That’s round one of Tokyo wrapped up! We absolutely loved it and are definitely going to miss our little base in Ōtsuka. The hotel was brilliant — would 100% recommend it if you’re travelling with kids (or just like being somewhere a little more chilled than the middle of the madness).

After a massive day at Disney, we had a slower start and enjoyed a bit of a sleep-in. I’d booked us on the 12:24 Shinkansen to Kyoto, so we headed to Tokyo Station with plenty of time to spare — which you need, because that place is a full-on experience. It’s hot, packed, and easy to get lost in. Luckily, the magical green-uniformed helpers appeared once again. I don’t know where they come from or where they go, but they’re always there the moment you need them.

Once we were through the gates, we found a little café with aircon and seating and waited there until it was time to board. The Shinkansen itself was such a treat — like flying premium economy. Loads of legroom, comfy reclining seats, and super fast. The trip took about two hours with a couple of quick stops, and I was surprised at how green the countryside was — way more lush than I expected.

Travelling without our luggage was honestly one of the best decisions we made. I’ll pop all the info about baggage forwarding and Shinkansen travel in my tips blog later, but highly recommend.

Once we got into Kyoto, we headed straight to our hotel — Hotel Imagine, not far from the station. I hadn’t realised when I booked it that it has a low-key John Lennon theme running through it (in a cool way, not a tacky way). They’ve even done a collab with Uniqlo and sell exclusive t-shirts — I might grab one before we go.

Our bags were already waiting for us (yay for luggage forwarding again!) and we were able to check in early, which was a win. Another great hotel for families — laundry facilities, a microwave, and you can borrow yukatas (Japanese pyjamas/bathrobe), which added a bit of fun for Jessie. Our room had traditional touches like tatami mats and futon beds — super cosy.

Once Jessie had tried on her yukata and we’d settled in, we walked down the road to a sushi train for lunch. Jessie quickly realised the rotating options weren’t her thing, so she went with ordering via the tablet. Craig went full adventure mode and ordered fish egg sushi — and gave me one to try. I had some cucumber sushi, some tempura and chicken first to mentally prepare. At first bite, the orange ball seemed fine… until it burst. I swear it was like a fishy boba pearl as the liquor covered my tongue. I tried really hard not to gag at the table. Safe to say I’m skipping natto (Google it) on this trip — I was entertaining the idea, but I’m out when it comes to anything known for strong flavour.

After sushi (and after it started getting dark), we walked to Fushimi Inari to see the famous 1,000 torii gates. I’d read that it’s quieter at night, and while it was still pretty busy at the bottom, we knew what that meant — time to climb. Jessie was not thrilled and made that known for most of the way up, but once we got past the crowds (who mainly stay near the start for the photos), it was really peaceful. The higher we got, the quieter it became, and it was really special seeing the shrines lit up at night and looking out over Kyoto. Slight nerves with the warning signs for boars and monkeys — thankfully the only animal we saw was a cat.

The summit was well worth the hike. It had a beautiful shrine surrounded by fox statues — said to be messengers of Inari, the Shinto god of prosperity.

A few quick Fushimi Inari facts:

• It’s a Shinto symbol of prosperity and protection

• Founded in 711 (no, that’s not a typo)

• The main hall was built in 1499

• Mt Inari is 233 metres tall

On the way out, we stopped at a konbini opposite for ice cream. I grabbed the special Fushimi Inari matcha flavour (mango was sold out) — not bad, but Jessie wasn’t into it. She and Craig opted for something a little safer.

We trained it back to the hotel and collapsed into bed. Big day, but such a good one.

Tomorrow we’re off to Gion — the old part of Kyoto. Can’t wait to explore more.

❤ Laus