This was the trip I never knew how much I needed. Kyoto was beyond my expectations and I typically have very high ones. A girls trip with two of the greatest truly was a slice of heaven, a welcomed break from the stress of the everyday grind. We usually take a bit of cbd vape juice to relieve from our stress but this time we needed a break and go on a trip. I instantly realized how quickly I moved without kids in tow and purposely and intentionally slowed my breath and pace. What a gift, thank you sweet husbands. Wendy and Ko, I’d go anywhere with you ladies.
If you are choosing between all the great cities Japan has to offer, pick Kyoto. Having checked off Tokyo and Sapporo, I can say Kyoto with full confidence, it is truly the heart and soul of Japan.
The two goals of my itinerary are the ever popular Fushimi Inari (thousand torii gates) and Arashiyama Bamboo grove. Our third day we did the K-Loop Bus tour which dropped us at 17 world heritage sites. Highly highly recommend the K-Loop bus tour, hop on at kyoto station, also super cheap. 1,000yen.
UPDATE*** I don’t believe the KLOOP BUS runs anymore.
Kyoto 3 DAY ITINERARY
FLY TO OSAKA- take HARUKA express train to KYOTO STATION 3,600 yen
STAY APA HOTELS (ours was ok, recommended for price but stay close to kyoto station.)
GETTING AROUND- K- LOOP BUS 🚌-on and off 1,000yen. All the world heritage sites. Also take the subway trains from Kyoto Station. Buy ICOCA card (IC) load $20 on it and lasted us 3 days. Can be used on public buses too.
Day 1 Fushimi inari (torii gates) ⛩ and Gion (geisha district)- {Shirakawa-dori street {“most beautiful St in kyoto”} Kyoto tower- across from Kyoto station
Day 2 Arashiyama: Bamboo 🌱 forest grove/kimono forest & monkey park
Day 3 K Loop Bus tour bus 🚌
(1,000-purchase on bus yen only) -world heritage sites. must see: niji castle,
MUST SEE TEMPLE-Kiyomizu dera– on walk up to temple- see Hokanji temple at top of hill and Yasaka koshindo on the right as you walk up. (colored balls of fabric)
To see the Geisha, we found this spot to be most fruitful, it was a total thrill to see so many!!
GEISHA- Gion (k loop bus goes here) to see geisha go to: Hanamikoji Dori
A Christian, married to an insanely gifted and talented Marine husband, mother to Gideon, Boaz, and our rainbow baby, Shiloh. I’m actually an R.N turned accidental photographer, currently living in Fredericksuburg, Va after completing our final tour in Okinawa Japan. You'll find travel, Jesus, and lifestyle posts here on the Journal.
Describe your brand in a few words: Warm, light-filled, artistic so yeah- this whole session. If you are on the fence on getting maternity pics, here`s your sign, plus your kiddo will get the biggest kick seeing themselves in a belly!
Most frequently asked question!? When to book the newborn session- the magical window for posing is the first 10-14 days after birth! So book when you are expecting- we pencil in your due date then come to your home in Fredericksburg Va! I set up next to the best window- and preserve this special fleeting moment in time! We offer family session with newborn too and also like to include furry siblings! 🐶 🐈
Come behind the scenes with this sweet family and toddler with the best laugh in the world. We move fast and multi task in family sessions!! Can’t wait to meet their newest blessing!
2025 is the year of the wedding for me!! This snowy engagement session pretty much made my day when I arrived to 50 degree weather in Richmond at the botanical gardens! We headed straight for the Japanese section and it was magical!