Solo Adventure in the Cultural Heart of Japan: Exploring Kyoto

A Day Steeped in Tradition

Today was everything I imagined Kyoto to be and more. It was a day of exploring ancient wonders, getting lost in historic streets, and savoring the flavors of Japan. I embraced the city's blend of serenity and vibrancy, capturing moments that I know I'll cherish long after I've returned to Dresden.

My day began with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Kizahashi, located in The Thousand Kyoto hotel. The hotel is conveniently located near the Kyoto Station. It was a delightful start, offering a delicate array of flavors that gently woke up my palate. The presentation was as much a feast for the eyes as it was for the stomach, setting a high bar for the culinary experiences to come. I savored every bite, feeling grateful for the chance to experience such a refined start to my day.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Kizahashi in Kyoto, where seasonal ingredients meet traditional artistry in every dish.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its historic sites, but in the way it seamlessly blends the past with the present, creating a living, breathing tapestry of culture.

After breakfast, I made my way to Kiyomizu-dera, one of Japan's most celebrated temples. Founded in 780 on the site of the Otowa Waterfall, the temple’s name, literally meaning Pure Water Temple, is derived from the fall's waters. The crisp morning air added to the sense of reverence as I approached the temple grounds. The iconic wooden stage jutting out from the main hall offered a panoramic view of Kyoto. Despite the February chill, the view was breathtaking. I could only imagine how much more vibrant it would be during the cherry blossom season.


Experience the serene beauty and spiritual essence of Kiyomizu-dera, an iconic Buddhist temple in Kyoto, renowned for its stunning architecture and breathtaking views.
I explored the main hall, admiring the small statue of the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon, the temple's primary object of worship. I also visited the Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking. Though I'm happily married to Maximilian, I couldn't resist participating in the tradition of attempting to walk between the two love stones with my eyes closed. Let’s just say my attempt was less than successful, much to my amusement. Perhaps love needs a little open-eyed guidance, after all! Before leaving Kiyomizu-dera, I visited the Otowa Waterfall, where three separate streams offer different blessings: longevity, success at school, and a fortunate love life. I chose the stream for longevity, hoping to have many more years to explore and write about beautiful places like Kyoto.

Next on my itinerary was Gion, Kyoto's famed geisha district. As I wandered along the eastern bank of the Kamo River, I was transported to another era. The preserved wooden machiya townhouses and narrow streets exuded a timeless charm. Gion’s history dates back to the Middle Ages when it served travelers and pilgrims visiting the nearby Yasaka-jinja Shrine. While walking through Gion, I hoped to catch a glimpse of a geiko or maiko, but they proved elusive. Instead, I immersed myself in the district's atmosphere, imagining the lives of these skilled entertainers who have captivated audiences for centuries. I learned that Gion is split into two main areas: Gion Kobu and Gion Higashi, each with its own unique charm and set of teahouses. I also discovered Gion Corner, a cultural theatre that offers a condensed introduction to various traditional Japanese performing arts. Perhaps I'll visit it on a future trip to delve deeper into Japan's artistic heritage.


Explore Gion, Kyoto's iconic geisha district, where tradition meets charm in a captivating blend of culture and history.
For lunch, I ventured to Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, a small teppanyaki restaurant. However, I was a little disappointed to learn that they no longer offer a vegan or vegetarian set menu. From what I gathered, at least one person in a party has to order meat. Given my dietary preferences, I decided to explore other options and ended up grabbing a quick bite at a nearby noodle shop. It wasn't quite the teppanyaki experience I had hoped for, but it was still a delicious and satisfying meal.


Experience authentic teppanyaki at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, Kyoto's premier destination for Japanese cuisine in a lively izakaya setting.
After lunch, I strolled along Ninenzaka, a charming cobblestone slope in the Higashiyama area. This street, lined with souvenir shops, teahouses, and restaurants, is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. The atmosphere was magical, with many visitors dressed in traditional kimonos, adding to the feeling of stepping back in time. I explored the various shops, admiring the local crafts and souvenirs. I even stopped by a Starbucks located in a renovated traditional Japanese house, enjoying a latte while soaking in the unique Kyoto atmosphere.


Experience Ninenzaka's historical charm with traditional wooden structures, vibrant shops, and serene tea houses in the heart of Kyoto.
One of the shops that caught my eye was Kazari Nishiki, which offers seasonal Japanese goods and Western clothing with a touch of Kyoto. I was impressed by their selection of cute crafts and stylish clothing. I ended up purchasing a beautiful silk scarf as a memento of my visit. I’m always looking for unique pieces to add to my wardrobe, and this scarf seemed like the perfect way to remember my time in Kyoto.


Discover the artistry of Kyoto at Kazari Nishiki, your ultimate destination for authentic Japanese souvenirs and traditional crafts.
As evening approached, I made my way to Chihana for dinner. This restaurant has a history dating back to 1946. With only a few seats at the counter and a couple of private rooms, Chihana offers an intimate and exclusive dining experience. The chefs work in front of you to finish the dishes, paying close attention to your individual needs and preferences. The service throughout was exceptional, with the chefs and waitresses displaying genuine enthusiasm for the food and a desire for guests to enjoy themselves. I felt incredibly welcome and thoroughly enjoyed the meal.


Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Chihana in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district - where tradition meets culinary artistry.
The savory dishes were exceptional, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients and expertly crafted flavors. One dish that stood out was the grilled aubergine, served with sesame soy vinegar. The texture and flavor were remarkable, a testament to the chef's skill and attention to detail. I was also impressed by the prawn and Japanese pear tempura, with a light batter and a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. The meal concluded with rice, pickles, and freshly chopped mint, a simple yet satisfying end to a memorable culinary journey. While I was quite full by this point, I appreciated the light and refreshing finish.

As I reflect on today, I'm filled with gratitude for the chance to experience Kyoto's rich cultural heritage. From the serene beauty of Kiyomizu-dera to the historic charm of Gion and Ninenzaka, every moment was a treasure. I’m excited to see what tomorrow brings, as I plan to explore the Philosopher's Path, Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), and Heian Shrine. And perhaps I'll even treat myself to a drink at The Common One Bar Kyoto in the evening. Good night from Kyoto!

I'm finding it hard to believe that my trip is already halfway over. I'm already looking forward to sharing more of my adventures with you all. Until then, happy travels!