After seeing the macaques we pedalled for 40 minutes until we reached the Kinkaku-ji, a golden Japanese temple that is quite the view.

Riding on the outskirts of Kyoto was lots of fun: we came across all kinds of gardens, tiny streets and a couple of private farms.

Reached Kinkaku-ji after an hour pedalling through narrow alleys.

Kinkaku-ji means Temple of the Golden Pavilion; not to be mistaken with Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion). It’s located up north, far away from the city center, which makes it unique in its environment and atmosphere, despite the horde of tourists.

On our way back to the hotel, already without the bikes, we came across a ramen restaurant called Salt Ramen that looked like it had delicious food, so after a quick shower we got our ramen fix for the day, and we were so glad we did. We ordered a different version of Hiyashi Chuka, cold noodles soup with arugula, meat, crab and fresh cherry tomatoes, and the minute we took a sip from that broth we knew that was the best bowl of cold noodles we had had.

Ready for our final ride to the hotel.

Passing by Nijo Castle.

Commuting by bike is very popular in Japan, but specially in Kyoto.

After a much needed shower, he hit the streets, including Teramachi and Shin Kyogoku shopping arcades.

We called this Salt Ramen, but couldn’t find anything online, so maybe the name is different. Thank you sundaytokyo for letting us know this is in fact Ryukishin!

Awesome hiyashi-chuka with crab legs, pork, arugula, cherry tomato and nori.

Free cold tea, as most restaurants have in the hot summer.

Slowing strolling back to the hotel after a magnificent dinner.

Finally, a cat donut for dessert.