Exploring Kyoto: A Cultural and Historical Adventure with Friends

Whispers of Ancient Kyoto

Today was a day for wandering, for letting the past seep into my present. I found myself transported through time as I explored ancient temples and strolled along streets that whispered stories of old Japan. The air was filled with the scent of cherry blossoms and the echoes of history, creating an immersive experience that I'll treasure forever. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to connect with different cultures, and to lose myself in the beauty of the world.

The day began with a delightful breakfast at Khaos Spice Diner. It's quite the quirky place, tucked away in what felt like a secret corner of the city. The interior was a vibrant mix of film posters and reggae music, not what I expected in Kyoto, but it added to the charm. I opted for their signature curry, a flavorful blend of Indian spices and Japanese dashi. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. Maximilian would have loved this place, his love for spicy food would have found a kindred spirit here.


Discover authentic Japanese curry at Khaos Spice Diner in Kyoto – a flavorful experience awaits you!

From there, I made my way to Kodaiji Temple. The temple, established in 1606 by Nene in memory of her late husband Toyotomi Hideyoshi, exuded a sense of tranquility and timeless love. As I wandered through the gardens, I couldn't help but reflect on the deep bond between Nene and Hideyoshi. The delicate cherry blossoms framed the historic structures, creating a scene of serene beauty. The Main Hall, reconstructed in 1912, showcased stunning interiors with lacquer and gold leaf, a testament to the opulence of the Momoyama culture. I found myself particularly drawn to the Spirit Hall, which houses a statue of Hideyoshi, and the charming tea house, Iho-an, a space designed by the renowned tea master Sen no Rikyu. The special spring exhibition added another layer of depth to the experience.


Explore Kodaiji Temple in Kyoto, a serene Buddhist temple known for its stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage, perfect for a tranquil getaway.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its stunning landscapes, but in the stories etched into every stone and whispered by every breeze.

Kodaiji Temple was originally covered in gold leaf, but a fire destroyed it in 1912. It is a testament to enduring love, much like Maximilian and me. I remember when we first met during my study abroad program, and how quickly we fell in love. It feels like a lifetime ago, and yet, our bond grows stronger each day. Seeing Kodaiji, a temple born of love and remembrance, resonated deeply with me.

Leaving the temple, I ventured towards Sannenzaka, a beautifully preserved, stone-paved pedestrian road lined with traditional buildings and shops. The atmosphere was enchanting, like stepping back in time. Sannenzaka, also known as Sannei-zaka or Three-Year Slope, has various theories regarding its name's origin. One popular legend from the Edo period warns that if you stumble on this slope, you'll die within three years. But don't worry—there's a charm to counter this! It's said that buying a gourd at the base of the slope will protect you from this fate. The road is filled with around 60 shops and restaurants that sell traditional products and food from Kyoto, offering visitors a hands-on experience of Japanese culture, including tea ceremonies, as well as Maiko and Geisha makeovers. I strolled along, peeking into shops selling traditional crafts, pottery, and sweets. The aroma of incense and freshly brewed tea filled the air, adding to the sensory experience. I couldn't resist trying some local pastries and green tea ice cream – a perfect treat for a warm afternoon.


Discover the enchanting Sannenzaka in Kyoto, where ancient history meets vibrant culture amidst stunning architecture and scenic beauty.

I found myself particularly drawn to a small pottery shop, where I purchased a delicate tea set. It reminded me of the traditional Swedish Fika we often enjoy at home, and I imagined serving tea to my family in these beautiful cups, sharing stories of my adventures in Kyoto. Linnea would adore these, I thought, picturing her little hands carefully holding a tiny teacup.

For lunch, I chose Katsukura - Kyoto Porta, a restaurant known for its exquisite tonkatsu. Located within Kyoto Station, it was a convenient stop after my morning explorations. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, a testament to its popularity. I ordered the classic tonkatsu set, which came with unlimited cabbage, rice, and miso soup. The tonkatsu was perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the miso soup was hearty and flavorful. It was the ideal comfort food after a long morning of walking. I especially enjoyed grinding my own sesame seeds to make the tonkatsu dipping sauce, adding a personal touch to the meal.


Discover authentic Tonkatsu at Katsukura - a must-visit Japanese restaurant in Kyoto offering delightful flavors in a modern setting.

In the afternoon, I decided to explore the Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade, a bustling covered street filled with a variety of shops and local businesses. It was a vibrant contrast to the serene temples and historic streets I had visited earlier in the day. The arcade offered a glimpse into the daily life of Kyoto residents, with locals shopping for groceries, clothing, and household goods. I enjoyed browsing through the various shops, admiring the colorful displays of merchandise. I even found a small, beautifully crafted wooden toy for Linnea, a traditional Japanese spinning top that I knew she would love.


Discover the heart of Kyoto at Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade, where traditional charm meets modern shopping and dining.

As evening approached, I made my way to THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO for dinner. The restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored traditional Japanese building, once the private residence of a renowned Japanese painter. The atmosphere was elegant and refined, with a touch of old-world charm. I opted for the vegan set menu, which showcased seasonal ingredients from Kyoto. Each dish was a work of art, meticulously prepared and beautifully presented. The flavors were delicate and nuanced, a testament to the chef's skill and creativity. The service was impeccable, and I felt pampered and well-cared for throughout the meal.


Discover the perfect blend of Italian culinary artistry and traditional Japanese ambiance at The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto.

The restaurant is located near Yasaka Pagoda, a landmark sign of the Higashiyama district. It was a wonderful experience, a perfect ending to a day filled with cultural immersion and historical exploration. The garden was exquisite, and the setting sun cast long shadows across the meticulously raked gravel.

As I reflect on today's journey, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and history of Kyoto. Each temple, each street, each meal has added another layer to my understanding of this fascinating city. And as I prepare for tomorrow's adventures – a visit to the Kyoto Botanical Gardens and the Shugakuin Imperial Villa – I know that the wonders of Kyoto will continue to unfold.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Kyoto Botanical Gardens and Shugakuin Imperial Villa. I'm looking forward to immersing myself in the natural beauty of Kyoto and learning more about its imperial history. Perhaps I'll even find a quiet spot to sketch, capturing the essence of Kyoto's landscapes on paper. And in the evening, I'll treat myself to a cocktail at Bar K6, a highly-regarded spot known for its expertly crafted drinks.

Tonight, however, I'll drift off to sleep with the echoes of ancient Kyoto in my ears, dreaming of cherry blossoms and the timeless beauty of Japan. It’s hard not to feel completely content with a day like today.

Until tomorrow,
Astrid