Charming Kyoto: A Cultural Adventure with Friends

Whispers of Tradition in Kyoto

Today marked the beginning of our Kyoto adventure, and what a start it was! Leaving the familiar comfort of Toronto behind, I was eager to dive headfirst into the cultural richness that Kyoto promised. The city welcomed us with open arms, and I couldn't wait to explore its ancient temples, vibrant shrines, and bustling streets. The journey here with my friends was smooth, and the anticipation was palpable as we boarded the train from Osaka. I have to admit I forgot my universal power adapter, so I hope I can find one here.

Our first stop was the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine (Thousand Torii Gates), a place I had dreamt of visiting for years. From the moment we stepped onto the grounds, I felt transported to another world. The seemingly endless path of vibrant orange torii gates snaking up the mountainside was a sight to behold. It was absolutely breathtaking!


Explore the enchanting Fushimi Inari Shrine, home to thousands of vibrant torii gates, where tradition and breathtaking beauty await every visitor.

As we walked through the Senbon Torii, the thousands of vermilion gates, I was struck by the sense of history and spirituality that permeated the air. Each gate, donated by individuals and businesses, is inscribed with the donor's name and the date of the donation. It was fascinating to see the sheer number of them and to imagine the countless prayers and wishes that had been offered here over the centuries. I felt a sense of peace and tranquility as we made our way up the mountain, surrounded by the lush greenery and the rhythmic sound of our footsteps.

The journey through Fushimi Inari's torii gates is not just a walk, but a passage through time and tradition, a testament to enduring faith.

The hike to the summit was invigorating, and the views from the top were simply stunning. Looking out over the city of Kyoto, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a special place. We explored the smaller shrines and hidden corners along the way, each with its own unique charm and character. The statues of foxes, believed to be the messengers of Inari, added to the mystical atmosphere of the shrine. It's amazing to think this shrine dates back to the 8th century! The air was filled with the scent of incense and the soft murmur of prayers, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.

After descending from Fushimi Inari, we headed to Kiyomizu-dera, another of Kyoto's most famous temples. Perched on the hillside, the temple offered panoramic views of the city. The vibrant colors of the temple buildings against the backdrop of the surrounding hills were a feast for the eyes. The temple was established in 778, quite a long time ago, by Enchin Shonin who was directed to construct the temple next to the Otowa spring.


Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto, where culture and nature harmoniously blend.

The main hall, with its iconic wooden stage jutting out over the hillside, was a marvel of engineering. I learned that it was built without the use of any nails, which is truly incredible. The view from the stage was breathtaking, and I could see why it's such a popular spot for visitors. I made sure to take plenty of photos to capture the beauty of the moment. The temple is dedicated to Kannon, the Bodhisattva of Compassion and the Koyasu Pagoda, is associated with granting trouble-free childbirth for those who visit it. I said a prayer for my daughter Eglė, hoping for her continued happiness and success in life.

Beneath the main hall, we visited the Otowa Waterfall, where three streams of water cascade into a pond. Visitors can drink from the streams, each of which is said to have different benefits: one for longevity, one for academic success, and one for a good love life. I sampled all three, just to be on the safe side! The pure, refreshing water was a welcome treat after our explorations.

From Kiyomizu-dera, we strolled down Sannenzaka, a charming, stone-paved street lined with traditional shops and teahouses. The atmosphere was enchanting, and I felt like I had stepped back in time. The street was bustling with people, but it still managed to retain its old-world charm. The retro-style buildings and gas lamps created a memorable scene. I picked up a few souvenirs for my family back home, including some beautiful Kiyomizu-yaki pottery and some traditional sweets. I was careful not to fall, as the superstition says you'll die in three years if you do!


Discover Sannenzaka, a historic street in Kyoto, where traditional charm meets stunning views and delightful local cuisine.

For breakfast, we enjoyed a delightful meal at Kyoto cuisine Teramachi Yoshikura. The restaurant specializes in Japanese cuisine unique to Kyoto made with seasonal ingredients. The set meals made with fresh fish and local vegetables were delicious. I particularly enjoyed the Obanzai All-You-Can-Eat option, with a variety of dishes like pumpkin, taro root, and hijiki seaweed.


Discover authentic Kyoto cuisine at Teramachi Yoshikura – where traditional flavors meet modern creativity in an unforgettable dining experience.

Lunch was at Katsukura - Kyoto Porta, where we savored their famous tonkatsu. The pork cutlets were perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. What’s also unique is that you can blend your dipping sauce at the table. The restaurant's dedication to quality ingredients and meticulous preparation truly shone through in every bite. I enjoyed how hearty the miso soup was, especially on a cold night. The soup included an assortment of vegetables, such as sliced carrots, mushrooms, onions, lotus root, bamboo shoots, and seaweed. It was flavorful, light, and delicious, which complemented the rich tonkatsu.


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

For dinner, we indulged in a traditional Kaiseki experience at Yasakadori Enraku. Located behind the picturesque Kenninji Temple, Yasaka Street Enraku is a Japanese restaurant that boasts a calm atmosphere with all private rooms. The dishes were exquisite, with delicate dashi flavors and beautiful presentation. The staff's service was also impeccable, allowing for a truly heartwarming experience.


Experience the artistry of Kaiseki dining at Yasakadori Enraku in Kyoto – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

As the evening drew to a close, we decided to experience Kyoto's nightlife at L'Escamoteur, a unique bar known for its magical atmosphere and creative cocktails. I couldn't resist trying one of their signature concoctions, and I was not disappointed. The bartender was a true artist, crafting drinks with flair and precision. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, and I enjoyed chatting with fellow travelers from all over the world.


Discover L'Escamoteur, Kyoto's enchanting cocktail bar where artistry meets mixology in a whimsical atmosphere. Unforgettable drinks await!

Reflecting on the day, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the experiences I had. Kyoto had captivated me with its beauty, history, and spirituality. I am looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, and the Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama. I am traveling with friends, and it has been a great experience so far. The laughter and shared moments have made this trip even more special. I'm excited for what tomorrow holds, but for now, I'll cherish the memories of this incredible first day in Kyoto.

As I prepare for tomorrow's adventures, I can't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. Kyoto has already exceeded my expectations, and I know that there are many more wonders waiting to be discovered. I am so glad I came here with my friends. It makes it even more special.

Tomorrow we are planning to visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. I've heard so much about this place, and I am very excited to see it for myself. I can only imagine how beautiful it is to walk through a towering bamboo forest. I am also hoping to see some monkeys at the Arashiyama Monkey Park. It will be an experience I will never forget.