The atmosphere in Okazaki is that of refinement. The old and somewhat solemn style of Kyoto is symbolized by the towering torii gate of Heian Shrine, but there are also new and exciting places to visit like many galleries, theaters, and the place just in general has a cultural feel to it. You also have the Okazaki Canal and Keage Incline which are both especially beautiful in spring with the cherry blossoms, but Okazaki has a lot to offer all through the year. There are many great restaurants here too, and now Vanessa is going to take us all on a tour of the area!
9 a.m. The vermilion torii gate of Heian Shrine
This is the perfect starting point for our day, as you have the Okazaki Canal, the torii gate, and the stately feeling of it all.
But if you go inside the Heian Shrine garden, you get to see the beautiful natural scenery and Japanese architecture. This is just so relaxing.
Address | Okazaki Nishitennocho, Sakyo-ku Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 606-8341 |
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Open Hours | Mar. 1 - Mar. 14: 8:30am - 5pm Mar. 15 - Sep. 30: 8:30am - 5:30pm Oct. 1 - Oct. 31: 8:30am - 5:30pm Nov.1 - Feb.14: 8:30am - 4:30pm Feb.15-Feb. 28 or 29 :8:30am - 5:00pm *Kyoto Jidai Matsuri (Oct. 22): 9:30am - 11:30am |
11:30 a.m. Line up for Yamamoto Menzou
Yamamoto Menzou is probably the most famous udon restaurant in Kyoto, and there is always a line in front of the restaurant, even before it opens. But the taste is really worth it! It’s better to get there early if you want to get in without waiting for over an hour.
The noodles here are chewy in a good sense, they have a nice texture. You’ll know it once you bite into them, and as soon as you take your first bite, you’ll also know why so many people line up to eat their noodles. This restaurant is my favorite udon place in Kyoto.
Address | 34, Okazaki Minamigoshocho, Sakyo-ku Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 606-8334 |
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Open Hours | 11am - 6pm (L.O.) * Close at 2:30pm on Wednesdays |
1 p.m. Mindfulness at National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto
The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto, you get to see all kinds of works of art, even video, and not only by Japanese artists but also by European and American artists.
Among their works they have Japanese paintings in Japanese and western styles, calligraphy, sculptures, video art; all kinds of art for you to enjoy.
2 p.m. DIY experience at Kyoto Handicraft Center
Here at the Kyoto Handicraft Center, you get to try your hand at woodblock printing, or you can make your very own folding fan; anyway, you get to experience the culture of Kyoto through handicrafts.
They also have many traditional handicrafts on sale like these cute purses, but they also have other things like earthenware plates. These things make you really appreciate the labor that goes into carefully making each and everyone one of these traditional crafts.
4 p.m. Afternoon tea at Kyoto Modern Terrace
This very chic café is located on the second floor of the bookstore Tsutaya in Okazaki, and inside the atmosphere is fancy and cultural.
So, Kyoto-style Japanese sweets it is! But first, I want to have a fig tart with a cup of coffee and just relax.
Their terrace seats are really nice, especially at night. You get to take in the night views while you sip on a drink, and just enjoy your life in Kyoto!
Address | Rohm Theatre Kyoto, Park Plaza 2F, 13 Okazaki Saishoji-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture |
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Open Hours | 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. (Last orders at 7:00) |
5:30 p.m. Local delicacies at Kyo-Tsukemono Daiyasu
Last, but not least, we have tsukemono, Japanese pickles, at the famous . They are made using only natural ingredients, and there is nothing artificial about them. You can taste this in the natural salty sweetness of them.
Once you step in, you are greeted by a plethora of choices; all kinds of colors, all kinds of different vegetables. These pickles also go well with sake.
After spending a day in Okazaki, it has time to say goodbye, but I hope I will get to see you all in Kyoto someday. Kyoto is a city of culture which is nowhere as evident as it’s in Okazaki; all the museums and galleries, and even the restaurants are fancier here. Till next time!
Vanessa[ Sharing Kyoto Staff ] |