Kyoto, one of the most famous and popular places in Japan, has attracted many people now and then with its historical townscape and national heritages such as Kinkakuji, Ginkakuji, and Kiyomizudera. Especially in late November, the number of tourists visiting the ancient city is at its peak for the aesthetic scenery of colored leaves. Let's take a 1 day walk in Kyoto, the city where you find the good old Japan.

10:00 A.M.

Known for Japan's oldest large triple gate with the title of National Treasure, Tofukuji has also been famous for its aesthetic view of Tsuten momiji: looking at beautifully colored momiji from the compound, we were rooted to the spot for a while...ok, this is still the very beginning of our exploration!

11:30 A.M.

After 10 minutes by train from Keihan Tofukuji Station, we arrived at Keihan Sanjo Station. Walking along Sanjo-Dori toward the east for about 10 minutes, there we found a stylish street with many kimono and Japanese fabric boutiques or Japanese craft shops. If you are looking for nice Japanese gifts for your friends, this is where you find your favorite.

0:00 P.M.

Now it's time for lunch! At Kokoraya, fresh Kyoto-brand vegetables (as known as Kyo-yasai) were neatly lined up outside the restaurant, welcoming us into the renovated machiya housing. After taking off our shoes and settling down to a table, we ordered a set meal of light Kyoto-style home cooking called "Obanzai." They were absolutely delicious!!

1:00 P.M.

After filling up our stomach, we decided to go(do)window shopping to get some exercise. tententen is a store where you can find a variety of kimonos and accessories in modern Japanese style. The lady in kimono is a shop assistant.
http://www.ten3.jp/

1:30 P.M.

A very traditional Japanese paper lantern caught my eyes! From Japanese-style T-shirts and Yuzen-dyed Hawaiian shirts to impressive accessories, Kodaishin offers very unique items with unconventional logos and patterns. All the made-in-Kyoto items could make a great souvenir for those who are not satisfied with kimonos.
http://www/koromo-kyoto.com/

2:00 P.M.

Apparently, the building looks like 'just a building,' but once you walked in, you may notice that there are many different shops. To shop around all the stores from the first floor to the fifth, take the stairs and enjoy the cute drawings on the wall.

3:30 P.M.

Feeling a little hungry, we visited Nishiki Ichiba to grab snacks. At the kitchen of Kyoto, we bought Kyo-yasai and pickled vegetables made of the veggies. This is also a great place to find special products that are unique to Kyoto.

If you are in a mood for more relaxing trip, then you must visit Arashiyama. During autumn their picturesque scenery of colored leaves is worth seeing regardless of thousands of tourists. For couples, this may be the best date spot during the season though there is an urban legend saying the couple would break up if they take a boat at the lake.
Lucky me! We just saw Maiko-san!