipped the shared bath due to my tattoos, the traditional Kaiseki dinner, the taiko drum concert, and the beautiful Japanese garden more than made up for it. Not even a minor earthquake could disturb my sleep!

In the morning, clouds unfortunately hid Mount Fuji at the Chureito Pagoda, but our taxi driver's kindness stole the show: he brought us a newspaper with a photo of the mountain so we would still have the experience "on paper."

Kyoto: Where Time Stands Still

In Kyoto, history meets you at every corner. Our most memorable moments:

  • Temples: Zenrin-ji, built without a single nail, where we explored the wonders of traditional joinery in our socks, and the unique, Roman-style aqueduct at Nanzen-ji.

  • Gion and Geishas: After the lanterns of Yasaka Shrine, we strolled down the streets of Hanamikoji-dori. While we didn't spot a geisha this time, we stumbled upon a sword shop featuring authentic weapons with centuries-old certificates.

  • Arashiyama: It’s best to arrive at the famous bamboo grove before 8 AM to beat the crowds. If you are looking for peace and quiet, check out the hidden bamboo grove next to Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple!

The Grand Finale: Fushimi Inari

The crown jewel of our tour was Fushimi Inari. We started our climb into the thick of the iconic orange gates (Senbon Torii), famous from Memoirs of a Geisha. As we reached the Sannomine peak, the crowds vanished, replaced by the mystical silence of altars hidden deep in the forest.

Things That Make Japan... Japan

  • Gachapon: Capsule toy vending machines powered by 100-yen coins—beware, highly addictive!

  • Smart Toilets: They do everything from heated seats to playing discrete "water splashing" sounds. Don't forget to use the designated toilet slippers!

  • Smoking: Strictly prohibited on the street, only allowed inside designated glass-walled smoking booths.

  • Cuteness Factor: We wrapped up our trip at a fennec fox petting café—an incredibly soft experience!

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