Quick Trip to Kyoto (ft. Osaka)

If you’re thinking of a vacation outside of Korea and you want a break from the hustle and bustle of Seoul, take a trip to Kyoto! And if you're alright with a bit more action, swing by Osaka, too.

I went with three of my friends (two being from my cohort, yay!) and had the time of my life.

First of all, the matcha in Kyoto? As I’ve mentioned in a previous blog, it’s absolutely incredible. You will be ruined for the rest of your life, because nothing will top the matcha you drink in Kyoto. As far as food goes, every place in both Kyoto and Osaka we were led by Felicia (another IES Seoul Correspondent!) had me tearing up. That food was so good. No one understands how good that food was.

Another thing, the bus and taxi drivers don't steer like they hate you, your family, your family's friends, and your family's friends' friends. Don't get me wrong, there's a certain charm to the drivers in Seoul. They'll get you where you need to go! But I can't always trust that they'll get me there without a concussion </3

Now, listen. Even though your schedule may seem open in early June before finals season, be advised that you are going to be coming off of vacation and landing into the thick of it. Take it from me, who navigated all my finals on half as much sleep as I needed.

Everyone’s situation is different, but I cannot stress enough that you should take advantage of national holidays (no school!) and if possible, try to build a schedule where you have one or two days off each week.

Without further ado, here’s some of my favorite moments from Kyoto and Osaka, courtesy of my wonderful friends playing hopscotch with our phones, cameras, and a shared album I was always getting yelled up to upload pictures to.