Honeymoon Diaries Pt 10: Kyoto's BEST Kept Secrets Exposed!

Kyoto's BEST Kept Secrets Exposed! (avoiding the crowds) | Honeymoon Diaries

As our incredible honeymoon comes to a close, we couldn’t think of a more magical place to end it than Kyoto! From serene temples to mouthwatering ramen, this city has it all. Come along with us as we explore Kyoto’s cultural and culinary highlights, each spot offering a unique experience and memory from our final days in Japan.

Chao Chao Gyoza: A Bite-Sized Disappointment 🍽️

Our food journey began at Chao Chao Gyoza. While we were excited to try this famous gyoza spot, the reality didn’t quite live up to the hype. But don’t worry—our Kyoto food adventures only get better from here! We’ll show you an even more delicious find later on that truly made up for it.

Byōdō-ji (Inaba-dō) Temple: A Hidden Gem for Safe Travels 🏯

Our first temple stop was the quiet Byōdō-ji, also known as Inaba-dō, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Kyoto. This peaceful temple, founded in the 10th century, offers travelers blessings for safe journeys and a deeper connection to Kyoto’s long history. If you’re a history buff or simply seeking tranquility, this is a must-visit.

Bukko-ji Temple: Escape the Crowds 🧘‍♀️

Looking for a break from the bustling streets of Kyoto? Bukko-ji Temple is your peaceful retreat. Founded in the 13th century, this off-the-beaten-path temple will transport you back in time, with its beautiful grounds providing a serene space to reflect and unwind.

Strolling Along the Takase River 🌊

One of our favorite Kyoto strolls was along the Takase River. With cozy cafés and riverside restaurants lining the water, this spot captures the charm of Kyoto perfectly. It’s the ideal place to slow down, grab a coffee, and soak up that quintessential Kyoto vibe.

Gion Soy Milk Ramen Uno Yokiko: Kyoto’s Best Vegan Ramen 🍜

Now, here’s the food highlight we promised! Gion Soy Milk Ramen Uno Yokiko was hands down one of the best food experiences we had in Kyoto—and possibly in all of Japan. If you love creamy soy-based dishes, this vegan and vegetarian-friendly ramen spot is a dream come true. Paired with their melt-in-your-mouth gyozas, it’s an absolute must-try!

Yasaka Shrine: A Kyoto Icon ⛩️

With over 1,300 years of history, Yasaka Shrine is one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. The bold red gates welcome you into a peaceful sanctuary filled with history and spirituality. It’s easy to lose yourself in the tranquil beauty of this place, and we highly recommend adding it to your Kyoto itinerary.

Fukueido: Sweet Kyoto Delights 🍡

What’s a trip to Kyoto without indulging in some traditional sweets? At Fukueido, we treated ourselves to an assortment of mochi and other delicacies, perfect for pairing with a hot cup of green tea. Each bite was a small taste of Kyoto’s rich tradition, and we couldn’t get enough!

Issen Yoshoku: A Quirky Culinary Experience 🍳

Last but not least, we popped into Issen Yoshoku, a one-dish restaurant known for its fun and quirky atmosphere. While we didn’t get to try their famous okonomiyaki this time, the experience alone made it worth the visit. This spot is a fun stop for anyone looking for a bit of Kyoto’s unique charm.

As this chapter of our honeymoon adventure comes to a close, we can’t wait to share what’s next with you! In our upcoming vlog, we’ll be visiting the iconic torii gates, taking a rickshaw ride, and even meeting a real geisha. Make sure to subscribe and hit that notification bell so you don’t miss a moment of our next adventure.

With Love,

Adi & Nic