Exploring Kyoto: A 15-Day Cultural Adventure with Friends

Kyoto's Fiery Spirit

Today was all about diving deep into the spiritual heart of Kyoto, and what a day it turned out to be! From the mesmerizing vermilion gates of Fushimi Inari to the serene gardens of Tōfuku-ji, every moment felt like stepping further into a world of ancient traditions and breathtaking beauty. I’m so excited to share all the details with you, so grab a cup of tea and settle in!

Our day began bright and early with a hearty breakfast at Mezopotamia Kebab House. Yes, you read that right – kebab in Kyoto! It might seem a bit out of place, but I’d read some great reviews, and it was conveniently located near our hotel. I have to say, it was a surprisingly delicious and satisfying way to start the day. The aroma of the spices wafted through the air, instantly transporting me back to my travels in Europe. It was a fun little detour from the traditional Japanese breakfast, and the perfect fuel for a day of exploring.

With our stomachs full and energy levels high, we hopped on a train to Fushimi Inari Shrine, home to the famous Senbon Torii, or thousands of vermilion gates. As we approached the entrance, the sight of the towering Romon Gate, donated by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1589, was simply breathtaking. The vibrant color against the lush green hillside created a striking contrast, and I couldn't wait to begin our ascent.


Explore the enchanting Fushimi Inari Shrine, home to thousands of vibrant torii gates, where tradition and breathtaking beauty await every visitor.
The path leading up Mount Inari is lined with seemingly endless rows of these torii gates, each one donated by individuals and businesses seeking blessings for prosperity and success. Walking through the tunnel of vermilion was an almost surreal experience. The sunlight filtered through the gaps, casting an ethereal glow on the path ahead. It felt like we were walking through a gateway to another world, a world of spirits and ancient traditions. The higher we climbed, the quieter it became, and I could feel a sense of peace washing over me.

The journey is the destination, especially when that journey takes you through thousands of vermilion gates leading to a sacred mountain.

As we continued our hike, we passed countless stone altars and fox statues, the fox being the messenger of Inari, the Shinto god of rice. I learned that Inari is believed to be a guardian deity that provides blessings such as prosperous business, a good harvest, and family safety. I found myself stopping frequently to admire the intricate details of the carvings and to snap photos of the stunning views. The higher we climbed, the more panoramic the vistas became, offering breathtaking views of Kyoto sprawling below.

We reached the Yotsutsuji intersection, a popular resting point that provides stunning views. I paused to catch my breath and take in the scenery. It was a moment of pure serenity, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the echoes of ancient prayers. I could have stayed there for hours, simply soaking it all in.

After descending from Mount Inari, our stomachs were starting to rumble again. We decided to head to Katsukura in Kyoto Porta for lunch. I had heard great things about their tonkatsu, and I was eager to try it for myself. Located on the 11th floor of the Kyoto Station building, Katsukura is known for its high-quality pork cutlets and traditional Kyoto-style miso soup. As we waited in line, we were given menus to peruse, and the anticipation grew with each passing minute.


Discover authentic Tonkatsu at Katsukura - a must-visit Japanese restaurant in Kyoto offering delightful flavors in a modern setting.
Once inside, the bright and welcoming atmosphere immediately put us at ease. I ordered the pork tenderloin with prawn cutlet set, and Jean-Pierre opted for the classic Katsukura tonkatsu set. When our meals arrived, we were presented with a beautiful array of dishes, including the crispy tonkatsu, a bowl of steaming rice, flavorful miso soup, and a refreshing cabbage salad. The tonkatsu was perfectly cooked, with a crispy exterior and a juicy, tender interior. I especially loved grinding my own sesame seeds to add to the dipping sauce – it was such a fun and interactive experience.

With our bellies full and satisfied, we made our way to Tōfuku-ji Temple, a large Zen temple in southeastern Kyoto. Founded in 1236 by the powerful Fujiwara clan, Tōfuku-ji is renowned for its historical buildings and artistry of its gardens. As we approached the Sanmon Gate, the oldest Zen gate of its kind, I was immediately struck by its grandeur. The towering structure, dating back to 1425, exuded a sense of history and tranquility.


Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Tōfuku-ji Temple, a must-visit Buddhist landmark in Kyoto.
Wandering through the temple grounds, we explored the Hojo Garden, a unique rock garden surrounding the head priest's former living quarters on all sides. Each garden had a different character, employing pebbles, large rocks, moss, trees, and checkered patterns. I found myself lost in contemplation as I wandered through each section, admiring the artistry and symbolism of the designs. It was a masterclass in minimalist beauty, and I left feeling inspired and refreshed.

One of the highlights of Tōfuku-ji was the Tsutenkyo Bridge, a raised, covered walkway that spans a valley filled with lush maple trees. While it wasn't autumn, and the leaves weren't ablaze with color, the verdant greenery was still a sight to behold. I could only imagine how spectacular it must be in the fall, when the entire valley transforms into a sea of red and gold.

Before heading back to the hotel, we decided to do a little shopping at the Daimaru Kyoto Store. Located near Kawaramachi Station, Daimaru is one of the largest department stores in Kyoto, offering a wide range of souvenirs, clothes, and decorative items. I was particularly impressed by the food floor, a culinary paradise filled with gourmet delights. We picked up a few treats to take back to Lyon, including some traditional Japanese sweets and a bottle of local sake. It was the perfect way to end a day of cultural immersion and spiritual exploration.


Explore the heart of Kyoto shopping at Daimaru Kyoto Store, where tradition meets modernity in a vibrant department store experience.
As I sit here now, reflecting on the day's adventures, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and spirituality of Kyoto. The vibrant vermilion gates of Fushimi Inari, the serene gardens of Tōfuku-ji, and the delicious flavors of Kyoto cuisine have all left an indelible mark on my soul.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), Ryoan-ji (famous for its Zen garden), and Ninna-ji Temple. I can't wait to see what wonders await us as we continue our exploration of this enchanting city. And perhaps we'll find a nice bar, like The Common One Bar Kyoto, to relax in the evening. Stay tuned for more tales from our Kyoto adventure!

I'm also very glad that I brought my camera, though I forgot my Japanese phrasebook and an extra memory card! I will have to try to find a store that sells them in Kyoto!

À bientôt!