Charming Kyoto: A Cultural Adventure with Friends

A Day of Reflections

As my Kyoto adventure with friends draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we've shared. Today was a day of spiritual exploration, a fitting farewell to this enchanting city that has captured our hearts. We immersed ourselves in the serene beauty of ancient temples and the vibrant energy of sacred shrines, creating memories that I know we'll cherish for a lifetime. It's hard to believe our trip is ending, but I'm grateful for every moment spent in this magical place.

Our final day in Kyoto began with a hearty breakfast at Khaos Spice Diner. I was eager to try their famous curry rice. The diner was a cozy spot, filled with the aroma of spices that instantly awakened my senses. I opted for a plate with all three curries on offer. The Khaos pork keema was definitely a standout, with its rich, umami-packed depth that only Japanese dashi can provide. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of temple and shrine visits.


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

Our first stop was Fushimi Inari Taisha. Having heard so much about the thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the mountain, I was eager to experience it firsthand. As we approached the entrance, the sight of the seemingly endless path of gates was breathtaking. Each gate, donated by individuals and businesses, is inscribed with their names and the date of the donation. The vibrant color against the lush green forest created a surreal atmosphere. We began our ascent, the path leading us through a tunnel of vibrant red. The further we climbed, the fewer people we encountered, allowing us to truly appreciate the tranquility of the surroundings. Along the way, we encountered numerous fox statues, messengers of the deity Inari, each with its own unique expression and adornments. It was fascinating to learn about the history and significance of this sacred mountain. I can see why Fushimi Inari is considered one of Kyoto's emblems; it's a truly awe-inspiring place.


Explore the enchanting Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto's iconic Shinto shrine famous for its thousands of vibrant torii gates and breathtaking mountain trails.

         

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its temples and shrines, but in the way it stirs the soul and connects us to something greater than ourselves.

Next on our itinerary was Tōfuku-ji Temple, a Zen sanctuary renowned for its autumn colors. Though we were visiting in spring, the temple's serene beauty was undeniable. Founded in 1236, Tōfuku-ji is one of Kyoto's Five Great Zen Temples, and it's easy to see why. We strolled through the meticulously designed gardens, admiring the perfectly raked gravel and the carefully placed stones. The Tsutenkyo Bridge offered a stunning view of the valley below, a scene of tranquility and natural beauty. The temple's traditional wooden halls exuded history, and I felt a sense of peace wash over me as we explored the grounds. It was a perfect spot for quiet reflection, a moment to appreciate the harmony between nature and architecture.


Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Tōfuku-ji Temple, a must-visit Buddhist landmark in Kyoto.

Our final shrine visit of the day was to Yasui Kompiragū Shrine, known for its power to sever bad relationships and foster good ones. This quirky shrine in the Gion district was quite different from the serene temples we had visited earlier. Here, the atmosphere was charged with a sense of hope and determination. The enkiri or enmusubi stone, a large ema-shaped rock covered in paper amulets, was the focal point. We watched as people wrote their wishes on the amulets, crawled through the hole in the stone, and then back again, before pinning their amulets to the rock. The sheer number of amulets covering the stone was a testament to the shrine's popularity and the power of its intentions. While I didn't participate in the ritual myself, I couldn't help but feel moved by the energy and hope that permeated the air. I thought about my own relationships, both past and present, and the importance of letting go of negativity and embracing positive connections.


Experience the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Yasui Kompiragū Shrine in Kyoto, a must-visit destination for travelers seeking tranquility.

For lunch, we headed to Ajikyu, a tiny izakaya tucked away in a quiet residential street. This place was a true hidden gem, the kind of establishment that feels like a home away from home. The atmosphere was lively and intimate, and we were immediately welcomed by the unimpeachable matriarch who presides over the restaurant. We followed her recommendations, starting with a plate of sashimi chū-toro and ika, both incredibly fresh and flavorful. The grilled buri, salted the previous day and cooked to perfection, was another highlight. Ajikyu's menu is fish-heavy, but the chef also shows versatility with vegetables. The dengaku nasu, eggplant smeared in red and white miso, was deliciously simple. It was the perfect place to relax and savor authentic Japanese flavors.


Discover authentic Japanese dining at Ajikyu in Kyoto—where tradition meets exquisite culinary artistry.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to treat ourselves to a final Kyoto experience at Kyoto Star Bar. This bar is known for its sophisticated atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails. The interior was stylish and inviting, with a warm and welcoming ambiance. The bartenders were passionate about their craft, and we enjoyed watching them meticulously prepare each drink. I opted for one of their signature cocktails, a unique blend of local ingredients that perfectly captured the essence of Kyoto. The bar was a perfect setting for lively conversation and reflection on our incredible journey. The Mozart music added to the serene atmosphere, and it was a great way to end our day. I learned that the owner practices tea ceremony and that they offer a unique shaved ice experience in the afternoon, which is something I would love to try next time I am in Kyoto.


Discover the perfect blend of cocktails and coffee at Kyoto Star Bar, a stylish retreat in the heart of Kyoto's vibrant nightlife.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of sadness that our trip is coming to an end. But I also feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the experiences we've shared and the memories we've created. Kyoto has captured my heart, and I know I'll be back someday to explore more of its hidden gems.

Tomorrow, we head to the airport to begin our journey back to Toronto. I am looking forward to seeing James and Eglė, and sharing my stories. I know Eglė will be especially interested in the Yasui Kompiragū Shrine. I am already planning our next family trip. Perhaps we will visit Ireland, James' homeland, next time.

Until then, farewell, Kyoto. Thank you for the memories, the beauty, and the spiritual awakening.