Kyoto changes completely between six and eight in the morning. The lanes of Higashiyama are empty, and the shrines are swept and quiet.
Getting there
The bullet train from Tokyo takes just over two hours.
Where to stay
A small ryokan in Gion, within walking distance of the old streets.
What I would do differently
I would set two alarms. Every early morning was worth it.
🧭
Prices in this guide are what I paid. They move every season, so use them as a rough guide.