Exploring Kyoto’s Countryside | Rice Terraces, Woodfire Bath, Cozy Cafes & Slow Living | JAPAN VLOG

Riri Travels · Summary by Tubewise · Watch on YouTube

TL;DR

A travel vlog exploring the serene countryside of Kyoto, Japan, featuring local food, crafts, traditional architecture, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Key insights

The video showcases a trip to the countryside of Kyoto, Japan, highlighting its serene atmosphere and local attractions.

The journey begins with a train ride, offering glimpses of the scenic landscape.
The accommodation is a cozy, traditional house with wooden accents.
The trip includes visits to local shops, restaurants, and a shrine.

The experience emphasizes the charm of rural Japan, with a focus on local produce and traditional crafts.

The video features a farm shop selling local produce like chestnuts and seasonal vegetables.
A local cafe and gallery showcases handmade items, including pottery and artwork.
The importance of local specialties, such as chestnut-based products, is highlighted.

The trip offers a glimpse into Japanese culture and lifestyle, from traditional architecture to local cuisine.

The video showcases traditional thatched-roof houses and a serene shrine in the forest.
The food experiences include local dishes like chicken oyako-don and a traditional bath heated by firewood.
The overall atmosphere is described as peaceful and nostalgic, offering a different kind of travel experience.

Key moments

00:00The video begins with a scenic train ride through the Japanese countryside, setting the tone for a peaceful journey.
00:03A person walks down a road in the countryside, surrounded by fields and mountains.
00:05The video shows a traditional Japanese house, which is where the traveler will be staying.
00:09A close-up of breakfast items, including croissants, eggs, and juice, is shown.
00:11A panoramic view of the countryside, with rice fields and traditional houses, is presented.
00:12A display of colorful Japanese sweets, likely mochi, is shown in a shop window.
00:14A dessert featuring ice cream and chestnuts is presented, highlighting local ingredients.
00:15A person is shown preparing a traditional bath, heated by firewood.
00:17A meal of curry rice with seasonal vegetables is served, emphasizing the local cuisine.
00:18Another meal is shown, featuring rice, fish, and pickled vegetables.
00:19A cozy bedroom with a view of a snowy landscape is shown.
00:21A person enters a traditional building, surrounded by autumn foliage.
00:23The interior of a train is shown, with green velvet seats and large windows.
00:30The train passes through a residential area with traditional Japanese houses.
00:37Inside the train, a conductor is visible, and the journey continues through a tunnel.
00:43The train is decorated with Tom & Jerry themed artwork, indicating a special edition.
01:03The exterior of the train is shown, with the number 5125 and a Tom & Jerry sticker.
01:08The train is described as shiny, reflecting the surroundings.
01:14The train is seen at a station, with the word 'goodbye!' written on it.
01:23The traveler arrives at their accommodation, 'Atelier Tonari', a cute little house booked on Airbnb.
01:35A bamboo forest with maple leaves is shown, creating a picturesque autumn scene.
01:59The traveler explores the surrounding area, noting a wood-working shop.
02:06The video zooms in on a sign for a wood-working shop.
02:09The interior of the wood-working shop is shown, filled with lumber and tools.
02:13A close-up of a rustic building with a water tank on the roof.
02:16The traveler walks along a road with a view of hills and houses.
02:22A local sake factory is mentioned, with stacks of sake crates.
02:28The traveler walks down a street with houses and a clear blue sky.
02:33A house with solar panels is shown against a backdrop of hills.
02:41The traveler reflects on the soothing atmosphere of the idyllic countryside.
02:47A distant view of a temple on a hill, surrounded by autumn foliage.
02:51A view of a house and fields at sunset, with mountains in the background.
03:07A sneak peek into the bathroom reveals a tiled interior and a traditional bath.
03:13The interior of the accommodation shows a cozy living space with wooden accents.
03:20A traditional cooker is featured, with a stove and multiple cooking pots.
03:26The area where the fire is started to heat the bath is shown.
03:32A glimpse into the tiled bathroom, with wooden buckets and a shower.
03:43The cozy interior of the house is shown, with a dining table, chairs, and wooden accents.
04:04The kitchen area is equipped with a sink, kettle, coffee maker, and various groceries.
04:10Hand-drawn instructions for making breakfast and brewing coffee are displayed.
04:23The refrigerator is stocked with yogurt, eggs, and drinks, described as thoughtful and cute.
04:31The tiled bathroom is highlighted as a pretty feature, with a traditional bath heated by firewood.
04:44The cozy set of beds upstairs is shown, with pillows featuring ski-themed embroidery.
04:53The video shows the exterior of a restaurant called 'Keyaki'.
05:00The interior of the Japanese restaurant is shown, with a bar and a TV displaying a program.
05:10A menu with reasonable prices is displayed.
05:15A gas cylinder and a keg are shown, likely related to the restaurant's beverage service.
05:18A traditional Japanese seating area with low tables and cushions is shown.
05:22A 'Pork Ginger Rice Set' is presented, featuring rice, meat, vegetables, and soup.
05:26The food is described as delicious and home-cooked, making the travel experience special.
05:45The traveler is preparing breakfast, toasting bread and arranging salad.
06:05The traveler is shown peeling eggs for breakfast.
06:09The joy of waking up early and preparing a hearty spread is highlighted.
06:17Bread is being toasted in a small oven, with a warm glow.
06:21The process of preparing breakfast is described as easy and simple, thanks to the host's preparations.
06:29A slice of toast with butter and salad is shown, with a person adding more greens.
06:35Two breakfast plates are set up, each with toast, salad, eggs, and a sausage.
06:42The traveler expresses their love for traveling and the ideas they bring back.
06:53Orange juice is being poured into glasses, complementing the breakfast.
07:01The countryside is described as the perfect place to go with the flow.
07:08The host mentions a hidden temple in the nearby mountains.
07:21A path leads to a shrine, with a large statue of Buddha in the distance.
07:27A map of the temple complex is displayed, showing its vastness.
07:33The path to the temple involves a constant uphill walk.
07:40The statues become more numerous and larger as one ascends the path.
07:51A closer look at the statues and the shrine's surroundings.
08:01The path leads to a torii gate, with more statues and a shrine visible beyond.
08:11The temple itself is described as unassuming, but a closer look reveals hidden figures.
08:23Unexpected little figures, possibly Pokemon-themed, are found hidden around the shrine.
09:03The video shows a path leading to a large golden Buddha statue.
09:15The traveler reaches the top of the complex, with a large Buddha statue overlooking the area.
09:23The impressive Buddha statue is shown, surrounded by smaller statues and trees.
09:28The statues lining the stairs are described as interesting, with various expressions.
09:53The traveler visits 'Satoduto', a cafe, gallery, and zakka shop.
09:59The entrance to the shop is shown, with a person entering.
10:04The interior of the cafe is cozy, with a fireplace and large windows overlooking the scenery.
10:14Shelves display trinkets crafted by local artists, including glassware, pottery, and artwork.
10:22Hand-drawn postcards and homemade candles are also available for sale.
10:27Unique calendars with artistic illustrations are showcased.
10:35Jars of locally produced honey are displayed, highlighting regional specialties.
10:39Various chestnut products, such as chestnut butter and chestnut puddings, are featured.
10:48Beautiful dried flower arrangements are available for sale.
10:53A table displays handmade crafts, including baskets, gnomes, and decorative balls.
11:05A map of the town is displayed, showcasing various points of interest.
11:13Close-up shots of handmade crafts, including gnomes and decorative balls.
11:18The interior of the cafe is shown, with a counter, seating, and shelves displaying goods.
11:40The menu is presented, featuring lunch options and drinks.
12:03A colorful curry dish with rice and salad is shown.
12:07Sandwiches and a cup of tea are presented, highlighting the cafe's offerings.
12:11A sandwich with apple slices, cream cheese, and ham is shown, described as a refreshing combination.
12:17The traveler enjoys a sandwich, finding it surprisingly tasty.
12:27A cup of coffee is placed on a table with a view of the countryside.
12:32A car is parked near a flowering tree, with a scenic view of the countryside.
12:36Close-up of a tree with pink flowers, showcasing the natural beauty of the area.
12:39A road winds through the countryside, with houses and hills in the distance.
13:10A person in a white outfit enters a traditional building with a thatched roof, surrounded by red maple leaves.
13:16The entrance area of a traditional Japanese house is shown, with slippers neatly arranged.
13:22The interior of the house reveals a space that functions as a coffee shop, gallery, and kitchen for cooking classes.
13:38A local Japanese brand offers clothing crafted from natural materials, with a focus on soft and comfortable wear.
14:01A mannequin displays a dark blue coat and a grey vest, showcasing the brand's style.
14:06The traveler purchased a 100% cotton turtleneck, appreciating its quality.
14:19The path to a shrine is lined with statues and fallen maple leaves.
14:32A farm shop is encountered, selling local produce like pumpkins and cabbage.
14:39The shop offers various chestnut products, including puddings and snacks.
14:51Chestnut mochi snacks and chestnut dressing are displayed, highlighting regional specialties.
15:04The farm shop also sells unique products made from local chestnuts, such as 'Marron Bouchee'.
15:13Chestnut 'yokan', a jelly-like sweet, is also available.
15:18The traveler picks up a jar of chestnut jam.
15:44The interior of the cafe is shown, with a bar and shelves displaying various items.
15:49A sake bar is exclusively open for the two travelers, offering a cozy experience.
15:49The traveler is served a meal with aubergine and 'satoimo' (Japanese potato).
16:06The meal includes soup and a vegetable side dish.
16:11The traveler asks for 'satoimo' again, finding it delicious.
16:15The rice is from the host's father, a rice farmer, and the chestnuts on top are from his farm.
16:43The woodfire bath is being prepared, with logs being added to the fire.
16:49The circular bathtub with tiled sides is shown, reminiscent of 'My Neighbor Totoro'.
17:10The heat from the bath relaxes the muscles, making one feel like jelly.
17:28The traveler visits Utataki Shrine, a quiet and mysterious shrine hidden in the forest.
17:40The path to the shrine is lined with statues, and the statues become more numerous and larger as one ascends.
18:01The traveler encounters a large Buddha statue at the top of a long staircase.
18:11The temple complex is described as massive, with many smaller shrines and statues.
18:23Unexpected little figures, resembling Pokemon, are found around the shrine.
18:49The path to the main shrine is lined with stone lanterns and smaller shrines.
19:01The main shrine is nestled in a forest, with a torii gate marking the entrance.
19:17A large bottle of sake is seen as an offering at a shrine.
19:22A special mound next to the shrine is shown, with stones tied together with red strings.
19:46The stones are tied together with red strings, and placed with others to make a prayer.
19:51A stone statue of two figures, with red strings tied around them, is shown.
20:00The Airbnb host and partner invite the travelers for lunch at a restaurant specializing in beef.
20:04A beef lunch set is presented, including rice, salad, and side dishes.
20:10The beef dish is described as delicious and well-priced.
20:15Another meal is shown, featuring croquettes, salad, rice, and pickles.
20:22The traveler is dropped off at the region's famous rice fields, located at the foot of Mt. Mikusa.
20:29The rice terraces are described as being among Japan's top 100 rice terraces.
20:45A view of the countryside with rice fields and traditional houses, with a promise of lush green in summer.
20:49The clear air and nostalgic feeling of the countryside are highlighted.
21:04A panoramic view of the village with traditional thatched-roof houses and rice fields.
21:22The traditional thatched-roof houses are shown, with their unique architecture preserved.
21:46A road leads through the village, with a broken car resembling the flying car from Harry Potter.
21:53A canal runs through the rice fields, reflecting the sky.
22:10The traveler walks down a road towards the main road, with rice terraces on either side.
22:17The scenery turns golden as sunset approaches, with a canal reflecting the sky.
22:24A beautiful view of the countryside at sunset, with mountains in the background.
22:42The traveler visits a traditional sweets shop called 'Kida Kashi Ten'.
22:51The shop sells mainly Japanese 'daifuku', which are round mochi filled with sweet fillings.
23:12Handmade gummy sweets in various animal shapes are displayed, described as cute and like tiny sculptures.
23:25The traveler buys a variety of sweets, including a cream cannoli and a white bean paste daifuku.
23:41The daifuku is described as surprisingly tasty, with the bean paste providing a nutty flavor.
24:00The Airbnb host invites the travelers for lunch at a restaurant specializing in beef.
24:04A delicious beef lunch set is served, with rice, salad, and side dishes.
24:23The rice is from the host's father, a rice farmer, and the chestnuts on top are from his farm.
24:47A dessert with caramelized chestnuts is presented, described as extra sweet.
25:03The traveler is shown a traditional bath heated by firewood, with a circular tub and tiled walls.
25:16The traveler wakes up to a snowy morning, with a view of a winter wonderland.
25:20The cozy interior of the accommodation is shown, with a laptop displaying a winter scene.
25:26The traveler enjoys a slow-paced morning, making coffee and appreciating the moment.
25:40The coffee-making process is shown, highlighting the pour-over method.
25:56The traveler enjoys a cup of coffee, appreciating the slow pace and the present moment.
26:02The video ends with a thank you message and a reminder to subscribe for more content.