I recently came back after living and studying here for a whole semester (about 4-5 months), and I must say… I miss it A LOT. Kyoto is such a lovely city. Even though it can’t compare with the liveliness of the big cities (ie. Osaka and Tokyo), there are a lot of treasures here just waiting for you to discover it!

Kyoto, I feel has more sophistication—far from the loudness of the big cities—and it is also apparent in the way people dress, act, and speak (the Kyoto-ben dialect makes for a lovely listen). The people are sooo wonderful too!

And of course, I cannot forget to mention all the pretty temples and various historical landmarks which are practically scattered everywhere (I used to live right next door to Toji Temple, which I think is the oldest temple in Japan..?)! Every little place has its own story to tell…

Oh, and the nightlife is pretty awesome too! I have so many memories of days (and nights) hanging out by the Kamo River with friends, those all-night karaoke stints, and them nomihoudai parties… Ahh! I miss it so much!

So, to those planning on going: GO GO GO!