Travel with Lara & Luca: Kyoto

Join Lara and Luca on a charming journey through the storied streets of Kyoto in this latest episode of “Travel with Lara and Luca”! From the gilded temples to the culinary feats of traditional Kaiseki, our hosts unveil the secrets of Japan’s former capital with wit, warmth, and expert insight. Whether you’re planning a trip or just dreaming of cherry blossoms, this episode is your portal to the poetic heart of Kyoto. Dive into historical tales, laugh at quirky facts, and gather priceless travel tips from our seasoned duo. Don’t forget to hit like, subscribe, and share your Kyoto stories in the comments below!

🎌 Timestamps:
0:00 – Introduction: Greetings from Kyoto
7:00 – Iconic Sights: Temples, Castles & Gardens
12:44 – Delicious Cuisine: Savoring Kyoto’s Flavors
20:14 – Hidden Gems: Discovering Kyoto’s Secrets
25:44 – Must-See Places: Kyoto’s Unmissable Treasures
31:28 – Weird Facts: Kyoto’s Quirky Side Revealed
37:06 – History: A Journey Through Kyoto’s Past
42:30 – Expert Travel Tips: Navigating Kyoto Like a Local
47:48 – Side Excursions: Adventures Beyond the City
52:40 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts: Farewell to Kyoto

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This podcast was produced using artificial intelligence and refined by human editors konichiwa Travelers and welcome aboard another episode of travel with Lara and Luca I’m your host Lara with my ever enthusiastic co-pilot that’s me Luca though I must confess the only thing I’m piloting today is my imagination straight to the heart of

Japan absolutely luuka today we’re embarking on a virtual Journey to the Charming historic and endlessly fascinating city of Kyoto a city where every step is a dance with history and every breath is a lesson in culture well put as always Luca you know our listeners might be expecting this but

Every time we talk about Kyoto I feel like I’m encased within a page of a murakami novel where The Surreal meets the Serene speaking of serene let’s not forget Kyoto was once Japan’s capital a place where Emperors reigned and the gisha danced under weeping cherry blossoms or Samurai walk the night right

Luca so mysterious ious and Majestic and speaking of stories isn’t it fascinating how Kyoto has been this incredible Muse for filmmakers and storytellers across the world oh definitely classic films like Lost in Translation and Memoirs of Aisha come to mind they capture not only the essence of Kyoto but that

Untranslatable feeling you know what the Japanese would call monoa the somewhat sweet sadness of things that’s pure poetry Luca and I can’t help but think of Kyoto as a Living Museum but not the kind you tiptoe around in hushed tones rather one where every Alleyway and zen garden invites you to

Become a part of the exhibit a part of Kyoto’s ongoing story I remember tiptoeing though Lara not around a museum but trying to navigate around those tatami mats without stepping on the borders talk about a cultural obstacle course a true test of agility and respect but that’s kyodo for you

Blending Elegance with etiquette in such a seamless way and since we promised our listeners chitchat with tidbits of culture we shall chat and chat we shall but first a quick nod to our wonderful Community hello to all you Globe Trotters tuning in from far and wide your messages about our last episode

Were like virtual hugs absolutely heartwarming we read every single one and your travel Tales make us feel connected and sometimes give us serious travel Envy today we hope to fill your minds with picturesque visions of Kyoto will spark your wander lust let’s dive in with your permission dear Lara into

The warm Waters of Kyoto’s Essence permission granted Captain Luca you guys can’t see it but he literally just saluted so formal what can I say I’m feeling the Kyoto spirit all right listen up folks if you’ve got a soft spot for temples shrines and spirits of the past then Kyoto is your spiritual

Haven and if you’re hungry for some of the best culinary experiences a Cuisine that’s been finded over centuries then hold on to your chopsticks because Kyoto’s kitchens are on another level of epicurian delight watch out for our next segment I might just try to convince you that tofu is the secret to Eternal

Happiness good luck with that but before we tickle your taste buds we’ll Revel in the iconic SES that make Kyoto a jewel in the crown of Japan picture this Majestic golden Pavilions Stone Gardens that Echo the cosmos and Vermilion Gates that lead to nowhere and everywhere in Kyoto’s spiritual landscape that pretty much

Sums up Fushimi and arasa I can’t I can’t wait to talk about the fox Spirits guarding the place they say they are messengers of Inari the god of rice and let’s not forget rice in Japan isn’t just food it’s pretty much a Divine gift so we’re basically walking on hallowed

Grounds when we stroll through those Gates speaking of divine we’ll take you down the path Less Traveled to the hidden gems of Kyoto where silence speaks volumes and the hidden places that locals cherish and tourists sometimes Overlook there’s nothing quite like finding that secluded Garden or that quaint Tea House tucked away from

The bustle of tourist traffic Kyoto is brimming with Secrets waiting to be discovered and when it comes to mustsee places we’re not just talking Grand temples and sprawling palaces although they are stunning no doubt we’re also going to give you the scoop on where to catch that perfect sunrise or sunset

Said right laara couldn’t agree more the play of light on the old wooden structures of Kyoto is like watching a live painting every hour brings a new shade a new mood to the city’s canvas ooh I like that metaphor speaking of light and shade let’s cast some on the

Weird facts of Kyoto the ones that might just make you look twice at this city of tradition oh the weird and wonderful I can’t wait to delve into that from vending machines that dispense let’s say unusual items to the city’s love affair with everything from pickles to video

Games the quirky side of Kyoto is endlessly fascinating then of course we can’t skip the rich tapestry of Kyoto’s history the dynasties the power struggles the art and the architecture that has weathered the passage of time and have stories etched into every Groove and to make sure you all get the

Most out of your virtual and hopefully soon physical journey to Kyoto we’ve got expert travel tips think of them as your friendly locals advice just without the local I mean we’re as local as two chatty podcast hosts can be right exactly we’re going to arm you with all

The knowhow to navigate the etiquette mine field that can be traditional Kyoto as well as how to get around what to pack and where to stay though I’m pretty sure some would love to stay forever in Kyoto Lara you’re not wrong Luca and we’re not just sticking to the heart of

Kyoto our side excursions will take you to the equal fly enchanting neighborhoods and towns that offer their own histories flavors and charm so keep that itinerary open and lastly but certainly not least our conclusion and final thoughts Kyoto style expect poetry musings and maybe a few heartfelt

Canaras as we wrap up our journey through this mesmerizing City and who knows Luca might serenate us with his best rendition of J-pop just kidding or am I now that would be a showstopper but for now let’s stick to what we know best sharing our love for travel culture and

The Magical city of Kyoto so grab your virtual suitcase listeners because we’re about to take off welcome to travel with Lara and Luca Kyoto Edition stick around don’t go anywhere unless it’s towards the tea poot for a fresh brew we’ll be right back after this metaphorical sip

Of green tea stay tuned see you in a Flash Travelers and we’re back freshly brewed green tea in hand you’re listening to travel with Lara and Luca and today’s episode is all about the enchanting Kyoto a city that’s like a liveaction scroll painting where every corner is an invitation to wonder let’s start with the iconic sights that

Have become symbols of Kyoto’s enduring Beauty leading the pack is the one the only King Kakui ah yes the golden Pavilion imagine a structure covered in pure gold Leaf shimmering like a mirage on the edge of a calm Pond a sight that can make you forget to breathe for a

Second I remember that moment I’m pretty sure I heard a soft gasp from every person that came into view of King Kakui for the first time standing there reflecting the sun it’s as if you’ve walked into a dream or I dare say a scene straight from a Miyazaki film it’s

A masterpiece isn’t it for those who might not know King Kakui or rokuan is a Zen Buddhist temple in Northern Kyoto and it’s literally the poster child for the city but Luca do you remember the history it’s been through quite a lot including being burned down several

Times oh yes the Phoenix temple always rising from the ashes the most recent reconstruction was in 1955 after a fanatic monk burned it down but you wouldn’t guess its tumultuous past from its Serene presence from the golden Beauty we moved to a contrasting Temple Jin Kakui the silver Pavilion

Interestingly it’s it’s not covered in silver but was intended to be it presents wabisabi the beauty of imperfection and impermanence a stark contrast to King kaku’s ostentation and can we talk about the Sea of sand the Gin shadan where the gravel is Rak to represent the sea while

Mount Fuji is symbolized by a perfectly sculpted cone of sand called ketsui it’s a minimalist lovers Paradise it teaches you that there’s Beauty in Simplicity in the unfinished the evolving a lesson an Aesthetics one could carry through life Kyoto is certainly a teacher and a spiritual guide too let’s Veer to

Fushimi and ARA home to the thousands of Vermilion Tory Gates the place pulses with a sacred energy absolutely those Tory gates are like energizing portals they snake up Mount dinari and their donations from individuals and companies hence the inscriptions you know those walks are a meditative Journey as you

Ascend through the gates leaving behind the noise of the world yeah just you and the rustling of leaves the brush of your sleeve against the Tor an experience steeped in Serenity and those Fox statues The Messengers of Inari they seem to keep watch over the pilgrims with an enigmatic smile Fox is smiling

Now that’s an image another place where Smiles are guaranteed is arashiyama and its incredible Bamboo Grove imagine being surrounded by these towering stalks of bamboo a green Cathedral there’s a sound there right a a sort of music as the bamboo sways a rustling that feels both ancient and alive to

Walk among those giants is to understand the depth of Nature’s Beauty and for our listeners with a flare for the dramatic there’s always kiyomizudera that stage likee terce offers some heart-stopping views of the city I mean that’s where the phrase to jump off the stage at kiyomizu comes

From right right you are it’s a testament to taking a leap even though now You’ just be diving into a of tourists taking selfies but the Temple’s magnificence isn’t diminished it’s a place that invites contemplation and a connection to something greater than ourselves speaking of connection Kyoto’s bridges are a literal and metaphorical

Connection there’s the iconic tosuko bridge in arashiyama which translates to Bridge Crossing the moon and it’s framed by Hills and cherry blossoms or Autumn Leaves depending on the season romantic isn’t it almost tailor made for poetry or confessions of Love Of course over the centuries it has witnessed everything from historical

Processions to modern day dramas Kyoto is a stage set for stories dramas and moments that capture the heart nijo castle with its Nightingale floors designed to sing at the slightest step to alert of ninja Intruders plays its part in this Symphony ah those chirping floors it’s like nio Castle has its own

Soundtrack and talk about opulence the carvings the gold leaf the gardens every Shogun wanted to leave a mark and they certainly did it’s like walking through the pages of History each room a chapter of power conspiracy and culture well speaking of a different kind of culture let’s not forget the cultural treasure

That is the Philosopher’s path it’s a canalside walk lined with hundreds of cherry trees and it’s named for Nishida Kitaro an influential Japanese philosopher who meditated on that route I imagine the cherry blossoms get a bit philosophical too when they fall into the canal contemplating their ephemeral

Existence it’s the kind of place that invites deep thoughts and yet it’s simple a path some trees a canal and the sky above simple yet profound Luca just like our podcast but before we descend too deep into our philosophies let’s take a brief interlude when we return we’ll dive into

The culinary Traditions that will make your mouth water and your spirit hungry for more hungry for KY we’ll be right back after this short break stay tuned for an exploration of flavors that will take your taste buds on a trip of their Own welcome back to travel with Lara and Luca while our first segment Was A Feast for the eyes get ready because we’re about to serve up A Feast for the soul and stomach Kyoto’s delectable Cuisine that’s right laara we’re talking about food so good it’s been blessed by the

Gods or at least it tastes that way let’s start with the heart of Kyoto’s culinary art kaiseki oh kaiseki the epitome of Japanese Hot Cuisine this isn’t just eating this is a journey through seasonal Landscapes with dishes that are as much a treat for the pallet

As they are for the eyes remember my first kaiseki experience Lara I was like a kid in a candy store if that store served meticulously arranged dishes with oddly shaped vegetables I couldn’t name and that’s the beauty of it kaiseki is a poetic expression a symphony where every

Course plays a note the use of local ingredients is a tribute to Nature’s diversity and the preparation well that’s a testament to the chef’s Mastery Mastery indeed every dish tells a story connected to the land the season to Traditions old as the city itself the symbolic meanings the textures The

Culinary ethos it’s an education on a plate isn’t it absolutely kaiseki is a philosophy a way of life almost but let’s not forget the simpler pleasures like yudofu a Kyoto winter favorite Udu or boiled tofu now there’s a dish that embodies Zen Simplicity a dish that

Shows less is more after all in Kyoto tofu is royalty and served in a hot pot right at your table royalty with a humble charm it’s a warming soothing dish that really brings out the subtle flavor of the tofu especially when it’s made with that famously soft Kyoto water

Served with just a touch of soy for dipping it’s Perfection speaking of famous water there’s no talking about Kyoto Cuisine without mentioning matcha the finely ground green tea That’s whisked to Perfection any matcha Enthusiast will tell you there’s matcha and there’s Kyoto matcha the matcha you find here will spoil all other green

Teas for you it’s Rich it’s creamy and it’s got a slight natural sweetness to it it’s like drinking a field of green and if if you’re into matcha or if we’ve just turned you into a fan then you’ve got to try everything matcha flavored in Kyoto we’re talking matcha ice cream

Matcha noodles matcha cakes matcha beer I remember that one it was an unexpected twist on a pub night a bit like you Luca full of unexpected twists I’ll take that as a compliment and let’s not forget Lara the sushi Koto may not be on the coast but it has a centuries long

Tradition of serving up some of the best sushi through impeccable preservation techniques that’s right Kyoto Sushi variants like sabui mackerel pressed onto sushi rice are a testament to the Ingenuity of Kyoto chefs who historically found ways to keep the seafood fresh without modern refrigeration Innovation and tradition

Hand inand just like a sushi roll and for those of our listeners who enjoy a little pickme up snack Kyoto’s got you covered with suimono Japanese pickles suono isn’t your regular pickle it’s a it’s a world of crunchy Tangy Sweet and Umami flavors each one is a surprise

Kind of like unearthing treasures at a flea market and speaking of treasures there’s none quite so sweet as Kyoto’s wagashi traditional Japanese Confections these are not just sweets they’re little edible artworks made to a company te from colorful Mochi to delicate mju and more wagashi Taps into Japan’s natural

And cultural Beauty bringing the seasons into sugar bean paste and rice flour it’s culinary poetry really oh and for our listeners who like something Savory you’ve got to try okonomiyaki Kyoto style it’s like a pancake filled with all sorts of goodness and you can add toppings to your heart’s content it’s street food

That gives you a warm hug and while we’re in the comfort food neighborhood let’s not forget about the humble Ramen in Kyoto every bowl is a tribute to the local pallet a lighter broth maybe with a hint of soy or fish and always the perfect balance of topping things a bowl

Of Kyoto Ramen is a bowl of home even if you’ve never had it before it’s that welcoming and every visitor must try Kyoto’s version of kaiseki called shoin rori which is the Vegetarian Cuisine of the local Zen Buddhist temples it’s as much A Feast for the spirit as it is for

The taste buds making use of seasonal produce and tofu in the most inventive ways yes Shin rori it almost seems wrong to say eat these dishes it’s more like experiencing them honoring the effort put into avoiding waste and the respect for the ingredients used you leave the meal feeling enlightened and not just

Saded plus the act of eating shoin rori can be a reflection on the Buddhist principles that underpin Kyoto’s culture respect for all living things harmony with nature and inner peace that’s what you can digest along with your meal inner peace and a full stomach I’d call

That a winning combination but if we are talking about combinations we have to mention the unique dining setting known as kawadoko dining platform set over the flowing Waters of the camo river kawadoko is a summer tradition that blends the refreshing coolness of the river with the pleasure of fine dining

The sound of the water the evening Breeze a dish of chilled s noodles can life get any better I think the only time it gets better is during Sakura season when everything has a touch of cherry blossom there’s that gentle flurry Petals in the air and it’s not just visually

Astounding it flavors the food too sakuramochi anyone oh yes wrapped in a pickled Cherry Leaf it’s sweet and salty and all things Springtime in a bite but as we celebrate the seasons let’s not forget the local drinking scene Kyoto’s sake is something else brewed using that soft

Kyoto water it’s smooth and refined just like the city itself refined indeed and sometimes infused with local fruits or flowers there is no Japan trip or Kyoto episode complete without raising a glass of sake kpai Kai and speaking of sipping something delicious let’s talk about the coffee

Scene in Kyoto it’s a lovely jux deposition of old and new with traditional tea houses and artisinal coffee shops coexisting peacefully peacefully and with much caffeine the coffee shops often in repurposed traditional Kyoto houses bring the art of coffee to a new level slow drip handp siphon for coffee lovers it’s an

Irresistible draw like everything in Kyoto even the coffee is served with a side of History sitting in those cafes you’re surrounded by the past but sipping on the present it’s an extraordinary experience and that’s Kyoto in a nutshell isn’t it an extraordinary experience at every turn

Okay Lara I think it’s safe to say I’m officially hungry now fortunately our listeners can grab a snack during this break we’ll be back with more Kyoto Delights shortly stay tuned as we head into the hidden gems of this ancient city we’ll do and don’t hold back on the

Kyoto snacks dear friends catch you after the Break and we’ve return to travel with Lara and Luca your personal guide through the wonders of Kyoto and Beyond if you’ve ticked off all the famous sites and sampled the Myriad of Kyoto flavors you might be wondering what’s next what’s next is the path Less Traveled Luca it’s the quiet Allure of

Kyoto’s hidden gems the tucked away Treasures that aren’t thronged by the typical tourist crowds let’s start with one of my favorites the small but enchanting Kawai KIRO house ah the residence turned Museum of the prolific Potter Kawai KIRO it’s truly a Hidden Gem tucked away in a residential neighborhood it’s a peaceful space

Displaying kiro’s Works along with the Kiln he used in his craft stepping into into his world feels like you’ve been invited into someone’s life the beautiful folk art the warmth of his Woodfired Pottery it’s intimate and inspiring much like the tetsugaku noichi or philosopher’s path we mentioned earlier but there’s another spot along

That path that doesn’t get as much attention the honenin temple it’s smaller and quieter than its neighbors with its moss covered Gates feeling like something from a forgotten time completely agree it’s a tranquil Oasis perfect for contemplation I remember the sand drawings there meticulously Rak to represent water flowing they truly know

How to embrace Nature’s art in Kyoto they do indeed and with smaller crowds it feels like you’ve discovered your own personal slice of Kyoto that’s the thing about these hidden gems they offer a sense of personal Discovery and speaking of personal Discovery let’s not forget the entertainment districts that were

The Beating Heart of hanamachi culture while Gian is famous areas like Pono and miaga watcho are equally appealing with their narrow Alleyways and hidden ochaya or tea houses those alleys could tell stories couldn’t they and if you’re lucky you might just catch a glimpse of

A moo or gisha on their way to an engagement it’s a fleeting glimpse into a world that seems like it belongs to another era a world so rich in Tradition and discipline but let’s go even further off the beaten path what about the small independent movie houses you mentioned

Earlier laara oh yes you mean the ones like the Kyoto Minami Ken where you can catch a film surrounded by history and film Buffs alike the selection usually includes classic films arth house hits and those under the radar pieces that make you think that’s Kyoto for you a city that appreciates the delicate

Balance between the mainstream and the alternative sometimes the real is as thought-provoking as the real in this city I see what you did there another place that gets less foot traffic but is absolutely worth the visit is the Kyoto botanical gardens it’s a sprawling space brimming with flora and it’s got an

Impressive Conservatory oh the conservatory is like walking into a living rainbow with exotic flowers and plants that VI for your attention it’s impressive during any season and Kam Hanami season it’s quieter than the more famous spots for cherry blossom viewing it’s a great tip Laura away from the

Hustle closer to the petals and Nature’s scent and let’s not Overlook Kyoto’s love for Artisan crafts the Lesser visited shops and adeles are where Kyoto’s craft Traditions come alive in places like the Kyoto handycraft Center yes filled with textiles lacquerware Ceramics a collective celebration of hands shaping Beauty Plus they often

Offer workshops where you can try your hand at making your own Kyoto craft it’s a souvenir that comes with a story you’ve literally molded yourself from your hands to your heart those are the keepsakes that last a lifetime just like the memories you make in one of Kyoto’s Secret Gardens or

Hidden temples that await your presence to be remembered remembered and Alive like the Raku shisha the Hut of Fallen Persimmons it’s close to the Sagano bamboo forest and belong to the Haiku poet mukai Kai the walls of the Hut are inscribed with his poems it’s a testament to the fleeting moments captured in

Verse and each inscription is a window into the soul this is Kyoto’s Essence hidden yet everpresent awaiting those who seek it for our adventurous listeners if you’re up for a bit of a climb venture to Yoshi minera temple perched on the mountain side of Kyoto the paths less trotten the silence and

The scenic viewpoints make it a rewarding Escape your effort is rewarded tenfold since the views offer a Vista of Kyoto spread out like a tapestry below it gives perspective in every sense of the word perspective is one thing you’ll walk away with after exploring Kyoto’s hidden alleys and lesser-known

Locals these places are teaming with stories of the past alongside the vibrant pulse of the present and before we pulse into our next segment let’s take a moment if you’ve just joined us or if you’ve been with us since the beginning we want to say thank you thank

You for seeking the hidden gems for traveling with us for being curious about the world your curiosity is the best companion on any journey we’ll be right back with more Kyoto Adventures after this quick Pause welcome back dear listeners to travel with Lara and Luca as we continue to meander through the mystical streets of Kyoto those hidden gems might have felt like Kyoto’s best-kept Secrets but now we’re stepping into the light with the mustsee places that give this city its Timeless Allure that’s right Luca these

Are the places you simply can’t miss the landmarks that stand as proud symbols of Kyoto’s Rich Heritage let’s start with a place where even time seems to stand still ran and its world-renowned Rock Garden Ran’s Rock Garden is a riddle wrapped in an enigma isn’t it 15 stones

Placed so that from any given vantage point at least one will always be hidden from view a Zen mystery that invites contemplation exactly it’s said that only through attaining Enlightenment can one view all 15 stones simultaneously no small feet but the quest towards that Enlightenment makes this a mustsee

Destination offering a sense of peace and inner reflection for those seeking beauty of a lush and vibrant kind we turn our gaze to The Gardens of saihoji better known as Cadera the Moss Temple this UNESCO world heritage site is a velvet carpet of various Hues of green creating a Dreamscape only nature could

Paint walking through Cadera is like entering a living painting indeed the Lush Moss blankets the ground in trees dappling the light in a dance of Shadows and sunbeams it’s a magical must sea but remember visitations are by appointment only let’s not forget another mustsee UNESCO site the hyen shrine its

Architecture and Vermilion Tor are reminiscent of the ancient Imperial Palace and the shrine’s gardens are a San of Tranquility all year round with each season unveiling new colors and Flora those Gardens are a Four Seasons painting especially the weeping cherry trees in the spring it’s as if each

Petal holds a droplet of History waiting to be released with the gentlest Breeze a stroll through Kyoto is a stroll through time but no historical Journey would be complete without a visit to sanjusangendo this Temple houses a thousand life-sized statues of the Thousand armed Kanan each with its own

Unique face flanked by 28 Guardian deities the sheer scale is awe inspiring it’s the longest wooden structure in Japan stretching unbroken for 120 M stepping inside is a surreal experience as golden eyes seem to watch over you with a calm protective gaze from Serenity to bustling life the mustsee

Nishiki Market known as Kyoto’s Pantry here the sizzle of street food the colorful array of local produce and the Charming calls of vendors create a symphony of the senses there’s something about the hustle and bustle of Nishiki Market that’s almost comforting each shop a story each taste a memory to be

Made this is where Kyoto’s culinary heart beats the loudest and you can sample everything from skewered Seafood to matcha flavored desserts and while we’re on the topic of unique experiences let’s glide into the realm of affordable luxury with a mustsee experience spending a night in a Ron a traditional

Japanese in it’s the ultimate Kyoto experience you slip into a yucata Savor a private kaiseki meal in your room and sleep on futons laid out on tatami mats a night in a Ron is a love letter to the traditional Japanese way of life and after sinking into a futon let’s rise

With the Dawn and head to mariama park known as the oldest Park in Kyoto it comes to life in cherry blossom season but it possesses Timeless charm regardless of when you visit that Central weeping cherry tree especially when lit up at night during Sakura season Luca it’s like a beacon calling

Out to every romantic soul and if it’s romance you’re after then you must see yasaka pagota especially in the Twilight hours walking through the Aged streets with the pagot silhouette against the Indigo Sky it’s enough to make you a poet even if you’ve never penned a verse in your life indeed

Kyoto does inspire poetry but let’s not leave out the Intrepid explorers of among our listeners those who seek a must-see Vista will find their heart’s desire at top mount dianji The Climb is a pilgrimage in its own right leading to a breathtaking view of Kyoto ah the dianji Overlook waiting

There as the city unfurls Below in a tapestry of tiled roofs modern buildings and Timeless temples you can see why Kyoto has captured so many hearts over the centuries it’s a view and a climb well worth the effort and speaking of climes let’s not Overlook kiyomizu daa temple perched on

The wooden stage that juts out over the hillside there amidst the Temple’s Grandeur and the panoramic views of Kyoto one truly feels lifted to new heights it’s not just a temple it’s an experience a threshold between Earth and Sky the water from the otoa notaki waterfall below the main hall is said to

Have wish granting Powers I sipped from those sacred streams and I believe I wished for More Travel which has certainly come true oh a wish most dear to our wandering Souls Luca Kyoto is itself a wish granted to every traveler who sets foot within its Embrace whether they sip from sacred

Waters or simply breathe its air and let’s not rush away from this Embrace just yet we’re going to take a short break but when we come back we’ll delve into the enigmatic and fascinating weird facts you never knew about Kyoto stick with Us welcome back to travel with Lara and Luca where Kyoto’s veiled secrets and Untold anecdotes await we’ve marveled at the must-see places and now it’s time to tilt our heads squint our eyes and say huh as we dig into some weird facts about this historical Hub oh huh it’s

Just the beginning Lara prepare to be intrigued and maybe even baffled the kind of baffled that makes you love Kyoto even more if that’s possible so let’s kick things off with a fact about something everyone in Kyoto seems to adore vending machines ah yes the trusty vending machine in Kyoto and indeed

Throughout Japan these metal boxes of Joy can dispense almost anything from hot meals to umbrellas and my personal favorite poetry books imagine needing a haiku for the road and there’s a vending machine for that only in Kyoto would a vending machine quench your thirst for verse and here’s a little known tidbit

Kyoto is home to the only vending machine in the world that sells bamboo yes bamboo you’re not bamboozling our listeners are you Luca no bamboozles here it’s bamboo shoots to be exact ready to be pickled boiled or added into your favorite dish for some extra crunch well if bamboo doesn’t twist your taste

Buds how about kitkats but not just any kitkats in Kyoto they’ve taken these chocy treats to another level with flavors inspired by the city’s tea culture we’re talking matcha of various strengths and even h gicha roasted green tea it’s sweet it’s slightly bitter it’s Kyoto in a bite but here’s a fact that’s

Both sweet and sobering Kyoto has not one but two love Stone shrines it’s said that if you can walk between the stones with your eyes closed Your Love wish will come true jishu Shrine is a popular spot for this and watching L struck visitors or hopeful singles attempting

The walk is as endearing as it is telling of human nature always seeking that connection now for a curious fact with a dollop of spookiness Kyoto’s yasui kagu Shrine houses a power Stone said to sever ties and mend relationships you crawl through a hole in the middle of the stone to

Break off bad relationships or begin good ones it’s weird it’s wonderful and it’s uniquely Kyoto speaking of unique connections let’s not forget the Imperial Palace Gardens where you can Marvel at trees with Witnesses several trees in the gardens have been married in a Shinto ceremony called shinoku and muui to pray for

Prosperity and growth tree matrimony a leafy love affair and while we’re on the topic of plants here’s a weird morsel did you know Kyoto is home to a rather rebellious Botanical odity the weeping peach tree unlike its orderly cherry blossom cousins this tree is wild in its spring display branches hanging loose

And flowers in a chaotic burst of color disorder in a sea of Harmony that’s our weeping peach tree now here’s a shift from Flora to fauna Kyoto’s ni Castle is famous for its Nightingale floors that sang under the shogun’s feet but this chirpy alarm system also piqued the interest of local

Cats drawn to the castle by the birdlike sounds imagine being a cat and thinking you found the biggest flock of birds only to discover a bunch of confused guards but there’s more animal weirdness where that came from did you know that Kyoto’s toi Temple becomes home to a

Flee F Market on the 21st of each month said to be started by a monk to fend off real fleas a flea market for flea prevention now that’s using your temple Noggin if only our flea markets could ward off actual pests so poetically and speaking of poetic there’s the rather bizarre practice at

Mariama Park of hanging little strips of poetry on trees like wishes fluttering in the wind a forest of poetry surely the trees must approve and now for a quick swerve back into history here’s a fact that’s a heads scratcher Kyoto’s measured response to conflict during the

Onin War a civil war that raised much of medieval Kyoto to the ground Waring factions agreed to refrain from destroying the city’s aqueducts to keep the sake breweries operational priorities Luca without water there’s no sake and without sake well what’s the point of winning a war speaking of

Beverages here’s a twist for our literary afficionados there’s a quirk tur little bar in Kyoto called bar Kafka which as you might guess is inspired by France Kafka it’s a place where you can sip a cocktail and ruminate over the existential questions of life that’s Kyoto for you a Haven where even the

Curiosities hold depth and meaning but let me cap off our weird facts with a little modern eccentricity Kyoto is unofficially known as Japan’s console Capital it’s the Cradle of video game giants like Nintendo which started here as a playing card company over a century ago A Perfect Blend of past and future

Culture and play that’s our Kyoto never a dull moment whether you’re seeking hallowed temples or high-tech escapism dear listeners as we let these weird and wonderful facts settle in we Hope they’ve added yet another layer of charm to your impression of Kyoto stay with us because after this short break Lara and

I will take you through the centuries old tapestry that’s become the history of Kyoto tales of Samurai Sears and Shoguns await you don’t go Anywhere and we’re back to continue our time traveling Expedition through Kyoto on travel with Lara and Luca every street corner every Temple and Shrine every gust of wind carrying pedals across the path Whispers Tales from the bygone days that’s very poetic of you Lara and rightfully so Kyoto’s

History isn’t just a timeline it’s an epic narrative etched into the fabric of the city let’s start at the beginning shall we the birth of a capital called heno the Tranquil Capital back in 794 ad a captivating beginning indeed the city was laid out in a grid pattern that

Mimicked the Grandeur of the Tang Dynasty’s changan in China signifying power order and Cosmic Harmony but it wasn’t all just Grand edifices in courtly Poise Kyoto then hyan Kio soon became a cultural cauldron brimming with literature art and poetry the tale of Jenji by Murasaki shikibu a classic of

Japanese literature and arguably the world’s first novel was born here within the Imperial courts the hyan period set the foundation for a cultural identity that still permeates every Alleyway and Tea Ceremony to this day but as the centuries turned the city wouldn’t remain just a Wellspring of culture the

Kamakura period ushered in a time of warrior Clans and suddenly Kyoto was in the midst of Samurai Power plays and political Intrigue oh the tales of loyalty betrayal and the Clashing of Swords Kyoto has seen it all among its streets walked figures like minamoto no yoritomo and Tyra no Kori whose legacies

Are as durable as the ancient stones of the city’s temples Wars scarred Kyoto including the Onin War which Luca mentioned earlier a war that lasted a decade and left the city in Ruins but Kyoto like the mythical Phoenix arose from its ashes time and time again resilience is a defining trait of this

City isn’t it and nothing says resilient quite like the unyielding Spirit of the Samurai fast forward to the Ado period and Kyoto became eclipsed economically by Ado modern-day Tokyo however the city never lost its aristocratic Allure and continued being the cultural heart of Japan fast forward again and the Winds of Change gust

Through the streets with the Magi restoration the capital moved to to but Kyoto courageously transformed this seeming setback into a different kind of strength preserving Traditions that could have easily been swept away in the progress of the time preserved they were and thank goodness for that and speaking

Of preservation World War II left much of Japan in Devastation however largely due to its cultural value Kyoto was spared the bombings that so many other cities suffered this thanks to many including the American Secretary of War who reputedly appreciative of its historical and cultural significance Struck it from the list of bombing

Targets and so Lara the history of Kyoto is as much about the near misses as it is about the direct hits it took over the centuries it’s a history steeped in reverence the reverence of the Japanese for their past and the respect of the world for this repository of human

Culture and Heritage it’s a city that has worn many hats Capital cultural Hub arena for political strife and now a custodian of the soul of Japan even as battlecries have long faded into The Whispers of kimono clad moo and gon the memory of those cries still shapes the

Collective psyche of Kyoto now Lara no talk of Kyoto’s history would be complete without mentioning its status as an Imperial City the Imperial family was rooted here for over a millennium and it’s a legacy that continues to shape Kyoto’s Majestic stance from its aristocratic Traditions emerged the Grandeur of the Imperial Palace the

Elegance of the courtly kimonos and Kyoto’s very own distinct dialect which still carries Echoes of refined Court life indeed yet even in its refinement the city has a wild Untamed streak look no further than the fire festivals held here the famous Goan Nook karubi literally sets the mountains around

Kyoto Ablaze with giant flaming kanji and shapes to guide Spirits during obon it’s a spectacle against the night sky where fire purifies and sends off ancestral Spirits a ceremony that also illuminates Kyoto’s enduring dance with the cycles of life and death and so dear listeners Kyoto’s history is vibrant and alive it’s not

Confined to Dusty Toms or forgotten passages it breathes through the streets resounds in the temple bells and continues to shape the city’s Destiny it’s hard not to be moved by a path so rich and enduring as we journey through Kyoto each step we take is a step

Through centuries a tandem walk with all those who’ve come before us but as the Japanese saying goes even the past can be changed by The Narrative so as we continue to share Kyoto’s story even its history evolves a new in the telling as our listeners can surely tell Kyoto is a

Narrative that never really ends after this brief pause we’ll return to share yet more Tales including practical travel tips to help you navigate this historic canvas stay Tuned Once again welcome back to travel with Lara and Luca your go-to podcast for traversing the globe one story at a time now that we’ve immersed ourselves in Kyoto’s Rich past let’s bring you back to the present with some expert travel tips that will help you navigate this

Ancient yet ever so modern city that’s right Lara Kyoto boasts a charm that is as intricate as its narrow lanes and as expansive as its bamboo forests so let’s share our wisdom and make sure your journey through Kyoto is seamless enriching and above all memorable say it

With me it’s time for travel hacks travel hacks all right tip number one when to visit Kyoto is stunning year round but there are two peak Seasons cherry blossom season in the spring and the fiery Maple Leaves season in the fall both are incredibly beautiful but also incredibly crowded so here’s the

Hack consider visiting in the off peak seasons Winter though cold has its own charm with light snow sometimes dusting temples like King Kakui turning it into a golden Wonderland and early summer before the heat kicks in when the city is Lush and the Crowds Are thinner on

The topic of crowds tip number two is all about timing the trick to avoiding those massive groups at popular sites is to go early in the morning or just before closing there’s something quite surreal about having a place like Fushimi andara almost to yourself oh it’s magical but if you do Brave the

Crowds respecting the space and the local Customs is key which brings us to tip number three culture and etiquette Kyoto take Traditions seriously wearing Yukata the right way proper conduct in temples and shrines it’s all essential in showing respect which means for instance not walking in the middle of

The Tory Gates stay to the side it’s where the spirits are said to walk and remember a bow can say a thousand words here learn the gentle art of Boeing it’s a sign of gratitude and respect now tip number four Transportation kodo’s public transport is excellent but it can also

Be a bit let’s say labyrinthine for the uninitiated buses are great for reaching those places that aren’t on the subway lines but for maximum flexibility nothing beats renting a bicycle Kyoto is surprisingly bike friendly and you’ll get to those off the beaten path spots quicker plus there’s something utterly

Delightful about pedaling along the camo River with the breeze in your hair speaking from experience can confirm biking in Kyoto is a joy Here Comes tip number five Embrace convenience stores or Kini as they’re known locally they’re more than a place for a quick snack they lifelines you can buy tickets for local

Attractions use free Wi-Fi withdraw cash and yes indulge in surprisingly tasty food Kini food for the win we’re looking at you onigiri and warm bento box tip number six folks accommodation Kyoto caters to all budgets but for an immersive experience try staying in a Rokon or a machia a traditional wooden

Townhouse at least for a night or two it’s all about those sliding paper doors and futons rolled out on tatami flooring for those traveling on a budget capsule hotels are a uniquely Japanese experience not to mention hostiles that can be both affordable and Incredibly stylish and speaking of style let’s not

Forget about souvenir shopping tip number seven is for those looking to bring a piece of Kyoto back home the city is renowned for its traditional crafts think Kaki Ceramics Us in silk dying and so much more don’t miss the cultural experience of shopping at a local Craftsman’s

Shop that’s where you find the heart of Kyoto tip number eight eating out if you want to dine where the locals do venture to the areas just off the main streets Pono alley close to the river is lined with dining spots from high-end kaiseki to Casual yakatori stands exactly and

Don’t be deterred by small crowded places Sometimes the best meals are had around a counter with a Chef cooking right before your eyes tip number nine stay connected while Kyoto is the epitome of historical Japan you’ll want to stay plugged into the Modern Age renting a pocket Wi-Fi device or buying

A local SIM card can be a lifesaver especially when you’re trying to navigate the streets or translate a particularly complicated kanji and lastly tip number 10 pace yourself Kyoto isn’t a city for rushing it’s a city for discovering one step at a time Savor the moments allow for serendipitous detours

The best experiences in Kyoto are often the ones you stumble upon unexpectedly there’s a saying in Kyoto Ichigo ich meaning one time one meeting each encounter each experience is unique and will never occur in the same way again embrace that philosophy and your travels through Kyoto will be Unforgettable such

Wisdom Luca and speaking of Unforgettable encounters stick around because we’ll be exploring the art of the side Excursion after this short break the journey is far from over Friends and we’re gliding back into travel with Lara and Luca as we introduce the delightful practice of Soo the Japanese term for side Excursion Kyoto is a treasure chest but its surroundings are the map to further riches what’s the first Jewel on our map Luca our inaugural Soo gem has to be uji

Just a Stones Throw from Kyoto uji tantalizes with its worldclass green tea the city not only has a rich tea culture but also heavy historical significance featuring in the tale of geni uji is where you sip matcha as the Ancients might have against the backdrop of the

Majestic bioto in Temple and speaking of the tale of Genji there’s even a museum dedicated to it for literature Buffs and tea addicts alike uji is a must visit from ui’s tranquil refinement we Veer off into the raw spiritual realm of Mount Coya or kyaan it’s a bit of a journey but this

Center of shingon Buddhism is a Serene World apart nestled high in the mountains kyaan is one of those places that are almost otherworldly you can even partake in shukubo staying at a temple and experiencing the life of a monk including meditation sessions and Vegetarian Cuisine it’s a soul cleanse

Like no other Soul cleanses and Cemetery strolls coan’s okono cemetery is the largest in Japan a place where otherworldly Ambiance and spiritual significance create an indelible memory but if you’re looking for a livelier side Excursion make a beine for Osaka Japan’s kitchen as it’s affectionately known is bursting with energy neon

Lights and incredible street food don’t leave without trying takoyaki those delicious octopus filled dough balls Osaka is where you let loose Marvel at the imposing Osaka castle and then dive into the rockus laughter-filled world of do tomori it’s a city that’s loud proud and a joyous compliment to Kyoto’s

Demure Beauty then there’s Nara Japan’s first permanent capital and a side Excursion that deserves a day of wandering not least for the Bowing deer that famously roam Nara Park these gentle creatures nuzzle and Shuffle among visitors creating a Whimsical experience nara’s toi Temple housing the giant daibutsu the great Buddha is

Enough to make you feel both humbled and elevated the combination of nature history and divine Serenity finds a unique home in Nara in contrast if you want a more contemporary experience iwatayama monkey Park in arashiyama brings you face to face with Japanese maacs but heed the sage advice dear

Travelers respect the monkeyy space and they’ll respect yours they’re cheeky they’re adorable and the view from the park is an added bonus one of the best panoramas of Kyoto around another Soo that combines Scenic Beauty with cultural heritage is amoh hasiat known for its Sandbar that stretches across

Miyazu Bay often counted among Japan’s three most scenic views amanohashidate can be viewed from mountain tops at either end of The Sandbar it’s said that when viewed upside down between your legs it it appears as a pathway to Heaven hence its name Bridge To Heaven a more Hands-On encounter can be had in

Isumo an area renowned for its Pottery side excursions here could include a pottery Workshop where you can get your hands dirty and craft your own piece to take home then there’s the chance for a rural refresh at Ohara a village not far from Kyoto that seems Untouched by time here you’ll find rural

Landscapes organic farms in the Serene sanzenin temple with its moss garden a peak into Japan’s rural heart and finally if you yearn for the sea the coastal town of miseru boasts Naval History fresh seafood and a collection of picturesque hidden inlets it’s a beautiful contrast to Kyoto’s

Temple Laden terrain a Soo Luca is really just a chance to stretch your legs and your horizons whether it’s connecting with nature or discovering a new layer of Japan’s cultural fabric there’s a side Excursion for every inclination each Direction you take from Kyoto offers a new facet a new tail and

In every one the pulsing heart of Japan beats strong so when in Kyoto don’t hesitate to take that extra step catch that train or hop on a bike to see where the path leads and as our path temporarily diverges for a short break take a moment to envisage your next Soo

Will it be a temple stay a Gorman’s gamble through Osaka whatever piques your interest Kyoto and its environs await hold that thought and that eager spirit when we return Lara and I will share our concluding Reflections on Kyoto and look ahead to the next adventure stay with Us welcome back to the final stretch of travel with Lara and Luca Kyoto Edition it’s been a Journey Through Time taste and the Tranquil Paths of both the known and the unknown in this ancient city and its captivating surroundings oh it’s bittersweet Lara as we draw this episode

To a close I’m overcome with that mono no aware sensation we alluded to earlier the beauty in the ephemeral nature of things a fitting sentiment for the end of our virtual Kyoto trip so true Luca yet in this conclusion lies an invitation an invitation to not see this

As an ending but as the beginning of your own Kyoto story should you choose to visit let’s offer some final thoughts shall we let’s do that Koto for all its historical weight isn’t locked away behind glass or trapped in Amber it’s a living breathing City that harmonizes

The past with the pulse of the present every Temple every R Stone every wooden machia tells a story and even in the tales left Untold there’s a narrative those Quiet Moments you find for yourself amid the bustle the Serendipity of turning down an alley to discover a

Tiny peer that makes the best Yuzu tart you’ve ever tasted oh the Yuzu tart a Sublime bite indeed those personal discoveries are the treasures of travel Kyoto is a treasure Trove because it doesn’t reveal Everything at Once the city rewards patience mindfulness and a willing sense of adventure adventure

Exactly whether it’s in the Mastery of an elegantly performed Tea Ceremony or in The Echoes of an ancient no play at one of Kyoto’s many temples to be a spectator in Kyoto is to be a part of the city’s theater theater that extends to its Gastronomy too from kaiseki to

Street food stalls and those convenience store Delights the city beckons with a spread worthy of Emperors and accessible to every traveler and with accessibility in mind don’t forget those expert travel tips we shared embracing Kyoto means embracing its Customs its Pace Kyoto isn’t a destination to conquer it’s one

To commune with to learn from that’s beautifully said Lara Kyoto if anything teaches it teaches Grace etiquette the significance of of silence and the heavy words of History the Dynamics of Nature’s brush Strokes across four distinct Seasons it’s in that Grace where you find the magic I can still remember the first

Blush of dawn with its soft Mist over King coji watching the temple awaken in a haze of gold that’s Kyoto to me and as we awakened to each new Kyoto day every experience felt like a verse in our own personal Haiku speaking of which how about we share a haiku as our poetic

Goodbye to Kyoto a lovely idea H let me think silent temple bells Echoes of footsteps in time Kyoto’s heart beats that was beautiful laara the essence of Kyoto in a handful of syllables for our listeners moments like these simple and profound are what you’ll carry with you long after you’ve returned home because

Kyoto isn’t just a set of experiences it’s an enduring Echo that resonates in the heart a whispering call to return to explore further to delve deeper we really hope that this episode has stirred a longing inside you to walk the path of philosophers to taste the Delicacies of the local markets to feel

The ancient wood of the temple doors beneath your fingers and as we wrap up we invite you to share your own experiences with us the places you’ve been the hidden gems you’ve uncovered those Unexpected Delights your stories Inspire our travels and the tales we tell on this show if you’ve enjoyed our

Journey to Kyoto wait until you see where we’re heading next your tals and suggestions might just be the road map to our future episodes so until next time keep wandering keep wondering on behalf of Luca and myself thank you for inviting us into your world even if just

For a while here’s wishing you Journeys filled with awe moments of clarity cultural connections and stories that beg to be shared so dear Travelers until our paths cross again on the next travel with Lara and Luca take care stay curious and remember that every step you

Take is a story waiting to begin sanr for now canr friends happy Travels