Exploring the Cultural Tapestry of Kyoto

Kyoto's Golden Start

My first day in Kyoto was nothing short of magical. Waking up in the cozy Kyoto Watazen Ryokan, I felt a sense of anticipation for the cultural immersion that awaited. As an archivist, I've spent years studying history, but nothing compares to experiencing it firsthand. Today was all about iconic landmarks and serene escapes, a perfect introduction to Kyoto's captivating charm.


Discover the charm of Kyoto at Kyoto Watazen Ryokan, where traditional Japanese hospitality meets modern comforts in a prime location.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at The Cellar Kyoto. The reviews I had read online mentioned its cozy atmosphere, and it certainly lived up to the hype. It was a delightful start to a day filled with exploration.

My first stop was Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. Even though it's February, and the trees were bare, the sight of the shimmering pavilion reflecting on the pond was breathtaking. The air was crisp, and a few brave plum blossoms were starting to show their colors, hinting at the spring to come. I could only imagine how beautiful the pavilion must look covered in snow, as some reports from earlier in the month indicated. The temple was serene, and I took my time wandering around the grounds, capturing the beauty of the landscape with my camera. It felt like stepping into a postcard, a moment frozen in time. As someone who appreciates the beauty of history, I found myself captivated by the story behind the temple's construction and its significance as a Zen Buddhist temple.


Explore Kinkaku-ji, the breathtaking Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, where history and nature blend beautifully in a tranquil setting.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its temples and gardens, but in the way it invites you to slow down and appreciate the present moment.

Next, I made my way to the Kyoto Imperial Palace. I learned that there was a special spring opening, exhibiting paintings and other works for the first time, which was a lucky coincidence. The palace was grand and imposing, a testament to the power and history of the Imperial family. I wandered through the gardens, imagining what life must have been like when emperors and empresses strolled these same paths. The plum blossoms were just starting to bloom, adding a touch of color to the landscape. Although the palace is open to the public all year round without prior registration, I decided to join one of the free guided tours to learn more about the history and significance of the palace. The tour guide shared fascinating stories about the palace's construction and its role in Japanese history. I was particularly interested in the enthronement ceremonies of Emperors Taisho and Showa, which were still held in the palace's main hall.


Explore the historical elegance and natural beauty of Kyoto Imperial Palace, a cultural landmark reflecting Japan's royal history.

For lunch, I chose Kyoto cuisine Teramachi Yoshikura, a restaurant near the Imperial Palace. The restaurant specializes in Japanese cuisine unique to Kyoto, made with seasonal ingredients. I opted for one of their set meals featuring fresh fish and local vegetables. What made the meal even more special was the Obanzai All-You-Can-Eat option that they offer for lunch. I enjoyed sampling the various Obanzai dishes, each with its unique flavor and texture. It was a delightful culinary experience that gave me a taste of Kyoto's local cuisine.


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

After lunch, I decided to visit the Kyoto Botanical Gardens. I had read that although winter might seem like a quieter time for a botanical garden, there were still plum blossoms to see. The gardens were peaceful, and I enjoyed strolling through the various sections, admiring the different plants and flowers. The greenhouse was a highlight, filled with tropical plants and flowers that thrived regardless of the outside temperature. It was a perfect retreat on a chilly day. I also learned that the gardens are known for their stunning foliage in the autumn, with maple trees, ginkgo trees, and Japanese zelkova creating a vibrant display of reds, yellows, and oranges.


Explore the Kyoto Botanical Gardens, a tranquil oasis showcasing diverse flora and stunning landscapes in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.

Before dinner, I decided to do some shopping at Maiko Antiques Kyoto. The shop was filled with strange, rare, and old objects, vintage Japanese toys, and retro-futuristic models. The owner was friendly and cheerfully answered my questions about the items. I ended up buying a few vintage matchboxes as souvenirs.


Explore the rich heritage of Japan at Maiko Antiques Kyoto, where timeless treasures await in a charming antique store setting.

Dinner was at Kikunoi Roan, a restaurant known for its classic Kyoto kaiseki cuisine. The meal was a culinary journey, with each dish carefully prepared and beautifully presented. The flavors were subtle and complex, and I savored every bite. The staff was attentive, and the atmosphere was elegant and refined. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience the art of kaiseki dining at Kikunoi Roan in Kyoto - where seasonal flavors meet exquisite presentation.

As I reflect on my first day in Kyoto, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this beautiful city. From the golden reflections of Kinkaku-ji to the imperial grandeur of the Kyoto Imperial Palace and the serene beauty of the Kyoto Botanical Gardens, every moment was a treasure. And the delicious meals at The Cellar Kyoto, Kyoto cuisine Teramachi Yoshikura, and Kikunoi Roan added to the richness of the experience. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, with plans to visit Kiyomizu-dera, Sannenzaka, and Kenninji Temple, and perhaps enjoy a drink at L'Escamoteur in the evening. I can't wait to continue my exploration of Kyoto's cultural tapestry.

I'm also feeling a little homesick for Hans-Peter and our quiet evenings in Berlin. I know he would have loved the meticulous craftsmanship on display at Kinkaku-ji and the tranquil beauty of the gardens. Perhaps one day, I can convince him to come with me to Japan. For now, I will have to share my experiences through my writing and photographs.

As I prepare for tomorrow's adventures, I realize I forgot to pack my Japanese phrasebook and portable phone charger. I'll have to remember to pick those up tomorrow. But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of this first day in Kyoto.

“To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.” - Aldous Huxley