Our second time in Kyoto was just as fun as the first. Though we missed our perfect ryokan, we adjusted to our fancy hotel near Koto station. We stayed more local than we had originally planned, choosing to take the time to really get to know the city that has become one of our favorite places in the world.
A substantial amount of rain somewhat impacted our activities, but we spent more time enjoying (and eating) in Nishiki market, and wandering a rainy Gion.
We toured the special exhibition of waka (court poetry) at the Kyoto National Museum, and walked nearby streets.
On Friday, a pottery festival was held at Kiyomizuyaki-danchi, with booths selling ceramics made by artisans throughout Japan. Many of these artists sold their own wares, and were more than happy to tell us about their processes. We bought a set of mid-matched small plated from various booths to use for small sides at home.
On our last two days in Kyoto we revisited some of our favorite places (including the Tsukemen and soufflé pancakes, yum!), strolled once again through the imperial palace park, and shopped in local antique stores. We never expected to feel so at home in a city so far from home. Thank you, Kyoto, for such a wonderful trip.
