Charming Kyoto: A Cultural Adventure with Friends

Kyoto's Contrasts: Manga, Serenity, and Spring's Embrace

Today was a day of delightful contrasts, perfectly capturing the essence of Kyoto. From the vibrant world of manga to the tranquil beauty of ancient temples and the lively atmosphere of a park in full bloom, it was a sensory feast. I felt like I was experiencing the many layers of this captivating city, each more enchanting than the last.



Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hanasaki. The traditional Japanese breakfast set the tone for a day of cultural immersion. The delicate flavors and meticulous presentation were a gentle nudge into the day's adventures. It's funny, I never thought I'd enjoy fish for breakfast, but here I am, a convert!




Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Hanasaki in Kyoto - where tradition meets artistry in every delicious dish.

With our stomachs happily full, we ventured into the world of Japanese comics at the Kyoto International Manga Museum. Housed in a former school, the museum was a treasure trove for manga enthusiasts. While James isn't as into manga as I am, even he was impressed by the sheer volume of comics on display. I was in heaven, surrounded by shelves upon shelves of manga, some dating back decades. I even found a few translated versions and spent a happy hour reading in the outdoor area. Eglė, of course, was right at home here, excitedly pointing out her favorite series and characters. It was fascinating to see the history and evolution of this unique art form. I even considered getting a manga caricature, but the reservations were fully booked. Maybe next time!




Explore the rich world of manga at the Kyoto International Manga Museum, a cultural haven for enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

Sometimes, the most unexpected encounters lead to the most cherished memories.

Leaving the vibrant world of manga behind, we sought a bit of tranquility at Eikan-dō Temple, also known as Zenrinji Temple. The temple is renowned for its autumn colors, but even in spring, it possessed a serene beauty. The wooden corridors connecting the various halls were fascinating, and the gardens were meticulously manicured. The sideward-facing Amida Buddha statue was particularly striking, with its intriguing legend. Legend says that the statue turned its head to speak to the priest Eikan. We climbed the steep steps to the Tahoto Pagoda, rewarded with a panoramic view of Kyoto. It was a moment of peace and reflection amidst the bustling city.




Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Eikan-dō Temple, a must-visit Buddhist sanctuary in Kyoto, Japan, surrounded by stunning gardens.

Our final stop for the day was Maruyama Park. As expected, the park was teeming with people enjoying the cherry blossoms. The atmosphere was festive, with families picnicking under the trees and couples strolling hand-in-hand. The park’s centerpiece, the weeping cherry tree, was a sight to behold, its cascading branches laden with delicate pink blossoms. It was the perfect spot for people-watching and soaking in the beauty of spring. I managed to snap some great photos, capturing the essence of *hanami* (flower viewing).




Experience the natural beauty of Maruyama Park in Kyoto, a serene oasis filled with cherry blossoms and cultural heritage.

For lunch, we found a delightful spot called Sakuragawa. The Kaiseki meals incorporated the charm of the Japanese seasons and a spirit of hospitality. It was a refined experience that showcased the best of Kyoto's culinary traditions. The restaurant was near the picturesque Takase River, adding to the charm.




Discover authentic Kaiseki dining at Sakuragawa in Kyoto – where culinary artistry meets traditional Japanese flavors.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to treat ourselves to dinner at French Dining Top of Kyoto, located in the Rihga Royal Hotel. The restaurant is the only revolving French restaurant in Japan! The food was exquisite, but the real highlight was the panoramic view of the city. As the restaurant slowly rotated, we were treated to a 360-degree vista of Kyoto, sparkling in the evening light. The interior was also beautiful, adorned with hand-printed traditional Japanese paper.




Discover the exquisite flavors of French cuisine at French Dining Top of Kyoto – where culinary artistry meets stunning views.

After dinner, we decided to experience Kyoto's nightlife at Bar K6. It was a cozy and sophisticated spot, perfect for a nightcap. The bartender crafted some amazing cocktails, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. It was a great way to wind down after a full day of exploring.




Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Bar K6, where traditional Japanese drinks meet modern bar culture in a cozy setting.

Today was a whirlwind of experiences, each contributing to our growing love for Kyoto. It's amazing how this city manages to blend the modern and the traditional so seamlessly. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, when we'll be visiting Kodaiji Temple, Yasaka Shrine, and Gion Corner. I'm particularly excited about Gion Corner, as I'm hoping to catch a glimpse of geishas in their natural habitat. I'm also looking forward to exploring the Kyoto Crafts Store.



Before I turn in for the night, I wanted to share a little tidbit about my day. While at Maruyama Park, I overheard a group of locals discussing the upcoming Miyako Odori performances. Apparently, it's a renowned spring event featuring geiko and maiko from the Gion Kobu district. It sounds absolutely enchanting, and I'm tempted to try and get tickets if there are any left! Also, there are other events scheduled for April, such as the Yasurai Festival at Imamiya Shrine, which is held to pray for good health and prevention of illness. I'll try to check that out too.



Good night from Kyoto! Tomorrow promises to be another day filled with cultural discoveries and unforgettable experiences. I feel so fortunate to be sharing this adventure with James and Eglė. These are the moments we'll cherish for years to come. It really is a charming cultural adventure with friends!