Things to do in Nantan

highly recommend this activity! scenic views along the almost 2hour journey. Boatmen were hyping everyone up and it was such a great time aboard!

Having just recovered from a prolonged illness, I was so weak I could barely walk. The few days I spent at this hotel gradually restored my energy and spirit. It allows you to shed your fatigue and let your soul find poetic peace in its tranquility. All the lighting was soft and warm, not too bright to make you dizzy; the bed's firmness was just right to support your back, preventing soreness after lying down for a while; the meals were warm, easily digestible congee and side dishes; even the air had a mild scent, not irritating my sensitive respiratory tract. Every day I leisurely strolled in the courtyard, watching the wildflowers slowly bloom in the corner, sitting under the eaves basking in the sun, even my steps were light. There was no need to rush my recovery, no need to force myself to get better quickly. I stole a half-day of leisure, finding a long-lost sense of ease and freedom. Those few days I lived entirely at my own pace, without any pressure or urging, and my recovery was much faster than I had expected.

A swift ride up the river gorge. Try and get a seat on the RHS for better views but it’s only 20 mins and lots of tunnels so it doesn’t really matter. And be sure to get the river boat back down, it’s the best way back down. You don’t have to book in advance, just get the special direct bus from outside the train station, rock up and ride. Loved the whole thing - about 3 hours total round trip.

You don't have to go all the way to Shirakawa-go to visit the ancient villages in Kyoto. Kayabuki no sato is an ancient village in the countryside of Miyama. The highlight is the ancient houses with thatched roofs and it is a quiet place with few people. It's like you can really recharge your energy.

Fun experience, but definitely recommend arriving early to dodge some of the lines!!!

Fushimi Inari Taisha was a magical place. So beautiful for pictures. We went early evening before it got dark and it was perfect as not too many people. Highly recommended in Kyoto.

Walking under the tall bamboo is magical, and the sound of the leaves moving in the wind is lovely. We went around midday in July and it was crowded near the start, but the far end of the path was much quieter. It's easy to combine with Tenryu-ji's big gate and a walk by the Katsura River. Go early in the morning for empty photos and bring water in summer.