Reader’s Question: I’m a first-year university student. I’m planning to take a solo trip by train starting from Kyoto Station in two weeks. Do you have any recommended prefectures?
My Solo Train Adventure from Kyoto: The Perfect Prefectures
Hey there,
fellow travelers! So, here I am, just a first-year university student with a serious case of wanderlust—especially when it comes to Japan. I want to share my experience of a solo train trip starting from Kyoto Station, and trust me, you’re in for a treat. I recently planned my own little adventure and discovered some prefectures that are just begging to be explored. So grab a cup of green tea (or whatever you fancy) and settle in!
Why Trains Are the Best
First off, can we talk about how incredible the Japanese train system is? I mean, you step into those trains, and it’s like you’re hopping into the future. Everything is punctual, clean, and oh-so-efficient. I vividly remember standing at Kyoto Station, looking at the sprawling timetable, feeling a mix of excitement and, honestly, a bit of anxiety. Where to go first? The options were endless!
Now, my first thought was to hit up nearby prefectures, and I decided on a couple of must-visit places: Nara and Hyogo. Let me break it down for you.
Nara: A Day with the Deer
Nara was a no-brainer for me. Just a short ride from Kyoto, I was there before I knew it. The thing that struck me first? The deer. They roam freely like they own the place, which, in a way, they totally do. I had read about Nara Park filled with these adorable creatures, but experiencing it firsthand was something else entirely. There I was, surrounded by friendly deer, trying to feed them special deer crackers. Pro tip: Once they realize you have snacks, they get a bit too excited. I mean, I almost lost my backpack to a particularly ambitious doe!
Aside from the deer, Nara’s temples are stunning. Todai-ji Temple, housing a massive bronze Buddha, literally took my breath away. The craftsmanship is astounding. I sat there for a good while, just soaking it all in. It’s a reminder of how rich and profound Japanese culture is, and trust me, it’s a vibe you don’t want to rush.
Foodie Finds in Nara
And oh, let’s talk food—because what’s travel without trying the local cuisine, right? I stumbled upon a cute little café that served kakinoha-zushi, a local sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves. It was this perfect little morsel of flavor that I’m still dreaming about. Honestly, if you’re a sushi lover, this is a must-try. I sat outside, enjoying my meal, with deer casually approaching my side. What a scene!
After a day filled with exploration and, let’s be real, a little deer drama, I hopped back on the train, feeling like I had a glimpse of a totally different world. Nara gave me a taste of Japan’s past, and I loved every minute of it.
Hyogo: The Land of Sake and Scenic Views
Next up on my train itinerary was Hyogo. It’s not as touristy as some other places, but that’s what I loved about it. My first stop? Kobe, the capital of Hyogo Prefecture and a city famous for its beef! I mean, who wouldn’t want to try world-renowned Kobe beef? Seriously, it’s on another level. I found a small restaurant where I treated myself to a wagyu beef steak that melted in my mouth like butter. I was in heaven!
While in Kobe, I also made sure to visit the beautiful waterfront area. It was such a nice change of pace from the hustle and bustle of Kyoto. I strolled along Meriken Park, and the view of the harbor with the iconic Kobe Port Tower was simply stunning. Imagine basking in the sun, taking in that fresh sea breeze while munching on some delicious street food. Absolute bliss!
Craving Sake? You’re in Luck!
But wait, there’s more! I couldn’t visit Hyogo without indulging in some local sake. So, I headed to the Nada district, famous for its sake breweries. I went on a sake tasting tour, and wow, what an experience! I learned how this liquid gold is made and got to sample a few different varieties. Let me tell you, it was like a flavor explosion in my mouth. Who knew there were so many different types?
Honestly, I was a bit nervous about going solo, but once I started chatting with the locals and other travelers, I realized that people are super friendly. I made a couple of friends during the tasting, and we ended up sharing stories and laughs. That’s the beauty of travel—it connects you with others, even if it’s just for a moment.
Wrapping Up My Journey
As my solo trip began to wind down, I couldn’t help but think about how much I had experienced. From the friendly deer of Nara to the delicious beef and sake in Hyogo, every moment was a little adventure in itself. I felt a sense of independence and empowerment, which is something I wasn’t expecting. I mean, if I could navigate the Japanese train system and explore new places on my own, maybe I could do anything!
Looking back, I totally recommend these prefectures for anyone considering a solo trip starting from Kyoto. You get a mix of nature, culture, and good food, all packed into a few short train rides. Plus, it’s super convenient and affordable if you have a Japan Rail Pass. I truly believe that these experiences helped me grow, not just as a traveler, but also as a person.
Final Thoughts
So if you’re thinking about taking that solo train journey, don’t hesitate! Grab your backpack, your curiosity, and just go. There’s a whole world out there waiting for you, and who knows? You might just find a little piece of yourself along the way. I can’t wait for my next adventure, and I hope to see you on the journey!
Happy travels, my friends! Remember, the world is small, but our adventures can be huge. Safe travels!
