Kyoto Day 2

Setting off early, my first destination was the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a spectacular bamboo forest where you could hear the branches of bamboo creak and rattle in the wind. From there I climbed a hill to a great view of the rest of Arashiyama Park.

The second stop was a short walk away... followed by a large slog up a bigger mountainside! The reward at the top was worth it however, as I arrived at the Iwatayama Monkey Park.

Not only did this park boast a fantastic view of all of Kyoto, there was also a huge number of wild Snow Monkeys. As a twist, guests are allowed to feed the monkeys, but they can only do so from within a building - the monkeys on the outside reaching in. It was an amazing experience to have them take food right from your hand! Outside the monkeys were very relaxed around humans, wandering very close to you, even with their babies.

My final destination of the day was Kinkaku-ji, an absolutely astonishing temple decorated with gold leaf.Read more