If you have that famous I-see-faces-everywhere thing, look twice. The Face House really exists in Kyoto, created by Kazumasa Yamashita in 1973-1974.
Don’t miss it - it’s something really faceinating!
Hey ho, my name is Jo.
I’m an illustrator based in Wroclaw, Poland, collaborating with the clients around the world, such as The Guardian, ELLE Italia or Opéra National de Paris.
Can’t live without traveling, palm trees and prosecco.
The Murin-an Garden is a Japanese garden designed by Jihei Ogawa VII, one of the most renowned garden designers of the Meiji era. Established in 1894, it is a relatively modern garden by Kyoto standards, yet its beauty makes it well worth a visit. The garden employs the technique of "borrowed scenery," seamlessly incorporating the surrounding natural landscapes and the flow of water, showcasing Jihei Ogawa's innovative approach as a pioneer of "naturalistic gardens."
While Zen gardens are particularly famous in Kyoto, comparing them with Murin-an allows visitors to appreciate the distinctive features of each. This comparison enriches the experience of explorin Japanese gardens.
Admission Fee: General admission ¥500 (please check the official website for details).
Opening Hours: Usually 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (subject to change depending on the season or events).
This is a local liquor store that has been here since before I was born, offering not only alcohol but also rice, tobacco, and other daily necessities. The owner, who is always there in the mornings and afternoons, is a very friendly and wonderful person. You can buy and drink inside the store, and smoking is allowed as well. I often see people gathering to enjoy a drink, smoke, and have casual conversations with the owner. This kind of super-local, cozy atmosphere is one of my favorite things about the place.
Kyoto's summers are famously hot, but if you take the Eizan Railway and get off at Yase-Hieizanguchi Station, you'll find a spot along the Takano river where you can cool off, enjoy a barbecue, or relax by the water with a drink and read. This spot is particularly recommended for those staying in Kyoto long-term rather than for short-term tourists.