Exploring Kyoto: A 15-Day Cultural Adventure with Friends

Kyoto's Last Hurrah

As our 15-day adventure in Kyoto draws to a close, I wanted to soak up every last bit of this magical city. Today was a mix of architectural wonders, culinary delights, and a final stroll through some bustling streets. It's hard to believe our time here is already over, but I'm determined to make these last few hours count!



Our final day began with a hearty breakfast at Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki & Teppan-yaki Kamehameha. It was a bit of a mouthful to say, but the food was absolutely worth it! I'd heard so much about Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, and I was eager to try it. Luckily we had a reservation, because the place was packed. The restaurant was cozy, with only a few seats around the counter, and the chef was busy preparing the dishes with impressive skill. I opted for a set meal that included an appetizer, a drink, and of course, the okonomiyaki. It was savory pancake layered with noodles, cabbage, and a fried egg, topped with a special okonomiyaki sauce. Every bite was a burst of flavor, and it was the perfect way to start our last day.


Discover authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Kamehameha, Kyoto's premier destination for delicious Japanese cuisine.

After breakfast, we made our way to Kyoto Station, not just to catch a train, but to explore its architectural marvels. The Kyoto Station Daikaidan (Great Staircase) was our first stop. This massive staircase is more than just a way to get from one floor to another; it’s an attraction in itself. The 171 steps are beautifully illuminated with LED lights, creating stunning patterns and images that reflect Kyoto's heritage. It was truly a sight to behold.


Discover the architectural beauty of Kyoto Station Daikaidan, a stunning staircase that blends modern design with traditional charm in the heart of Kyoto.

The end of a journey is never the end; it's merely the place where the next one begins.

We climbed the Daikaidan, taking our time to admire the views of the station and the city beyond. At the top, we found the Sky Garden, a peaceful oasis with panoramic views. It was the perfect spot to reflect on our incredible journey and take some final photos. I even managed to snap a few shots of Jean-Pierre looking particularly contemplative, which I know he'll appreciate later.



Next on our list was the Nidec Kyoto Tower, which rises majestically next to the station. Since it was such a clear day, we decided to go up to the observation deck for a 360-degree view of Kyoto. From 100 meters high, we could see everything – from the ancient temples to the modern skyline. It was amazing to see how the old and new coexist so harmoniously in this city. I pointed out Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari Shrine, reminiscing about our visits there earlier in the trip. The tower itself is quite the landmark, standing at 131 meters and offering a unique perspective on the city.


Experience breathtaking views of Kyoto's skyline and rich history at Nidec Kyoto Tower, a perfect blend of modern architecture and cultural heritage.

After soaking in the views from Kyoto Tower, we decided to immerse ourselves in some retail therapy at Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street. This bustling arcade is a covered street filled with shops selling everything from traditional crafts to trendy fashion. It's a great place to pick up souvenirs and experience the local atmosphere. The street stretches about 500 meters and is always lively with tourists and locals alike. We strolled through the arcade, browsing the shops and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. I picked up a few small gifts for Sophie and some traditional Japanese sweets for Jean-Pierre.


Explore Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street, a vibrant hub of traditional crafts, delicious street food, and unique shopping experiences in the heart of Kyoto.

For lunch, we indulged in more teppanyaki, this time at Teppanyaki Minami. It was another fantastic culinary experience. The chef prepared our meal right in front of us, showcasing his skills with the sizzling grill. We savored every bite of the perfectly cooked meat and fresh vegetables. It was a delicious and entertaining way to enjoy our last lunch in Kyoto.


Experience authentic teppanyaki at Teppanyaki Minami in Osaka—where culinary artistry meets breathtaking city views.

As the day wound down, we decided to treat ourselves to a special farewell dinner at Kinmata. This traditional Kyoto restaurant is known for its exquisite Kaiseki cuisine, a multi-course meal that showcases the best of seasonal ingredients. The restaurant itself is a beautiful example of a traditional Kyoto trading establishment, with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Each course was a work of art, both in presentation and taste. It was the perfect way to end our culinary journey in Kyoto.


Experience authentic Obanzai cuisine at Kinmata, where tradition meets flavor in the heart of Kyoto.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post from our hotel room, I can't help but feel a little sad that our adventure is coming to an end. But I'm also filled with gratitude for the incredible experiences we've had in Kyoto. From the ancient temples to the modern marvels, this city has captured my heart. I'm so glad I got to share this experience with my friends, and I know we'll all cherish these memories for years to come.



Tomorrow, we'll be heading back to Lyon, filled with stories and photos to share with our families. I'm already looking forward to planning our next adventure, but Kyoto will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, offering something for everyone. I hope my blog posts have inspired you to visit this magical place and experience its unique charm for yourself.







Sayōnara, Kyoto! Until next time…