Kickin’ it in Kyoto

Hey all, my name is Ethan Adams. I’m a Junior at Hope College (Michigan) who embarked on an adventure abroad with CIEE’s Ancient and Modern Japan (AMJ) program. Now, two and a half months in, I’ve spent countless hours wandering Kyoto’s streets, weaving through its shrines, parks, and temples—each one a living testament to the city’s rich history. I even found myself hiking up a mountain in ankle-deep snow, an experience I can confidently say I only want to do it once in my lifetime.

What makes Kyoto stand out from other places in Japan is the seamless blend of the old and the new. Here, you’ll stumble upon a 1,000-year-old temple standing proudly beside a sleek, modern McDonald’s. It’s a city brimming with hidden treasures, rewarding those who take the time to explore its never-ending alleyways. One of my most memorable finds has been Kenkun Shrine (see picture below), perched atop Mt. Funaoka. This spot is said to be the place of worship for Genbu of the North, one of the four cardinal god beasts that once protected the Heian (modern-day Kyoto) capital. The shrine itself honors Lord Oda Nobunaga, the brilliant warlord who unified half of Japan under his rule. Reaching this site wasn’t quick, I had to go up a steep set of stairs, but the breathtaking panoramic view at the top made every step worth it. (If you’re ever in Kyoto, do yourself a favor and check out the view)

^{Kenkun Shrine (Kyoto)}

Now, let’s talk about that snowy mountain hike. One of my friends had the bright idea of climbing Mt. Hiei, an 848.1 m (2,782 ft) elevation. I was game. My family has always loved hiking, and growing up in Indiana, just ten minutes from the Dunes, I’ve tackled my fair share of rough terrain. I’ve conquered the Grand Canyon and the Pinnacles in California, so what was one more mountain? Turns out, the mountain gods (kami) had a little surprise for us. In what can only be described as divine retribution for my overconfidence, Kyoto was hit with one of the worst snowfalls my host mom had seen in her 78 years.

But we were determined. No storm was going to turn us back. With every step, the biting wind and thick snow tested our resolve, but we pressed on, capturing some incredible scenes (bottom left picture for reference). For four grueling hours, we trudged through -5°C (23°F) weather, pushing ourselves up the mountain. By the time we reached the top, exhaustion had completely overtaken us. It was physically draining, mentally taxing, and overall our legs were on fire, but that just made the sense of accomplishment even sweeter.

^{Mt. Hiei (Shiga)}

Kyoto has given me the best of both worlds: the electrifying energy of a major city and the serenity of countless scenic spots. Being surrounded by mountains has shaped not only the city’s skyline but also its spirit. Every walk, every turn, every climb brings a new perspective, and that’s what makes Kickin’ it in Kyoto so unforgettable.