Solo Cultural Journey Through Kyoto

A Journey Through Time

Kyoto, with its serene temples and historic streets, has a way of transporting you to another era. Today was one of those days where I felt completely immersed in the city's rich history and vibrant culture. From the moment I stepped out of Gion Misen Furumonzen, I knew I was in for a day of exploration and discovery.


Discover Gion Misen Furumonzen, a charming hotel in Kyoto offering comfort and convenience near Yasaka Shrine and Maruyama Park for all travelers.
The crisp February air nipped at my cheeks as I set off towards Kiyomizu-dera, one of Kyoto's most celebrated temples. The sky was a brilliant blue, promising a day filled with sunshine and adventure. As I walked, I couldn't help but reflect on how different this journey was from my usual travels with Maximilian and Astrid. While I missed their company, there was a unique sense of freedom in exploring Kyoto at my own pace.

Kiyomizu-dera: A Temple of Pure Water

The approach to Kiyomizu-dera was an experience in itself. The streets leading up to the temple were lined with shops selling everything from traditional crafts to local snacks. The energy was palpable, with tourists and locals alike making their way towards the iconic temple.

As I finally reached the entrance of Kiyomizu-dera, I was immediately struck by its grandeur. Founded in 780 on the site of the Otowa Waterfall in the hills east of Kyoto, the temple’s name, meaning “Pure Water Temple,” is derived from the fall's waters. The temple has a rich history, originally associated with the Hosso sect, one of the oldest schools within Japanese Buddhism, before forming its own Kita Hosso sect in 1965. In 1994, it was added to the list of World Heritage Sites.

The main hall, a National Treasure, stands proudly with its wooden stage jutting out 13 meters above the hillside. The panoramic view of Kyoto from the stage was breathtaking, even in the winter. I could see the city stretching out before me, a mix of traditional buildings and modern structures, all framed by the surrounding hills. It was easy to imagine how this view would transform in spring when the cherry blossoms would paint the landscape in hues of pink and white.

Inside the main hall, I paid my respects to the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon, the primary object of worship. The temple is known as a Kannon Reijo, a holy place abundant with the Kannon's compassion. Standing there, I felt a sense of peace and gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a special place.

Worshiping Kannon means taking a hard look at your true self, finding compassion in your everyday deeds.

Behind the main hall, I visited Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking. I watched as visitors, mostly young couples, tried their luck at the “love stones,” attempting to walk between them with their eyes closed. A successful journey between the stones is said to bring good fortune in love.

Before leaving Kiyomizu-dera, I made my way to the Otowa Waterfall, located at the base of the main hall. The waterfall’s waters are divided into three separate streams, and visitors use cups attached to long poles to drink from them. Each stream is said to have a different benefit: longevity, success at school, and a fortunate love life. I chose the stream for longevity, hoping for many more years of travel and adventure.


Discover the serene beauty of Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto, blending stunning architecture with breathtaking natural landscapes.

Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka: Stepping Back in Time

Leaving Kiyomizu-dera, I descended into the charming streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka. These historic pedestrian alleys are lined with traditional wooden storefronts, teahouses, cafes, and shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. The atmosphere was enchanting, like stepping back into old Kyoto.


Explore Sannenzaka, a historic street in Kyoto, where traditional charm meets stunning views of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perfect for an unforgettable cultural experience.

Explore Ninenzaka, a historic street in Kyoto filled with traditional shops, tea houses, and stunning architecture that brings the past to life.
Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, translating to “Three-Year Hill” and “Two-Year Hill,” date back to the early beginnings of Kyoto's imperial history. The streets have been beautifully restored, offering a glimpse into the neighborhood's former way of life. As I strolled along the cobbled lanes, I admired the traditional wooden architecture and the meticulous attention to detail in every shop and teahouse.

According to legend, if you slip and fall on either of these streets, you will die within two or three years. I made sure to watch my step, not wanting to test the validity of the myth! The streets were bustling with activity, yet there was a sense of tranquility that pervaded the air.

I stopped at several shops, admiring the intricate crafts and souvenirs. I found a beautiful set of chopsticks for Maximilian and a small, hand-painted fan for Astrid. I also indulged in some local sweets, savoring the delicate flavors and textures.

One of the highlights of my walk was discovering the former residence of Yumeji Takehisa, a famous Japanese painter and poet. The house has been preserved as a museum, offering a glimpse into the life and work of this celebrated artist.

As I continued my walk, I noticed many people dressed in traditional kimonos, adding to the timeless charm of the streets. I even considered renting one myself, but decided to save that experience for another day when Maximilian and Astrid could join me.

A Culinary Journey: From Tempura to Kobe Beef

My day in Kyoto was not just about exploring historical sites; it was also a culinary adventure. I started my day with breakfast at Komefuku, a restaurant known for its delicious tempura. The tempura was light and crispy, fried in rice-bran oil, and the perfect way to fuel up for a day of sightseeing.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Komefuku in Kyoto, renowned for its fresh seafood and exquisite tempura dishes.
For lunch, I ventured to Gion Mikaku, a restaurant that specializes in Tajima beef. Founded in 1929, Gion Mikaku has a long-standing reputation for serving only the highest quality beef. I opted for a teppanyaki steak, cooked right in front of me by a skilled chef. The beef was tender and flavorful, and the experience was truly memorable. The restaurant has a view of the Gion Shirakawa river with seasonal ambience.


Discover Gion Mikaku, where exceptional steak meets authentic Japanese culture in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district.
In the evening, I decided to treat myself to a truly special dinner at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION. This restaurant is the first branch of the famous Kobe-based Mouriya, known for serving Kobe wagyu beef for over 130 years. The restaurant uses A5-grade wagyu Kobe beef and cattle that closely follow the bloodline of Hyogo Prefecture-raised wagyu Tajima Beef.


Experience unparalleled flavors at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION in Kyoto - a must-visit for steak lovers seeking authenticity.
The elegant Mouriya Gion Building is located a short walk from Gion Shijo Station. I was seated at a counter facing the teppan hotplate, where I could watch the chef expertly grill the meat and vegetables. I chose the Kobe sirloin steak, and it was cooked to perfection. The meat was tender, juicy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. It was truly a culinary experience that I will never forget. The service and the restaurant interior were also of the finest quality.

Shopping and Sipping: Exploring Kyoto's Hidden Gems

In between my temple visits and culinary delights, I also took some time to explore Kyoto's unique shops and bars. I visited mumokuteki goods & wears Kyoto, a store that offers a variety of goods from local businesses. I found some unique souvenirs and gifts to take home, including some vegan chocolates and cookies.


Explore mumokuteki Goods & Wears in Kyoto for unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the essence of Japanese culture.
As the day drew to a close, I decided to relax with a drink at Bar Fishbowl. Located on the 7th floor of the Empire Building, this western-style bar offers a wide selection of Japanese whiskeys and craft beers. The cocktails are creative, and the atmosphere is trendy and modern. It was the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring.


Discover Kyoto's nightlife at Bar Fishbowl, a cocktail haven with stunning views and expertly crafted drinks in the heart of the city.

Reflections and Tomorrow's Adventures

As I walked back to Gion Misen Furumonzen, I reflected on the day's adventures. Kyoto had captivated me with its blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a special place.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Gion district, visit Yasaka Shrine, and wander through Maruyama Park. I'm also looking forward to trying new restaurants and bars, and perhaps doing some more shopping. Until then, I'll cherish the memories of this day and look forward to more adventures in Kyoto.

Good night from Kyoto!