Kyoto Chaos: Lost in the Numbers & Cherry Blossoms
okay, so. kyoto. what even is kyoto? i landed here with just a vague feeling and a bunch of random numbers rattling around in my head: 1849876 and 1392000560. no idea what they mean, honestly. maybe it's some ancient code? who knows. the temp right now? 8.03 celsius. feels like 4.68. kinda nippy, but the sun's trying its best. i just checked and it's...there right now, hope you like that kind of thing. the air smells like damp earth and something sweet, like someone’s baking mochi.
this city is a jumble. like, a beautiful, ancient jumble. i’m staying in a little guesthouse near *Gion, and it’s adorable but also…rustic. let’s just say the plumbing has a personality. i'm trying not to think about it.
my neighbors? they’re mostly little shops selling ceramics and kimonos. everyone’s so polite, it’s almost overwhelming. i heard that you should always take off your shoes before entering someone’s home - pretty cool tradition, right? and seriously, the temples are everywhere. it's a bit much, but in a good way. like a constant reminder that you're somewhere really, really old.
so, the plan is…well, there isn’t really a plan. which is kind of the point, isn’t it? i’m mostly just wandering, getting completely lost, and eating way too much ramen. someone told me that the best ramen shops are always tucked away down tiny alleyways - i’m on a mission to find one.
gear-ish stuff? i'm rocking a super basic backpack, comfortable shoes (essential, trust me), and my trusty camera. i'm trying to capture it all, even though i know photos can never really do this place justice. seriously, the light here is insane. it hits the wooden buildings in the most magical way.
i've been seeing a lot of recommendations for a day trip to Nara - apparently, the deer there are totally unafraid of humans. i'm a little hesitant, to be honest. i’m not sure i’m ready for that level of animal boldness. i heard that you can buy special deer crackers, but someone warned me to be careful - they can get pretty aggressive if they think you have food. interesting.
oh, and the humidity! it’s clinging to everything. like a friendly ghost. it’s kinda weird. i’m probably also going to try and find a good izakaya tonight. i’ve seen tons of pictures, and i'm craving some small plates and sake. seriously, if you’re ever in Kyoto, you have to check out Pontocho Alley. it’s supposedly gorgeous at night. you can find loads of reviews on TripAdvisor.
this whole trip feels like a dream. a slightly chaotic, number-filled dream, but a dream nonetheless. i think i just saw a cat wearing a tiny hat*. i’m not even kidding. this city is officially weirder and more wonderful than i ever imagined. if you’re looking for a place to get delightfully lost, come to Kyoto. you won’t regret it. you can find some great info on Japan-Guide.com too. just saying.
and hey, if you need me, i'll be the one asking for directions and probably getting hopelessly turned around. maybe i'll even stumble upon the meaning of 1849876 and 1392000560. fingers crossed.
check out some cool local art on Etsy. you might find something to remember this trip by!
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