A week in Kyoto

Seven days, one backpack, no itinerary. Some notes so I don’t forget.

The best mornings started before the crowds did. Fushimi Inari at 6 a.m. is a different mountain than Fushimi Inari at noon — just the sound of your own steps under a thousand gates.

Philosopher’s Path was quieter than expected for May. I walked it twice: once for the walk, once for the coffee shop I’d passed and regretted skipping.

Things I learned:

1. Buy the bus day pass. Immediately.
2. Temples close earlier than you think.
3. Convenience store breakfast is not a compromise, it’s a feature.

I left with the feeling that a week was both too long and not nearly enough, which is probably the sign of a good trip.