Exploring Kyoto with BrandsWalk

BrandsWalk Creative |
Kyoto, Japan, is a city that effortlessly blends tradition with modernity. From its centuries-old temples and serene nature spots to the hustle and bustle of its shopping districts, Kyoto offers a journey that’s both peaceful and exciting. During our recent trip to this iconic city, the BrandsWalk team explored the heart of Kyoto while putting some of our favorite travel essentials to the test. Join us as we walk through the highlights of our adventure, from the sights and flavors of Kyoto to the cutting-edge products that made our travels smooth, comfortable, and efficient.

KACTO: A Perfect Start to the Day

Our first stop on this Kyoto journey was KACTO, a charming brunch spot located in the Shimogyo Ward near the river. KACTO is known for its cozy atmosphere, making it the perfect place to fuel up before a day of exploring. We indulged in a selection of locally sourced dishes, savoring everything from fresh eggs to decadent pancakes. The café's menu blends Japanese and Western flavors in a way that feels refreshingly modern yet authentically Kyoto.

KACTO’s riverside location made for a peaceful morning, setting the tone for the day ahead. After our meal, I quickly grabbed my camera from the front pocket of my Native Union W.F.A Backpack, a feature I loved because it made accessing gear quick and easy.

Sannenzaka: A Step Back in Time

Next, we made our way to Sannenzaka, a picturesque slope that winds through the Higashiyama District. This historic street leads to Kiyomizudera Temple, one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks, and offers plenty of opportunities to explore the small shops and tea houses that line the road. Walking through Sannenzaka is like stepping back in time, with its preserved architecture and traditional atmosphere.

Despite visiting this spot multiple times, the charm of Sannenzaka never fades. Each time, I find new corners to explore, whether it’s a small café tucked away in an alley or a traditional shop selling local crafts. This time, we stopped at a small teahouse for matcha ice cream before making our way up to the temple. The street was bustling with visitors, yet the atmosphere remained tranquil, a perfect balance that Kyoto is known for.

While capturing video and taking photos, my Sennheiser Accentum Plus Wireless Headphones were perfect for editing footage on the go, blocking out noise so I could stay focused while enjoying Kyoto’s beauty.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest: Serenity in Nature

Kyoto’s natural landscapes are just as breathtaking as its urban beauty, and one of the best examples is the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. We headed to Arashiyama, a district on the western outskirts of Kyoto, for a change of scenery. The bamboo grove here is nothing short of magical—the towering bamboo stalks create a natural canopy, and as you walk through the grove, the sound of rustling leaves and creaking bamboo transports you to a different world.

Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama: A Unique Wildlife Experience

Just across the river from Arashiyama’s main attractions is the Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama. The short hike to the top is well worth the effort, as you’re rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Kyoto and the chance to interact with the park’s resident monkeys. The monkeys roam freely in this natural habitat, and while you can’t touch them, you can feed them from a designated area. It’s a fun and unique experience, perfect for animal lovers and families.

One of the great things about Arashiyama is that it’s easy to navigate and offers stunning views at every turn. Whether you’re taking photos, capturing video, or simply enjoying the peace, it’s a place you don’t want to rush. The G-Shock GM2100-1A Watch came in handy as we transitioned from one spot to another, allowing me to quickly switch between time zones and track our day efficiently.

Exploring Arashiyama: Scenic Walks and Electric Bike Rides

After our time at the monkey park, we spent the rest of the afternoon wandering through Arashiyama’s quiet streets and taking in the area’s natural beauty. Arashiyama feels like a world away from the city, with its lush greenery and calm riverside atmosphere. To get back to Higashiyama Ward for dinner, we used Luup, an electric bike and scooter rental service that made traveling around Kyoto both convenient and fun.

Dinner at Hikiniku to Kome: Simple Yet Delicious

Our final stop of the day was Hikiniku to Kome, a restaurant in Kyoto that specializes in a simple yet satisfying dish: beef patty over rice. The name of the restaurant literally translates to "Ground Meat and Rice," and the dish is served with a variety of sauces, ranging from yuzu to garlic and assorted spices. Each sauce adds a new layer of flavor to the already delicious beef, making this meal a true comfort food experience.

Kyoto has a way of making you feel like you’re discovering it for the first time, no matter how many visits you make. The blend of traditional and modern, the delicious food, and the serene natural beauty are all part of the city's timeless charm. This time around, I appreciated the city even more through the eyes of my friends, who marveled at everything from the city’s uniform color palette to the hidden gems found in every alley.

Kyoto is a city that truly has something for everyone, from history buffs to foodies and nature lovers. If you’re planning a trip soon, be sure to pack the right gear to make the most of your journey.

Stay tuned for more travel tips and product recommendations in our next blog. Thanks for joining us on this journey through Kyoto!

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