Uoshin Sushi (魚心壽司) is the reason why we didn’t overfeed ourselves crazy along Nishiki Market. The sushi chain has got 6 outlets across Japan and its Kyoto outlet is located at the bustling Kawaramachi-dori (河原町). It seems worthy enough to save some stomach space for their giant sushi from the reviews I read.

Giant sushi galore

The difference between the sushi here and elsewhere is their sizes. Uoshin’s salmon sushi is served with a big chunk of salmon. It’s easily three times the size of the average. It’s near impossible to eat the sushi with one bite, just look at the pictures below…

We have to call it a day after six plates of delicious sushi. Would love to have more but our stomachs are already filled to the brim. Fresh + Big = Immense satisfaction.

Spending the evening at Kyoto Tower

After the splendid dinner at Uoshin Sushi, we make our way to Kyoto tower. The candle-shaped tower is the tallest structure in Kyoto despite being built in the 1960s. The imposed height restrictions on buildings have prevented Kyoto landscape to be dominated by skyscrapers – a big contrast comparing to Tokyo.

I think the measures allow Kyoto to hold on to its ancient past even when the city continues to embrace modernization. It feels like being at a juncture where the past and present had fused nicely together.

Towering above all in Kyoto

The observation tower stands out noticeably when one steps out of Kyoto Station. It’s kinda like a lighthouse in the city – those staying at Kyoto Tower Hotel will never have difficulty locating it. Yup, that’s right. Kyoto Tower sits pretty on top of Kyoto Tower Hotel where its guests get to visit the observation deck for free.

We are not staying at Kyoto Tower Hotel so the admission tickets cost us 770 JPY per pax.

The elevator goes to the 11th floor before taking another elevator to the observation deck on the 15th floor. Immediately, the 100 metres tall observation deck gives us a clear panoramic view of Kyoto.

The telescopes are available free of charge on the observation deck.