Introduction
July 9, 2025 — July 13, 2025
It was my first time visiting Japan, and I split the trip between Kyoto and Osaka. Kyoto is steeped in traditional charm, while Osaka feels more like Shanghai—a bustling, modern metropolis. Compared to Kyoto’s reserved vibe, the people in Osaka are outgoing and friendly—perfect for someone like me who loves to wander spontaneously.
We drove from Hefei to Nanjing Airport, then flew to Osaka. Although weather forecasts predicted similar temperatures in Hefei, Nanjing, Osaka, and Kyoto, it definitely felt hotter in China—the humidity here in Japan made everything feel much more comfortable.
Kyoto
1. Kansai International Airport
This airport is built on an island surrounded by the sea—an ingenious, noise-free design. After landing, we took the high‑speed train straight to Kyoto. This was no ordinary train—it was a Hello Kitty-themed *Haruka* express!
2. Kyoto Station
July 9, 2025 ☀️
July 9 was intense: Hefei → Nanjing → Osaka → Kyoto, all in one day. But walking around Kyoto Station—especially near the Conan-themed photo spots—made it totally worth it.
3. Karasuma Street
July 9, 2025 ☀️
The Karasuma corridor is one of Kyoto’s main commercial streets, lined with department stores and cozy cafes. However, nightlife is surprisingly muted here—by around 8:30 PM most shops close, and the street quiets down significantly.
4. Kiyomizu-dera Temple
July 10, 2025 ☀️
5. Ninen-zaka & Sannen-zaka
July 10, 2025 ☀️
This picturesque duo of streets leads from Kiyomizu-dera down to Yasaka Shrine. Lined with traditional wooden houses, cobblestone paths, and souvenir shops, it feels like stepping back in time.
6. Yasaka Shrine
July 10, 2025 ☀️
Yasaka Shrine is one of Kyoto's iconic shrines, nestled near Gion. We happened upon a local festival during our visit—police had temporarily closed the streets, and the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement.
7. Kamo River
July 10, 2025 ☀️
The river that runs through the heart of Kyoto—if translated literally, it might be called 'Duck River.' It’s one of the coolest spots in the city during summer.
Ran into a street guitarist playing fingerstyle guitar—really impressive talent.
8. K‑Cars & Campaign Vans
July 10, 2025 ☀️
Japan is full of tiny K‑cars—ultra-compact vehicles perfect for narrow streets and tight parking spaces.
Osaka
9. Dotonbori
July 11, 2025 🌧️
It seemed like all of Osaka's tourists converge here—the iconic Glico Running Man billboard is *the* must-see selfie spot.
10. Sōemonchō
July 11, 2025 🌧️
Just a turn off Dotonbori’s main drag is Sōemonchō—completely unremarkable by day, but transforms into a lively bar street at night. This is one of the few areas in Osaka where street smoking is allowed.
11. Shinsaibashi
July 12, 2025 ☀️
Shinsaibashi is Osaka’s prime shopping district—packed with department stores like LUCUA and boutiques catering to trendy crowds. If you're into fashion or people watching, this is the place to be.
🚫 **Adults only (18+) past this point!** 🚫
