Lost in Kyoto: Numbers, Noodles, and a Whole Lotta Rain

okay, so i landed in *Kyoto yesterday. feels like a dream, honestly. the air is thick, not in a bad way, just...humid. the forecast said a high of 25.58°C, but it felt hotter, like a damp blanket. i just checked and it’s… drizzling. persistent drizzle. hope you like that kind of thing. i’m already questioning all my life choices that led me here (in the best way possible, of course).

first impressions? sensory overload. the smell of incense mixes with something sweet, maybe mochi? and the sounds - rickshaws clattering, people chatting in japanese, the gentle rush of water from some hidden tsukubai. it’s really something. i’m trying to embrace the chaos, but it’s definitely a shift from my usual routine.

found a tiny ramen shop down a side street. absolutely no English menu, just pointing and hoping for the best. it was amazing. seriously, some of the best noodles i’ve had in ages. the owner just smiled and nodded when i slurped loudly - which i apparently do.

i’m staying in a little guesthouse near Gion. it’s super basic, but charming. kind of like stepping back in time. the neighbors are mostly older folks, going about their daily routines. if you get bored, Osaka is just a short drive away - lots of fun things to do over there. TripAdvisor has some good options for accommodation if you're looking.

i heard that the Fushimi Inari Shrine is insane at sunset. someone told me that you’ll need at least three hours to even make a dent in climbing up all those torii gates, and it gets packed. i’m planning on going tomorrow early to avoid the crowds. i saw a photo on Instagram that looked unreal. It's definitely on my to-do list.

actually, i was talking to a woman at the guesthouse. she said i should definitely check out Nishiki Market. she warned me that it's super crowded, especially on weekends, and to watch out for pickpockets - classic tourist advice, i guess.

“Don’t be afraid to get lost in the backstreets. That's where the real magic happens.”

this city is a maze. i’m constantly turning down alleys and finding hidden temples and tiny shops. it’s exhausting and exhilarating all at once. i’m also trying to find a good matcha latte - a friend back home swears by a spot near Kiyomizu-dera Temple. i’m making a note to check out Yelp when i finally get a chance. Yelp is always good for local finds.

okay, brain is fried. time for some green tea and a nap. i'm definitely going to need it. i'm hoping to spend a week here, but honestly, i could stay forever. the detail is just everywhere*.

planning the next few days… gotta remember to grab a Suica card, that seems essential for navigating the public transportation system. and maybe learn a few basic japanese phrases. i’m thinking about checking out a local language exchange. italki is a good resource for that.

Japan-Guide has tons of practical info, but i’m also trusting my gut and wandering.