Chapter 6 · Japan

Arriving in Kyoto

Mountain views, ocean on one side, and a hotel that already felt better than Tokyo

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Today’s adventure was the equivalent of a “rest day” during our travels — though in Japan, even the slower days somehow still turn into unforgettable experiences.

We boarded the Hokuriku Arch Line from Tokyo to Kyoto, a train ride that took about four hours with several stops along the way as passengers came and went from different cities. Many of those stops looked like places worth exploring if you had extra time in Japan.

The views during the ride were incredible.

On one side, mountains stretched above tiny villages tucked into peaceful valleys. On the other side, the ocean appeared alongside the tracks like something out of a movie. It felt like watching Japan unfold one scene at a time outside the train window.

When we finally arrived in Kyoto, the station was buzzing with energy — people moving in every direction catching trains, shopping, meeting friends, and eating at restaurants. Kyoto Station is massive, but surprisingly easy to navigate once you get your bearings.

Our hotel, the Sakura Terrace Gallery, is less than a quarter mile from Kyoto Station and honestly feels more like a small resort than a city hotel. It may already be one of my favorite places we’ve ever stayed.

The moment we arrived, we were greeted with smiling faces and a cold popsicle snack — which somehow felt extra magical after a long travel day. Later that evening, we discovered they also offer a complimentary happy hour drink during dinner service.

Our room was larger than average by Japanese standards and even had a balcony. Inside was an entire collection of thoughtful amenities — pajamas, sandals, toothbrushes, razors, a hairbrush, tea, and more. The hotel also offers free laundry service, a public bath, massage chairs that feel absolutely amazing after walking 8–9 miles a day, and even live music during dinner service.

After dinner, our server recommended taking a walk through Kyoto Station. We quickly realized this was not just a train station. It’s practically a tourist attraction on its own.

We wandered to the opposite side from where we originally entered and discovered an enormous shopping mall, a sky garden, elevated skywalks, city overlook points, illuminated stairs that put on a light show, and what felt like an endless number of restaurants.

We’ve been in Kyoto less than a day… and somehow we already think we like it even more than Tokyo.