Exploring the Cultural Tapestry of Kyoto
Day 3: A Day of Vermilion, Markets, and Manga in Kyoto
Wander through vibrant Kyoto, exploring the iconic Fushimi Inari, bustling Nishiki Market, and the whimsical Manga Museum. A cultural feast!
Kyoto's Kaleidoscope: Shrines, Markets, and Manga
Today was a whirlwind of color, culture, and culinary delights in Kyoto. From the mesmerizing vermilion gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha to the bustling aisles of Nishiki Market and the captivating world of manga, it was a day that truly stimulated the senses. I started early, eager to experience as much as possible, and Kyoto did not disappoint.
My day began with a hearty breakfast at Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store. I'd heard whispers about their exceptional tonkatsu, and as a person who appreciates a good, comforting meal, I knew I had to try it. Finding the restaurant was a mini-adventure in itself, tucked away in a narrow alley off Sanjo street. The tonkatsu was indeed a cut above the rest, the pork tender and the crust perfectly crisp. I particularly enjoyed blending my own dipping sauce at the table, a unique touch that added to the experience. It was the perfect fuel for the day ahead. I even made a note to Hans-Peter that we should try to recreate the sauce when I get back to Berlin. He will love this, I am sure!
With my stomach full and my spirits high, I set off to Fushimi Inari Taisha. The train ride was smooth, and soon I found myself at the foot of the mountain, gazing up at the seemingly endless rows of vermilion torii gates. The sight was breathtaking. The crisp February air nipped at my cheeks, but the beauty of the shrine kept me warm. I began my ascent, walking through the vibrant tunnels of gates, each one donated by a different company or individual. It was a truly awe-inspiring experience, feeling the history and devotion woven into every step.
Discover the spiritual heart of Kyoto at Fushimi Inari Taisha, renowned for its thousands of striking red torii gates and serene hiking trails.
The higher I climbed, the quieter it became, the crowds thinning out as I made my way up the mountain. I paused frequently, not just to catch my breath, but to soak in the serene atmosphere. The sunlight filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the path. I felt a sense of peace and connection to something ancient and powerful. It reminded me of the forests back home in Latvia, where I spent my childhood exploring the hidden paths and listening to the whispers of the wind.
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.
After descending from Fushimi Inari, my appetite was calling again. It was time to explore Nishiki Market, Kyoto's bustling kitchen. The market was a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and smells. Vendors hawked their wares, offering samples of everything from pickled vegetables to fresh seafood. The energy was infectious, and I found myself caught up in the excitement, eager to try everything. I sampled some local delicacies, including yakitori and matcha sweets, each bite a burst of flavor. It was a completely different experience from the quiet contemplation of Fushimi Inari, but just as captivating.
Explore Nishiki Market, Kyoto's vibrant food market, where local delicacies meet rich cultural heritage in a delightful shopping experience.
Navigating the narrow aisles of Nishiki Market was an adventure in itself. The crowds were thick, but everyone was in good spirits, eager to share in the culinary delights on offer. I marveled at the variety of ingredients, many of which I had never seen before. It was a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Kyoto, a city that takes its food very seriously. I purchased some pickles to bring back to the Ryokan, a small reminder of the vibrant flavors of Nishiki Market.
For lunch, I ventured to Gion Mikaku, a steak restaurant that promised a culinary experience. The restaurant was tucked away in the Gion district, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geishas. The ambiance was elegant and refined, a stark contrast to the bustling market I had just left. The steak was exquisite, cooked to perfection and melt-in-your-mouth tender. It was a true indulgence, a moment of pure culinary bliss. I savored every bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such a refined dining experience.
Discover Gion Mikaku, where exceptional steak meets authentic Japanese culture in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district.
After lunch, I decided to immerse myself in a different kind of culture – the world of manga. I made my way to the Kyoto International Manga Museum, housed in a former elementary school. The museum was a treasure trove of comics, with walls lined with thousands of volumes. I spent hours browsing the collection, marveling at the artistry and storytelling on display. It was fascinating to see the history of manga, from its early beginnings to its current global popularity.
Explore the rich world of Japanese comics at Kyoto International Manga Museum, a cultural gem in Kyoto offering extensive manga collections and engaging exhibitions.
I found a cozy spot in the outdoor reading area and settled in with a few volumes, enjoying the afternoon sunshine. It was a relaxing and enjoyable way to end the day, surrounded by the colorful and imaginative world of manga. I even found a few volumes in German, which brought a smile to my face. It was a reminder that culture knows no boundaries, that stories can connect people across languages and borders.
Before dinner, I took a detour to Kyoto Crafts Store, hoping to find a special memento of my trip. The store was a treasure trove of traditional crafts, from pottery to textiles. I spent some time browsing the displays, admiring the skill and artistry of the local artisans. I eventually settled on a small, hand-painted ceramic bowl, a perfect reminder of my time in Kyoto.
Explore the essence of Kyoto's artistry at the Kyoto Crafts Store, where traditional handicrafts meet contemporary charm.
For dinner, I had a reservation at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, a small, intimate restaurant run by a husband and wife team. Getting a reservation was a challenge, but I was determined to experience their acclaimed teppanyaki cuisine. The restaurant was small, with only 14 seats, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. The owners, Hideki and Naoko, were incredibly hospitable, sharing stories and educating us about the ingredients they used.
Experience authentic teppanyaki at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, Kyoto's premier destination for Japanese cuisine in a lively izakaya setting.
The food was exceptional, each dish a work of art. The homemade gyoza were flavorful, the scallops and prawns perfectly grilled, and the tempura soft shell crab was a revelation. But the star of the evening was undoubtedly the A5 wagyu beef, which was cooked to perfection and melted in my mouth. It was the best wagyu I had ever tasted. The evening ended with a fortune note and a sweet treat, a perfect ending to a perfect meal.
As I walked back to the Kyoto Watazen Ryokan, I reflected on the day's adventures. It had been a whirlwind of experiences, from the spiritual heights of Fushimi Inari to the culinary delights of Nishiki Market and the artistic wonders of the Manga Museum. Kyoto had truly captured my heart, and I was eager to see what tomorrow would bring.
Discover the charm of Kyoto at Kyoto Watazen Ryokan, where traditional Japanese hospitality meets modern comforts in a prime location.
Tomorrow, I plan to explore Arashiyama, including the Bamboo Path and Tenryu-ji Temple. I hope the weather holds up, as I'm looking forward to a day surrounded by nature. And perhaps, if time allows, I'll treat myself to a drink at The Common One Bar Kyoto, a perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring.
Today I got to see a bit of the Setsubun festival, which is held at the beginning of February. I saw it at Fushimi Inari Shrine, as well as Heian Shrine where performers throw roasted beans into the crowd to cast out evil spirits. There was also a Plum Blossom festival at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine where sweets and other items with plum blossoms were displayed. It was a pleasant experience to witness these traditional events. I wish Hans-Peter was here to witness it with me. I am sure he would have loved it!
I am off to bed now, excited for a new day of adventure. Until tomorrow!
Go to day 2
Kyoto's Ancient Echoes: A Day of Temples and Timeless Traditions
Go to day 4
A Day of Serenity in Arashiyama: Bamboo Forests and Ancient Temples
Exploring the Cultural Tapestry of Kyoto
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Discover Kyoto's captivating history and culture, exploring ancient temples and vibrant markets. An immersive solo adventure awaits in Japan's cultural heart.
Meet this Featured Explorer
Elza Bērziņa-Schmidt
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Occupation:
Archivist at the Deutsches Historisches Museum
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Country:
Germany
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Age:
53
Es esmu Elza Bērziņa-Schmidt, a Latvian native living in Berlin, and an archivist with a passion for history and travel. Through my blog, I share my travel experiences, combining historical insights with personal anecdotes. Join me as I explore the world, uncovering hidden gems and immersing myself in different cultures. I hope to inspire you to embark on your own adventures, whether it's exploring ancient ruins or discovering the charm of a local market.
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Kyoto Watazen Ryokan
Discover the charm of Kyoto at Kyoto Watazen Ryokan, where traditional Japanese hospitality meets modern comforts in a prime location.
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Fushimi Inari Taisha
Discover the spiritual heart of Kyoto at Fushimi Inari Taisha, renowned for its thousands of striking red torii gates and serene hiking trails.
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Nishiki Market
Explore Nishiki Market, Kyoto's vibrant food market, where local delicacies meet rich cultural heritage in a delightful shopping experience.
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Kyoto International Manga Museum
Explore the rich world of Japanese comics at Kyoto International Manga Museum, a cultural gem in Kyoto offering extensive manga collections and engaging exhibitions.
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Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store
Savor the best tonkatsu in Kyoto at Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store—where tradition meets flavor.
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Gion Mikaku
Discover Gion Mikaku, where exceptional steak meets authentic Japanese culture in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district.
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Teppan Tavern Tenamonya
Experience authentic teppanyaki at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, Kyoto's premier destination for Japanese cuisine in a lively izakaya setting.
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Kyoto Crafts Store
Explore the essence of Kyoto's artistry at the Kyoto Crafts Store, where traditional handicrafts meet contemporary charm.
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