Streets of Kyoto

Another warm day in Kyoto.

The sun beating down from above along with the humidity is a common feature in Kyoto. It is well known that summers and winters in the city can be undesirable compared to other parts of Japan.

Lake Biwa in Shiga Perfecture 琵琶湖

View from Ono Station Platform

Lake Biwa is Japan’s largest freshwater lake.  Lake Biwa is of tectonic origin and is one of the world’s twenty oldest lakes, dating to almost 4 million years ago.  The Shiga area is great for outdoor actives such as fishing, swimming, and hiking in the various mountainous areas.

Pontocho area Kyoto

Pontocho 先斗町 alley in Kyoto

Restaurants and entertainment establishments line the alleys of Kyoto in the Pontocho district awaiting to be discovered by the curious traveler.

Serene Pleasure Deep in Kyoto's Forests

Kyoto’s bamboo forests cover the hillsides in a green blanket of splendor.  Hiking these serene areas is one of Kyoto’s unique spots and mostly free of tourists.  Many are easily accessed via bicycle.  Wondering this forested place one will hear bird calls echoing through the dense forest.  Your path will be shaded from the sun by the tall bamboo stalks that sway beautifully in the wind making a most relaxing sound.

Misty mountains

A river slowly flows from the mountains down through Kyoto’s old streets.  Bicycling or hiking the outskirts of Kyoto has many rewards not found via bus tours.  Kyoto Japan is more than temples and shrines, one just has to wonder just a bit further.

Minoo Park Osaka Japan (Minoh Park / Mino Park)

Minoo Park is also known as (Minoh Park / Mino Park) is located 30min from downtown Osaka Japan via train.  This is a quick getaway spot for locals to get some walking or hiking away from the bustling city life.   A waterfall greets visitors at the end of the hike that takes about 30mins depending on pace.  A stream flows along the entire trail that is surrounded by trees and bird calls.  A few tourist shops line the trail selling food, drinks, snacks, and gifts.  The park can be accessed from Minoo Station off the Hankyu Minoo Line. There is No Fee to enter the park.