Charming Kyoto: A Cultural Adventure with Friends

A Day in Gion: Where Tradition Lives
Today was a sensory feast, a deep dive into the heart of Kyoto's Gion district. From the elusive geishas to the tranquil temples and the unforgettable culinary experiences, every moment felt like stepping into a living painting. I'm so excited to share the details of my day with you all!

My day began with a whimsical breakfast at Alice On Wednesday. Finding it was half the fun, tucked away as it was. It's a quirky little place themed after Alice in Wonderland, and it really set the tone for a day of exploration and discovery. The decor was just as enchanting as the pastries, and it was the perfect spot to fuel up before diving into the day's adventures.


Discover whimsical fashion accessories and delectable desserts at Alice On Wednesday in Osaka's lively Nishishinsaibashi district.

After breakfast, I strolled along to Hanamikoji Street, Gion's most famous lane. It's a beautifully preserved street, free of overhead electric lines, which really adds to its historic charm. In the early afternoon, it was relatively quiet, but I could already feel the anticipation of the evening, when the street comes alive with geishas and maikos hurrying to their appointments. Even though recent regulations have been put in place to protect the privacy of the Geishas, I was hoping to catch a glimpse of them later in the day.


Explore Hanamikoji Street, Kyoto's iconic alleyway steeped in tradition and culture, where history meets the beauty of Japanese artistry.

I popped into Kazari Nishiki, a shop in Nishiki Market offering seasonal goods and clothing with a Kyoto touch. The owner changes the store's look each month, highlighting the Kyoto seasons. It was lovely browsing the crafts and getting some style inspiration. I picked up a beautiful silk scarf as a memento of my trip. I love supporting local artisans and taking home something that truly represents the culture I'm experiencing. I think James would really appreciate this scarf; he loves silk.


Discover the artistry of Kyoto at Kazari Nishiki, your ultimate destination for authentic Japanese souvenirs and traditional crafts.

Next, I sought refuge from the bustling city at Kenninji Temple, Kyoto's oldest Zen temple. Founded in 1202, it offered a serene contrast to the lively streets of Gion. The Zen gardens were immaculate, and I spent a peaceful hour wandering the grounds, contemplating the simple beauty of the surroundings. The twin dragons painted on the ceiling of the Hodo Hall were breathtaking, a true testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the time.


Explore the tranquility of Kenninji Temple, one of Kyoto's oldest Zen temples, featuring stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.

The quiet contemplation amidst the ancient gardens of Kenninji Temple was a powerful reminder of the beauty in simplicity and the importance of finding stillness in a bustling world.

For lunch, I indulged in a traditional Kaiseki meal at Chihana. This restaurant has been awarded Michelin stars for nine consecutive years, and it's easy to see why. Each dish was a work of art, a delicate balance of flavors and textures that showcased the best of Kyoto cuisine. The presentation was exquisite, and the service impeccable. It was a truly special dining experience, one that I won't soon forget.


Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Chihana in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district - where tradition meets culinary artistry.

In the evening, I decided to try my luck at spotting a geisha or maiko on Hanamikoji Street again. The street was much more crowded now, with tourists and locals alike hoping for a glimpse of these elusive figures. While I didn't manage to get a close-up photo, I did see a few geishas hurrying to their appointments. It was a magical moment, a fleeting glimpse into a world of tradition and artistry that has captivated people for centuries. I was glad I respected the rules that are now in place for tourists and didn't try to get too close.

Finally, for dinner, I treated myself to tonkatsu at Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store. This restaurant is known for its high-quality pork cutlets and homemade sauce. The entrance is hidden down a narrow alley, adding to the charm of the place. The tonkatsu was crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, and the sauce was the perfect complement. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Kyoto's culinary delights.


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

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Kyoto. Gion is a truly special place, a living testament to the traditions and artistry of Japan. I'm so glad I had the chance to explore its streets, gardens, and restaurants, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.


Explore Gion, Kyoto's iconic geisha district, where tradition meets charm in a captivating blend of culture and history.

Tomorrow, I am planning to visit the Kyoto International Manga Museum. Eglė would love this, I know it! I will also visit the Eikan-dō Temple and Maruyama Park. I think I will end the day with a drink at Bar K6.

I'm also thinking about how different this trip would be if James and Eglė were here with me. I miss them terribly, but I know they're cheering me on from home. Maybe next time, we can all come together and experience the magic of Kyoto as a family.

Until then, stay tuned for more updates from my Kyoto adventure!

P.S. I'm still kicking myself for forgetting my universal power adapter! It's definitely making it more challenging to keep my devices charged. And a travel umbrella would have been handy today too, as there was a brief shower in the afternoon.

P.P.S. I heard that the Miyako Odori geisha dances are happening this month. It is performed by the girls of the main Gion geisha district. I heard that the venue this year is up at the Kyoto University of Art and Design. I will check this out if I have a chance.