Cherry Blossoms and Cultural Wonders: Exploring Kyoto with Friends

Kyoto's Hidden Gems: A Day of Manga, Shibori, and Railways

Today was an adventure into some of Kyoto's more niche cultural offerings, a delightful departure from the temples and gardens that usually dominate the tourist trail. It's amazing how much this city has to offer beyond the well-trodden paths, and I was excited to delve into the worlds of manga, textiles, and railway history. I was particularly excited to share these experiences with my friends, each with unique interests that I knew would be piqued by our itinerary.

Our day began with a hearty Japanese breakfast at Kizahashi, located in The Thousand Kyoto hotel. It was a bit of a splurge, costing 6,800 JPY, but definitely worth it. The breakfast was an exquisite affair, featuring delicate flavors and fresh, local ingredients. I opted for the traditional Japanese breakfast, which included miso soup, grilled fish, tamagoyaki (rolled omelet), and perfectly steamed rice. It was a wonderful way to start the day, fueling us for our exploration of Kyoto's cultural landscape. Afterwards, we set off to explore the 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.

Immersed in the World of Manga

The Kyoto International Manga Museum was our first stop, and what a fascinating place it turned out to be! Housed in a former elementary school, the museum is a testament to Japan's enduring love affair with manga. As someone who appreciates visual storytelling, I was eager to explore this unique art form. The sheer volume of manga on display was staggering. The Wall of Manga, filled with 50,000 books, was especially impressive. I was also intrigued by the translated versions of manga and comics from around the world in the Manga Expo corner. It was interesting to see how this art form transcends cultural boundaries. I even tried my hand at drawing manga-style characters, with mixed results! While I may not have a future as a manga artist, I certainly gained a newfound appreciation for the craft. My friends and I spent hours browsing the exhibits, reading different manga, and learning about the history and evolution of this unique art form. It was a fun and engaging experience that left us with a deeper understanding of Japanese popular culture. We even saw some artists sketching and creating new characters, which was fascinating to watch.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

The Art of Shibori

Next on our list was the Kyoto Shibori Museum, a place dedicated to the ancient art of Japanese tie-dye. I must admit, I didn't know much about shibori before visiting, but I was quickly captivated by the intricate techniques and stunning results. The museum showcased a variety of shibori works, from traditional kimonos to contemporary scarves, each displaying unique patterns and textures. The bimonthly special exhibitions arranged by tie-dye experts were a great way to see the variety of techniques. I was particularly fascinated by the Kyo-Kanoko-Shibori, the shibori technique specific to the Kyoto area.


Explore the exquisite art of Shibori at Kyoto Shibori Museum, where tradition and creativity blend seamlessly in stunning textile displays.

What struck me most was the level of skill and artistry involved in creating these textiles. Each piece is a labor of love, requiring meticulous planning and painstaking execution. I learned that some shibori techniques involve tying thousands of tiny knots to create intricate patterns. It's a testament to the dedication and patience of the artisans who have preserved this tradition for centuries. My friend, who is a textile designer, was particularly enthralled, examining the intricate patterns and discussing the techniques with the knowledgeable staff. We even had the opportunity to try our hand at a simplified shibori technique, creating our own small samples to take home. It was a humbling experience that gave me a newfound appreciation for the artistry and skill involved in this ancient craft. I was particularly drawn to the 'Kyo-arashi-shibori' scarf tie-dye course, and the fact that you can take your finished scarf home on the day is a great touch.

All Aboard at the Kyoto Railway Museum

Our final stop of the day was the Kyoto Railway Museum, a must-visit for any train enthusiast. Even though I'm not a huge train buff myself, I found the museum to be surprisingly engaging. The museum boasts one of the largest collections of trains in Japan, with 53 retired trains. The sheer scale of the locomotives was impressive, and it was fascinating to learn about the history and technology behind them. From classic steam locomotives to sleek Shinkansen bullet trains, the museum offered a comprehensive overview of Japan's railway heritage. I particularly enjoyed the interactive exhibits, where we could try our hand at operating a train simulator and explore the inner workings of a retired freight locomotive. I even took a ride on the SL Steam, a real steam locomotive that took us on a short journey through the museum grounds. It was a fun and nostalgic experience that transported me back to a bygone era. The railway diorama, one of Japan's largest, was also a highlight, with miniature trains whizzing through meticulously crafted landscapes. Hans would have absolutely loved this place, I'll have to bring him next time!


Discover the rich history of railways at the Kyoto Railway Museum, a family-friendly attraction in the heart of Kyoto showcasing trains and interactive exhibits.

It was interesting to note that the Kyoto Railway Museum was opened in 2016 by JR West on the former site of the Umekoji Train and Locomotive Museum. I also learned that the museum displays railway uniforms, tools and an abundance of other appurtenances from past eras.

A Culinary Finale

After a day of cultural immersion, we were ready for a delicious dinner. We chose Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki & Teppan-yaki Kamehameha, a restaurant known for its savory pancakes and teppanyaki dishes. The restaurant was cozy and intimate, with only 12 seats around the counter, allowing us to watch the chef prepare our meal with skill and care. I ordered the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a layered pancake filled with noodles, cabbage, and various toppings. It was cooked right in front of us, and it was absolutely delicious. The flavors were rich and savory, and the texture was perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. My friends opted for the teppanyaki dishes, which were equally impressive. The chef used fresh, local ingredients to create flavorful and visually stunning dishes. The staff were friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.


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

Travel is about the gorgeous feeling of teetering in the unknown.

Before heading back to the Prince Smart Inn Kyoto Sanjo, we stopped by Maiko Antiques Kyoto. This place was truly a treasure trove of vintage Japanese toys, retro-futuristic models, and eclectic antiques. The shop was dimly lit and crammed with all sorts of fascinating objects, from vintage cameras to terrifying dolls. It was a visual feast for the eyes, and I could have spent hours browsing the quirky collection. Although I didn't buy anything, I enjoyed the experience of stepping back in time and exploring this unique corner of Kyoto. I've made a mental note to return to Maiko Antiques Kyoto to pick up a souvenir before we leave Kyoto. I'm sure I can find something unique and memorable to remind me of this incredible trip.


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

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm struck by the diversity and richness of Kyoto's cultural offerings. From the vibrant world of manga to the intricate art of shibori and the fascinating history of Japanese railways, there's something for everyone to discover in this enchanting city. And tomorrow, we are off to Byodoin Temple, Uji Shrine and the Uji Bridge, before ending the day at Concrete Bar.

I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my friends, and I look forward to continuing our exploration of Japan in the days to come. I'm also reminded of the importance of stepping off the beaten path and seeking out the hidden gems that make each destination unique. After all, it's these unexpected discoveries that often leave the most lasting impressions.