Exploring Kyoto: A Cultural and Historical Adventure with Friends

Imperial Grandeur and Vegan Delights

Today was a fascinating blend of history and culinary exploration in Kyoto Watazen Ryokan! After a restful night at Kyoto Watazen Ryokan, I was eager to immerse myself in the city's rich heritage and sample some of its renowned cuisine. Maximilian and I planned to explore historic sites, and sample vegan delights.


Discover the charm of Kyoto at Kyoto Watazen Ryokan, where traditional Japanese hospitality meets modern comforts in a prime location.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at The Cellar Kyoto. Nestled away from the main streets, this restaurant was a delightful find. The ambiance was intimate, with private rooms creating a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration. I savored a delicious traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with miso soup, grilled fish (a vegetarian option for me, of course!), and various small dishes. It was the perfect fuel for our adventures.


Discover culinary excellence at The Cellar Kyoto - where creative cuisine meets fine wine in a stylish setting.

Our first stop was Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle, built in the early 17th century, is a stunning example of Momoyama architecture. As we strolled through the sprawling grounds, I couldn't help but marvel at the intricate details of the buildings and the serene beauty of the gardens. The Ninomaru Palace, with its 'nightingale floors' that chirp with every step, was particularly impressive. Although the NAKED meets Nijo Castle 2025 Sakura event had ended a few days prior, there was still an aura of the cherry blossom season lingering in the air, with a few late bloomers adding splashes of pink to the landscape. Maximilian was fascinated by the history of the castle, particularly its role in the fall of the Tokugawa shogunate.


Explore Nijo Castle in Kyoto, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in the history and beauty of Japan's feudal era.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

Next on our itinerary was the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former residence of the Emperor of Japan until 1868. The palace is located in the Kyoto Imperial Park, a vast green space in the heart of the city. We wandered through the palace grounds, admiring the elegant architecture and the meticulously manicured gardens. Although we couldn't enter the buildings themselves, we were able to appreciate their grandeur from the outside. The Shishinden (Hall for State Ceremonies) was particularly striking, with its traditional Heian Period design. It was fascinating to imagine the emperors of Japan holding court in this very spot.


Explore the historical grandeur of Kyoto Imperial Palace, a stunning blend of architecture and nature in Japan's ancient capital.

After a morning of historical immersion, it was time for lunch. We headed to Masayoshi Japanese Dining, a restaurant known for its authentic Japanese cuisine. I opted for their vegetarian bento box, which was a delightful assortment of colorful and flavorful dishes. Maximilian enjoyed a selection of sushi, declaring it some of the freshest he had ever tasted. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming.


Experience authentic Japanese steakhouse dining at Masayoshi in Kyoto—where tradition meets culinary excellence.

In the afternoon, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy at Kyoto LOFT. This multi-story emporium is a treasure trove of contemporary Japanese lifestyle products, from innovative home goods to trendy stationery. I spent hours browsing the shelves, marveling at the ingenuity and attention to detail that characterizes Japanese design. I picked up a few souvenirs for Linnea, including a set of adorable animal-shaped erasers and a colorful origami kit. Maximilian, on the other hand, was drawn to the stationery section, where he stocked up on high-quality pens and notebooks.


Explore Kyoto LOFT: A vibrant general store with cosmetics, home goods, and unique novelties in the heart of Kyoto.

As evening approached, our thoughts turned to dinner. We had made a reservation at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO, a vegan restaurant known for its creative and delicious plant-based cuisine. Tucked away on a quiet backstreet, the restaurant had a charming and inviting atmosphere. I started with their signature heavenly vegan pancakes, which were light, fluffy, and topped with a generous dollop of soy ice cream and whipped cream. For my main course, I opted for the teriyaki soy chicken bowl, which was both flavorful and satisfying. Maximilian, who is not vegan, was equally impressed with his mushroom stew. The restaurant's commitment to using fresh, local ingredients was evident in every dish.


Discover exquisite vegan delights at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO – where culinary creativity meets sustainable living.

As we savored our meal, we reflected on the day's adventures. From the grandeur of Nijo Castle and the Kyoto Imperial Palace to the delightful flavors of Kyoto's vegan cuisine, it had been a day of cultural immersion and culinary exploration. I felt a deep appreciation for the city's rich history and its vibrant modern culture.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Philosopher's Path and Nanzen-ji Temple, immersing ourselves in the serene beauty of Kyoto's natural landscapes. We will also be stopping by the Kyoto Star Bar, for a relaxing evening after our long day.

As I prepare for another day of exploration, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of Kyoto. It is a city that truly captivates the senses and nourishes the soul. Good night from Kyoto!