Pretty Triots: Kansai

TRAVEL DIARY: What to do in Osaka & Kyoto

It’s almost the holidays, time to pack your bags and travel. There are many places to visit during this time of the year. In case you’re planning a trip to Japan, here are some of things I did last July in Osaka and Kyoto that you can add to your list.

KINKAKU-JI the most iconic place in Kyoto, it is also known as the Golden Pavilion. As its’ name implies, it is a pavilion covered in gold leaf. There is also a tea garden where you can try their matcha tea and sweets

KIYOMIZU-DERA TEMPLE stroll in Kimono and see the magnificent view where the colors of the trees changes each season.

FUSHIMI INARI SHRINE must visit place which is known for its thousands of red torii gates. Outside the shrine, there are souvenir shops and food stalls. I went there during the afternoon and it’s packed with tourists so I suggest try going early morning or evening.

RYOKAN experience staying in a traditional Japanese Inn, wearing a yukata, and having a kaiseki meal.

OSAKA-JO famous landmark in Osaka and a symbol of Osaka for hundreds of years. Also known as Osaka Castle. It is surrounded with gates, moats and stoned walls. There are also food vendors and souvenir shops around the main tower of the Osaka Castle. On the other side, Osaka Castle Park an open area surrounding the castle, it is also the ideal spot for cherry blossom viewing during early April.

KUROMON MARKET perfect place to eat and shop from different local stores in one place.

HOGWARTS, UNIVERSAL STUDIO for Potterheads, it is a dream to experience the Wizarding World. In the Universal Studios, you can tour around the replicated Hogwarts, buy wands and harry potter souvenirs and also try their Butterbeer. We tried the 4K3D ride in Hogwarts where we had to queue for almost 2 hours but it’s worth it.

DOTONBORI is a must visit place for food lovers, there are different Japanese restaurants in every corner and next to it would be SHINSAIBASHI, the shopping heaven from retail stores to luxury shops. It is also nice to visit during nigh time and see different neon lights illuminating.

100 YEN SUSHI a budget-friendly way of trying different sushi that won’t hurt your wallet. Almost everything in the menu is only 100 yen (exclusive of tax). You can find tons of restaurants with this concept. I also heard that some 100 yen sushi stores also became known for their desserts.