Exploring Kyoto: A Cultural and Historical Adventure with Friends

Kyoto's Mystical Embrace

Today marked the beginning of our Kyoto adventure, and what a start it was! The city welcomed us with open arms, a gentle breeze carrying the scent of cherry blossoms, and a palpable sense of history woven into every street. I couldn't wait to dive into the cultural heart of Japan, especially with my friends by my side. It felt like stepping into a painting, one that I was eager to explore brushstroke by brushstroke.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Kizahashi, nestled within The Thousand Kyoto hotel. The open kitchen concept was fascinating, allowing us to watch the chefs meticulously prepare each dish. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast, a colorful array of small dishes that included grilled fish, miso soup, and perfectly steamed rice. It was a delightful way to fuel up for the day's adventures. Maximilian would have loved the meticulous preparation that goes into each dish here. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of the dishes back in Heidelberg; Linnea would adore the Tamagoyaki, I'm sure!


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Kizahashi in Kyoto, where seasonal ingredients meet traditional artistry in every dish.

Our first stop was the breathtaking Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding up the mountainside. The sheer scale of the shrine was awe-inspiring. Each gate, donated by individuals and businesses, is a testament to their devotion to Inari, the god of rice, prosperity, and business. As we walked through the seemingly endless tunnel of vermillion, I felt a sense of tranquility wash over me. The sunlight filtering through the gates created an ethereal glow, making the experience even more magical. My friends and I took countless photos, trying to capture the essence of this spiritual place.


Explore the mystical Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant torii gates and rich cultural heritage in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.

The journey through the thousand torii gates of Fushimi Inari is not just a walk, but a passage through time and tradition, connecting the earthly realm with the divine.

The climb to the top of Mount Inari was challenging but rewarding. Along the way, we encountered numerous smaller shrines, each with its own unique charm. We also spotted several fox statues, believed to be the messengers of Inari. The views from the higher points were simply stunning, offering panoramic vistas of Kyoto sprawling below. It was fascinating to learn that Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head shrine of approximately 30,000 Inari shrines throughout Japan, frequented by people of all ages seeking blessings for bountiful harvests, business prosperity, and family safety. The shrine's history dates back to 711 AD, and it has been a place of worship for over 1300 years. It's truly a special place where tradition and spirituality intertwine.

After descending from Mount Inari, we were ready for a delicious lunch. We headed to Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store, a restaurant renowned for its exceptional tonkatsu. Finding the restaurant was an adventure in itself, as it was tucked away in a small alley off Sanjo Street. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere. I ordered the signature tonkatsu set, which came with a generous portion of perfectly breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet, along with rice, miso soup, and pickled vegetables. The tonkatsu was incredibly tender and flavorful, and the crispy breading added a delightful crunch. Grinding my own sesame seeds to mix into the tonkatsu dipping sauce was a fun, interactive experience. It was a truly satisfying meal that left us feeling energized for the rest of the day.


Savor the best tonkatsu in Kyoto at Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store—where tradition meets flavor.

Next on our itinerary was Kiyomizu-dera, another iconic Kyoto landmark. The temple is perched on a hillside, offering breathtaking views of the city. As we approached the temple, we passed through charming streets lined with shops selling traditional crafts and souvenirs. It was tempting to stop at every store, but we were determined to reach the temple before sunset.


Discover the historical beauty of Kiyomizu-dera, a stunning Buddhist temple offering breathtaking views and serene surroundings in the heart of Kyoto.

Kiyomizu-dera is known for its massive main hall and the wooden stage that juts out over the hillside. The stage is supported by tall pillars and offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The architecture is truly remarkable, especially considering that the structure was assembled without the use of any nails. We took our time to admire the intricate details of the temple and soak in the stunning scenery. The vibrant colors of the temple against the backdrop of the setting sun created a picture-perfect moment. It was interesting to learn that Kiyomizu-dera was established in 778 and that many of the present buildings were constructed in 1633. The temple is also home to a famous statue of Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion, which is considered a national treasure.

Beneath the main hall is the Otowa Waterfall, where three channels of water fall into a pond. Visitors can drink the water, which is believed to have wish-granting powers. We each took a sip, hoping for good fortune. I wished for continued health and happiness for my family and friends.

Before dinner, we decided to indulge in a bit of shopping at Noren by Corazon. This boutique gift shop offered a unique selection of contemporary and beautifully designed souvenirs. I was immediately drawn to the colorful and whimsical designs, which were a refreshing departure from the usual tourist fare. I purchased a few small gifts for Linnea and Maximilian, as well as a beautiful furoshiki (traditional wrapping cloth) for myself. The shop's atmosphere was charming, with fragrant hinoki shelves and illuminated paper lanterns. It was fascinating to learn that the shop's products are designed by Keisuke Unosawa, an award-winning designer who has worked with MoMA and Veuve Clicquot. I think even Maximilian would have enjoyed browsing the items here!


Explore Noren by Corazon in Kyoto for unique souvenirs that reflect the city's rich culture and craftsmanship.

For our first dinner in Kyoto, we chose Gion Nanba, a Michelin-starred kappo restaurant known for its seasonal flavors and traditional Kyoto cuisine. The restaurant was tucked away in a quiet alley in Gion, adding to its intimate and exclusive ambiance. The interior was cozy and elegant, with a small counter and a few private dining rooms. We opted for the counter seats, which allowed us to watch the chef meticulously prepare each dish.


Discover authentic kaiseki cuisine at Gion Nanba, where tradition meets taste in Kyoto's historic Gion district.

The meal was a culinary journey, with each course showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients and the chef's impeccable technique. We savored a variety of dishes, from delicate sashimi to flavorful grilled fish to perfectly cooked vegetables. The chef took great care to explain each dish, highlighting the ingredients and the preparation methods. The service was attentive and personalized, making us feel like honored guests. Gion Nanba is definitely a place I'd recommend for a special occasion, or for anyone wanting a true taste of Kyoto cuisine.

As we strolled back to Kyoto Watazen Ryokan, the city was bathed in the soft glow of lanterns. The air was crisp and cool, and the sounds of the city had quieted down. I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Kyoto had already captured my heart with its beauty, history, and culture.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Tenryu-ji Temple, and the Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama. I'm also looking forward to trying Goichi Pizza for breakfast, Yasakadori Enraku for lunch, and Teppan Tavern Tenamonya for dinner. And perhaps we'll find some time to relax at L'Escamoteur, a local bar. I can already tell that this trip will be filled with unforgettable memories.

And as I settle into the cozy embrace of our Ryokan, I realize that I did forget to pack an umbrella and a portable phone charger. A mental note to buy those tomorrow!

I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!