skibeerr
Well-known
Thanks to my lovely wife who is a speaker on a congress in Kyoto we get the chance to visit Japan.
The congress runs for five days and afterwards we have one week to see the sights. Maybe go back to Tokyo sooner as we fly from there.
As Japan is a great unknown to me any information is welcome
Camerastores, what else to do while my wife works.
Things to see around Kyoto. We love to hike.
Do's and dont's
Prices of film, I am now in an Acros period.
I would like to buy a Fuji GW670III is it worth waiting until I get there (price/availability)
Weather, last weeks of november are cold I presume.
Anything you would like to tell me about.
Cheers,
Wim
The congress runs for five days and afterwards we have one week to see the sights. Maybe go back to Tokyo sooner as we fly from there.
As Japan is a great unknown to me any information is welcome
Camerastores, what else to do while my wife works.
Things to see around Kyoto. We love to hike.
Do's and dont's
Prices of film, I am now in an Acros period.
I would like to buy a Fuji GW670III is it worth waiting until I get there (price/availability)
Weather, last weeks of november are cold I presume.
Anything you would like to tell me about.
Cheers,
Wim
Shutterspark
The perpetual new guy.
I'm based in Tokyo but I'll chime in on a few snippets:
-Camera no Naniwa is probably the biggest camera chain in that region of Japan, but there aren't that many stores dealing with used equipment in Kyoto.
-The must sees of Kyoto include Kiyomizu-dera and Kinkakuji. For hiking you have a huge number of options in the region, I'm not really sure where to start.
-Acros is one of the cheapest films you can buy off the shelf in Japan, you can get a pack of 5 rolls in 120 for 1700 yen. About 450 yen a roll for 135 36ex.
-You won't have a problem of availability when it comes to buying cameras, but you'll have much much more choice in Tokyo (or Osaka) if you're shopping used. The GW670III can be had for 30,000-70,000 depending on where you're shopping and the condition.
-Kyoto is colder than Tokyo, but winters are pretty dry here.
Hope you have a good time. I'm sure someone else can help fill you in on the details and provide more info.
-Camera no Naniwa is probably the biggest camera chain in that region of Japan, but there aren't that many stores dealing with used equipment in Kyoto.
-The must sees of Kyoto include Kiyomizu-dera and Kinkakuji. For hiking you have a huge number of options in the region, I'm not really sure where to start.
-Acros is one of the cheapest films you can buy off the shelf in Japan, you can get a pack of 5 rolls in 120 for 1700 yen. About 450 yen a roll for 135 36ex.
-You won't have a problem of availability when it comes to buying cameras, but you'll have much much more choice in Tokyo (or Osaka) if you're shopping used. The GW670III can be had for 30,000-70,000 depending on where you're shopping and the condition.
-Kyoto is colder than Tokyo, but winters are pretty dry here.
Hope you have a good time. I'm sure someone else can help fill you in on the details and provide more info.
ronnies
Well-known
There are loads of temples in Kyoto. Kinkakuji has already been mentioned but there's also Ginkakuji, Sanjusangen-do, Shimogamo, The Imperial Palace and lots more.
The Railway station is quite modern and photgenic in places too.
Ronnie
The Railway station is quite modern and photgenic in places too.
Ronnie
markwatts
Mark Watts
We visited Hiroshima for the day from Kyoto. Easy by train and a very worthwhile experience. Kyoto is a delightful city. Enjoy.
Griffin
Grampa's cameras user
+1 for the Hiroshima trip. A must-see for everyone!
kbg32
neo-romanticist
You should do the "Poet's" or "Philosopher's Walk". Beautiful. I was there over 20 years ago and would love to go back.
http://www.cosmotourist.com/travel/d/i/2558056/t/kyoto/the-philosopher-s-walk/
http://www.cosmotourist.com/travel/d/i/2558056/t/kyoto/the-philosopher-s-walk/
skibeerr
Well-known
Thanks for the info, keep it coming.
LeicaFan
Well-known
My suggestions might be too "touristy" for some, so I apologize in advance...
The Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle, and Golden Pavilion are all wonderful places to visit. "Old Town" Kyoto (sorry, I don't know the actual name) is also a great place to visit.
Other than that, there are many shrines and temples scattered through the city. They are worth visiting, IMHO.
I was only able to spend 1 day in Kyoto, but I wish I could have spent more time. It is a wonderful city and has a different vibe than Tokyo (more laid back).
The Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle, and Golden Pavilion are all wonderful places to visit. "Old Town" Kyoto (sorry, I don't know the actual name) is also a great place to visit.
Other than that, there are many shrines and temples scattered through the city. They are worth visiting, IMHO.
I was only able to spend 1 day in Kyoto, but I wish I could have spent more time. It is a wonderful city and has a different vibe than Tokyo (more laid back).
gavinlg
Veteran
Honestly go to Tokyo or Osaka as soon as you can - especially Tokyo. I personally didn't like Kyoto anywhere near as much as the former two.
sunyata
Newbie
Fall colors
Fall colors
The end of November will be the peak of the fall foliage season, also known as Koyo. Be ready for crowds, primarily Japanese tourists. Also consider shooting in color, as the colors will be quite impressive. Temperatures are not that cold, perhaps 10-15 in the daytime, and dry. Japan seems to be more famous for cherry blossoms, but having experienced both, I think the fall was more striking. japan-guide.com has excellent, free information on this and other topics.
Fall colors
The end of November will be the peak of the fall foliage season, also known as Koyo. Be ready for crowds, primarily Japanese tourists. Also consider shooting in color, as the colors will be quite impressive. Temperatures are not that cold, perhaps 10-15 in the daytime, and dry. Japan seems to be more famous for cherry blossoms, but having experienced both, I think the fall was more striking. japan-guide.com has excellent, free information on this and other topics.
dogbunny
Registered Boozer
My wife is from Kyoto. We just returned home from a month's visit to Japan. Fushimi Inari Taisha is worth seeing, in addition to all the stuff mentioned above. The geisha district, Gion is also pretty cool. Kyoto is probably the most touristy of cities in Japan, but there is a reason for that--lots of history and interesting things to see.
Also, you can get to most major cities in the vicinity in an hour or so. Nara and Osaka are worth a day trip.
Have fun!
db
Also, you can get to most major cities in the vicinity in an hour or so. Nara and Osaka are worth a day trip.
Have fun!
db
Himeji makes for a nice day trip from Kyoto, or a stop off point on your way to or from Hiroshima from Kyoto. Its home to Himeji Castle, perhaps the most impressive of the few genuine castles that escaped destruction during the Meiji Restoration. Most castles you see throughout Japan are concrete reconstructions of the originals, but not this one. Its the real thing. Definitely worth a visit if you're into that sort of thing and have time.
Rayt
Nonplayer Character
On my next Osaka/Kyoto trip it will be with my 8x10. I really love it there.
maddoc
... likes film again.
Himeji is nice but a little overrated as are Kyoto, Tokyo and Osaka. Also, half of Himeji castle is hidden under a huge construction tent since two years and it would better to check if construction has been finished. Personally, I would recommend Hiroshima, Nara and Kobe as places to visit and Tokyo (two days max) for some shopping.
As a foreigner you can apply for tax-refund in some shops (for example biccamera / yodobashi camera) if you bring your passport. Kyoto is very crowded during this time in November so be prepared for waiting times at famous spots. Also remember that tripods are not allowed inside many temples / gardens since it is too crowded.
As a foreigner you can apply for tax-refund in some shops (for example biccamera / yodobashi camera) if you bring your passport. Kyoto is very crowded during this time in November so be prepared for waiting times at famous spots. Also remember that tripods are not allowed inside many temples / gardens since it is too crowded.
skibeerr
Well-known
Thanks for your advise so far!
Now about food and language.
My wife is a vegetarian and like S.L. Jackson that makes me kind of a vegetarian to
We know Japan is the birthplace of the Macrobiotic diet but we heard some stories about there being not much diversity, mostly meat and rice dishes which makes no sense with all that sea around.
Second the language, is it safe to presume some people will speak English?
Wim
Now about food and language.
My wife is a vegetarian and like S.L. Jackson that makes me kind of a vegetarian to
We know Japan is the birthplace of the Macrobiotic diet but we heard some stories about there being not much diversity, mostly meat and rice dishes which makes no sense with all that sea around.
Second the language, is it safe to presume some people will speak English?
Wim
marcoinhawaii
Member
try the shojin-ryori or monk food in Kyoto. There is a place at the Daitokui-ji Temple. amazing veggie food.
lots of Japanese can speak at the least a basic amount of "Engrish" but many will be intimidated to do so. Since Kyoto is a touristy town, there are many places which will have a person who can speak tourist English. best to always approach younger women as they tend to be less shy and more willing to speak than men and older people but you'd be surprised at most people's friendliness.
talk slow and assume they won't speak too much. I've always just approached people and asked "do you speak english?" most of the time the response will be "just a little" and that's good enough to get by.
picture wise, Japan is an overload. Just get a western guide book and set out. Frommer's is a good choice.
lots of Japanese can speak at the least a basic amount of "Engrish" but many will be intimidated to do so. Since Kyoto is a touristy town, there are many places which will have a person who can speak tourist English. best to always approach younger women as they tend to be less shy and more willing to speak than men and older people but you'd be surprised at most people's friendliness.
talk slow and assume they won't speak too much. I've always just approached people and asked "do you speak english?" most of the time the response will be "just a little" and that's good enough to get by.
picture wise, Japan is an overload. Just get a western guide book and set out. Frommer's is a good choice.
marcoinhawaii
Member
also, on costs, the dollar is now 20-25% weaker to the yen...I don't know what ozzie exchange rate is but I'd pack my film from home and take it with me. I've also noticed that in Japan, used cameras can cost as much as new cameras in the US. You might be able to go window shop but buying maybe a bit pricey.
also if you travel too much, you won't see that much. figure on Tokyo or another place but there is so much to see in Kyoto, you might not feel like you can see it all. Kyoto and Tokyo are great. Osaka is close by and it has great night life and visuals. Kobe is also just down the road and is beautiful. I've found the tri-city spots of Kobe, Osaka, and Kyoto to kinda have it all. Tokyo is New Yorkish with a bazillion pushy people and lots of lights.
Again, Frommer's or another guide book is a great start.
also if you travel too much, you won't see that much. figure on Tokyo or another place but there is so much to see in Kyoto, you might not feel like you can see it all. Kyoto and Tokyo are great. Osaka is close by and it has great night life and visuals. Kobe is also just down the road and is beautiful. I've found the tri-city spots of Kobe, Osaka, and Kyoto to kinda have it all. Tokyo is New Yorkish with a bazillion pushy people and lots of lights.
Again, Frommer's or another guide book is a great start.
Texsport
Well-known
Remember to remove your shoes when you enter a temple.
Texsport
Texsport
fireblade
Vincenzo.
icebear
Veteran
Thanks for your advise so far!
Now about food and language.
My wife is a vegetarian and like S.L. Jackson that makes me kind of a vegetarian to
We know Japan is the birthplace of the Macrobiotic diet but we heard some stories about there being not much diversity, mostly meat and rice dishes which makes no sense with all that sea around.
Second the language, is it safe to presume some people will speak English?
Wim
Hi Wim,
as for the food : Be prepared for the best quality food anywhere. Japanese are obsessed with freshest quality. Just be curious to try a lot of new things that you will never know by name. Some things maybe a bit strange and they do love different textures of food, especially a bit on the chewy side sometimes. The meat and rice thing - forget about it, rubbish ! Seafood is the number one protein source. Beef is seriously expensive if it's original Japanese raised beef.
In terms of language : Please do NOT expect everyone speaking English but expect everyone going out of their way to help you if you ask politely, friendly starting with a few Japanese words and then switching to basic English, slowly and short sentences. Often people are shy to speak English but they will try to help you. If you are bold, noisy and just expect everyone to speak perfect English, they will just pretend no to understand a single word you say.
Be open and enjoy this wonderful country.