Solo Adventure Through Kyoto's Cultural Marvels

Echoes of Emperors

Today was a day steeped in history and beauty, a journey through Kyoto's imperial past and a celebration of its culinary present. From the serene gardens to the majestic palaces and the exquisite flavors of Kyoto's cuisine, every moment was a sensory delight. It's days like these that remind me why I traded my Berlin apartment for a life of exploration, trading lines of code for lines of sight.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki & Teppan-yaki Kamehameha. The name itself is a mouthful, but the food was even more so! I opted for the set meal, eager to dive into the crispy-edged, soft-centered okonomiyaki. The friendly staff, who spoke fluent English, made me feel right at home, and watching them prepare my food with such passion and skill was a treat in itself. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of imperial exploration.


Discover authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Kamehameha, Kyoto's premier destination for delicious Japanese cuisine.

First on the itinerary was the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former residence of Japan's Imperial Family until 1868. The palace has served as the residence of Japan's emperors and as a place to conduct political affairs. I wandered through the sprawling grounds, marveling at the elegant architecture and imagining the emperors, empresses, princes and concubines who once walked these very paths. The palace, rebuilt in 1855, has opened its doors to the public, allowing visitors to see the palace buildings and gardens.


Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Kyoto Imperial Palace, a royal landmark surrounded by stunning gardens and traditional architecture.

The main garden, called Pond Garden, has a spacious pond dominating the center. There is also the Inner Garden, where variously styled stone lanterns presented by some prominent feudal lords can be seen. Though the capital may have moved to Tokyo, the Kyoto Imperial Palace still stands as a testament to Japan's rich history and cultural heritage.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet corners of history, where the echoes of the past resonate with the present.

Adjacent to the palace lies the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a vast and beautiful park that was once the exclusive domain of the imperial court. Now, it's a place for locals and tourists alike to relax and enjoy nature. I strolled through the garden, taking in the serene atmosphere and admiring the meticulously manicured landscapes. The plum blossom season at Kyoto Gyoen National Garden is from mid-January to mid-March. The garden is a lush green island floating in the sea of the city.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a serene national park perfect for leisurely walks and cultural exploration amidst stunning landscapes.

The Kyoto Gyoen National Garden is not just a tourist attraction but also a place for the locals to spend a relaxing weekend. There are more than 500 species of plants, including colonies of Kansai dandelions in the grasslands. The garden also contains more than 50,000 trees. I found myself lost in thought as I wandered through the winding paths, a welcome respite from the bustling city.

My historical journey continued at Nijo Castle, built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period. The castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its historical significance and exquisite architecture. I entered the castle grounds through a large gate in the east. Venturing further into the castle brought me to the Chinese-style Karamon Gate, the entrance to the Ninomaru (secondary circle of defense), where the castle's main attraction, the Ninomaru Palace, is located.


Explore the grandeur of Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, showcasing the beauty of feudal Japan's architecture and gardens.

The Ninomaru Palace served as the residence and office of the shogun during his visits to Kyoto. Surviving in its original form, the palace consists of multiple separate buildings that are connected with each other by corridors with so-called nightingale floors, as they squeak when stepped upon as a security measure against intruders. The palace rooms are tatami mat covered and feature decorated ceilings and beautifully painted sliding doors (fusuma). The Ninomaru Palace exemplifies the shoin-zukuri architectural style from the early Edo period.

Many parts of Nijo use shinden-zukuri and sharawagi, making them considered traditional Japanese architecture. I wandered through the waiting and audience rooms, imagining the shogun holding court and receiving visitors. It was in these very rooms where multiple significant incidents that changed the course of Japan's future occurred. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and reverence for the history that unfolded within these walls.

As evening approached, it was time for another culinary adventure. I had made a reservation at Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store for lunch. The restaurant is known for its healthy and quality tonkatsu. I opted for the pork loin cutlet set meal. The tonkatsu was crisply-fried and juicy, and the sauce was a perfect complement. The dressing for the shredded cabbage added as a relish was also excellent.


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

Katsukura's tonkatsu is a cut above many places: the pork is excellent, and the sauce is homemade. They offer free refills of shredded cabbage, soup, pickles, and tea. I also ground some sesame seeds to a paste in the mortar and pestle provided. Then, stir in your sauce(s) of choice and adjust this dipping sauce to your liking. I even added some mustard. It was a truly satisfying and memorable meal.

With a full stomach and a mind full of historical insights, I decided to cap off the day with a visit to Bar K6. Tucked away in the lively Nakagyo Ward of Kyoto, Bar K6 perfectly captures the essence of metropolitan sophistication with its exquisite cocktails and lively vibe. This upscale modern bar has one of the city's most pre-eminent spirit selections, featuring an impressive 1,200 bottle-strong collection including 600 expressions of single malts, with some extremely rare bottles.


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

I savored each sip of my expertly crafted cocktail, reflecting on the day's adventures. The bar had a unique idea of Scottish fare as well, with creations including a haggis pizza. It was the perfect way to unwind and soak in the atmosphere of Kyoto's vibrant nightlife. As I sat there, nursing my drink, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this incredible city. It's a far cry from my usual haunts in Berlin, but I'm finding that I'm quite fond of trading techno beats for the gentle strumming of a koto.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of Kyoto's spiritual side with visits to Heian Shrine and Nanzen-ji Temple, followed by a contemplative walk along the Philosopher's Path. But for now, I'll rest my weary feet and dream of emperors, gardens, and tonkatsu.

Before heading back to Hotel ALZA KYOTO, I took a moment to appreciate the crisp night air and the twinkling lights of the city. Kyoto, you've captivated me once again. Good night, and until tomorrow!


Experience the perfect blend of comfort and culture at Hotel ALZA KYOTO, ideally located near Kyoto's must-see attractions and vibrant neighborhoods.