Finding Free and Cheap Travel Activities in Expensive Japan - KYOTO

Finding Free and Cheap Travel Activities in Expensive Japan

Japan is notable for its modern antiquity, bustling city life, and enough fluorescent lights to give any traveler’s eyes a workout.

But with the current economic climate, the Land of the Rising Sun might also be confused with the Land of the Rising Budget, especially for travelers.

However, there are plenty of activities in Japan that are affordable—and even free—meaning you can cover a great deal of territory even on a tiny budget.

KYOTO

After the fast pace and sheer size of Tokyo, a few days in Kyoto might help you unwind and catch your breath. Don’t be misled, though—Kyoto is a vibrant city in its own right, but the focus remains on temples and shrines, most of which are free (leaving more money for sushi!).

Instead of heading straight to your lodging after arriving at Kyoto Station, put your luggage in storage and take some time to admire the station. In stark contrast with the more antiquated architecture of the rest of the city, Kyoto Station is a modernist attraction in and of itself.

You can walk along the glass corridor (located on the 11th floor), grab a bite to eat at Ramen Koji (seven Ramen restaurants located on the 10th floor), shop at Isetan Department Store, or simply wander around taking in impressive views of Kyoto Tower, located just across the street. www.kyoto-station-building.co.jp/index.htm (in Japanese)

Then walk on over to Kyoto Tower—the views are less dramatic than those of Tokyo Tower, but it’s an easy way to familiarize yourself with the city’s landscape.

About 100 meters from the tower you’ll find Higashi Hongan-ji, one of Kyoto’s larger temples. After wandering the temple grounds, take your shoes off and explore the interior. Don’t miss the coil of rope made of human hair, once used to lift large beams for the construction of the temple. http://kyoto-tower.co.jp/kyototower/index.html (in Japanese)

Less than 30 minutes from Kyoto and a must for anyone appreciative of Japanese culture is Fushimi Inari Taisha, or what one might call “Land of the Many Red Gates.”

Thousands of torii (shrine gates) line the pathways that lead up to various shrines within this breathtaking complex, and fox statues known as inari are ubiquitous throughout. (The fox is considered a messenger of the Shinto god, Inari.) It is about a 2.5-mile walk to the top, but only a half-day is needed here. The shrine might seem familiar to some as it inspired artists Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s “The Gates” exhibition in New York’s Central Park displayed in February 2005. http://inari.jp (in Japanese)

Kyoto’s subways and JapanRail lines are not as convenient as Tokyo’s for getting where you want to go. It’s easier to buy a one-day bus pass for Y500. In fact, as long as you use the bus more than three times in any given day, it will generally pay for itself. Traffic is not too bad either, and it beats walking some of the longer distances.

Text and Photos (except as indicated) by Karl I. Muller for PeterGreenberg.com.