Ja

 For this year’s blog entry, I am reflecting on this word “ja”. It is a Japanese expression that loosely translates to “sige” in Filipino, or perhaps this is just my personal opinion that they have similar meanings. I chose this word as the center of this article because as we look back at what happened in 2020 with all the effects of the COVID19 on our lives especially for people who love to travel, I feel that this word “ja” fits the moment. It’s like saying “Ja, mata ne.” So then see you again. Or just “ja”... so then. Or “ja”, Sige, Let it be...

 I chose to feature Kyoto this time. It is one place in the world I won’t get tired of visiting especially in autumn, when the breeze is cool and the surroundings are colorful. I love visiting temples in Kyoto, to pray, to marvel, and to find inspiration. Sometimes, just to sit, eat, laugh and enjoy the weather with my travel buddy. Of special mention are Kiyomizu dera, Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkakuji - my top 3 favorite places in Kyoto. Other than their sprawling picture-perfect environs, I also find these places awe-inspiring. Here are some photos to color the words.

 To get there, I usually fly to Kansai and take the train to Kyoto. Sometimes, I spend a few nights in Osaka, too. My friends also go on a side trip to Nara or Nagoya when they are in the area, but for me Kyoto-Osaka is a good itinerary if I only have a one-week holiday. I tried hotels, youth hostels, ryokan, even air bnb, and they’re all good depending on your budget. Train is your best way around but you’ll have to figure out how the several train lines connect and which way is the optimum to reach your target destination. Sometimes getting lost bring pleasant surprises, too :)

 For food, you’ll never go wrong with ramen, onigiri, karage, yakisoba, chocolates and all things with macha flavor.

 Ja, until we can travel again to Japan!