Kyoto, Japan

I just returned from a trip to Japan and it was wondrous. Japan is the most first world country I've ever been to; from its efficiency, to its connectivity, the cleanliness of the country and ubiquitous application of technology, Japan ensures it is all top notch. Yet she is simultaneously steep in culture and tradition. The people are full of respect and kindness, the architecture teeming with history and the food a gastronomical delight, Japan envelops even the most touristy tourist in its embrace.

Japan is an experience, and one that shouldn't be missed.

Kyoto Day 1
The trip started with a 6 hour flight on AirAsiaX and frankly speaking I was apprehensive. I love AirAsia but I've never been on such a long flight in a budget airline before. Was I going to be comfortable? All my worries proved to be nothing, it was a wonderful flight and the RM15 meal was delicious (albeit on the small side). The flight schedule is less than ideal though, we arrived at 10+pm local time and after immigration and baggage claim we were out around 11pm. The busses had stopped running by then and we were rushing to catch last trains (without enough time to study the route!). There were multiple train switches to get to our hotel in Osaka, and at each checkpoint, the worker at the station would just let us through without charge so we can rush to make each subsequent last train. We literally paid nothing for our train ride from Kansai to Osaka (which should be near RM100pp)! A testament to the kindness of the locals, all so willing to help.

Kyoto Day 2
The next day was our first glimpse of Osaka when we headed out in search of breakfast. I bought this sugar crusted yam bread that was absolutely delicious, airy and soft with the perfect amount of sweetness. Yumm that delicious pastry...

Not wanting to spend time in Osaka,we took the subway then an express train to Kyoto. Osaka and Kyoto are not too far apart, the train ride took approx 35mins.