Solo Exploration of Kyoto's Cultural Wonders

A Journey Through Time in Kyoto

Today was a day of wandering through the heart of Kyoto, a city where ancient traditions thrive amidst the gentle hum of modern life. The day unfolded like a meticulously crafted scroll, each location revealing a new layer of history and beauty. It was a day of temples, teahouses, and tantalizing tastes, leaving me with a deeper appreciation for this cultural gem.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Masayoshi Japanese Dining. It was the perfect way to fuel up before embarking on a day of sightseeing. After breakfast, my first stop was the iconic Kiyomizu-dera. The temple was founded in 778 and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is perched on a hillside, offering panoramic views of Kyoto. The vibrant green of the surrounding trees created a stunning contrast with the clear blue sky. While the main hall was undergoing some renovations, it didn't detract from the overall experience. The energy of the place was palpable, with throngs of visitors exploring every nook and cranny.


Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto, where culture and nature harmoniously blend.

The temple's wooden stage is undoubtedly what the temple is most famous for, offering an outstanding panoramic view of Kyoto rising out of a sea of maples. The views were simply breathtaking, stretching out over the entire city. I could see the modern skyline in the distance, juxtaposed against the traditional architecture closer to the temple. I made my way to the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors can drink from three separate streams of water, each said to grant either health, longevity, or success in studies. I chose the stream for health, hoping to stay in good shape for all my future travels!

From Kiyomizu-dera, I strolled down to Ninenzaka, a charming, cobblestone street lined with traditional shops and teahouses. The atmosphere was enchanting, with the gentle slope of the street adding to its unique character. It was bustling with people, many dressed in kimonos, which added to the traditional feel. I couldn't resist popping into a few shops, picking up some small souvenirs for Thandi and David back home. The street is filled with souvenir shops and street food.


Experience Ninenzaka's historical charm with traditional wooden structures, vibrant shops, and serene tea houses in the heart of Kyoto.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its temples and shrines, but in the way it seamlessly blends the past with the present.

Lunch was at Hafuu, a restaurant known for its exquisite meat dishes. I opted for their signature beef cutlet sandwich, and it was divine. The beef was tender and flavorful, and the sandwich was perfectly balanced. It was a delightful culinary experience that I won't soon forget. The restaurant has gained a reputation for its carefully selected meat dishes and attentive service, and is popular with a wide range of customers, from locals to tourists. The name of the restaurant reflects the founder's wish "to be bobbed by the pleasant waves and blown by the wind," and the restaurant places great importance on providing visitors with a relaxing dining experience.


Discover Hafuu in Kyoto: where premium Japanese beef meets culinary excellence in an elegant setting.

After lunch, I made my way to Yasaka Shrine, another of Kyoto's iconic landmarks. Founded over 1350 years ago, the shrine is located between the popular Gion and Higashiyama districts. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the shrine were captivating. I took my time wandering through the grounds, admiring the various structures and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. I learned that Yasaka Shrine is known for its summer festival, the Gion Matsuri, which dates back to the year 869 when a widespread epidemic occurred in various parts of Japan. To pray for protection from the epidemic, 66 floats were erected to enshrine the deities of Gion. The shrine has played a significant role in Kyoto's history and cultural heritage for over a millennium. Its Gion Matsuri is a symbol of the city's traditions and its ability to overcome hardships.


Discover the serene beauty of Yasaka Shrine, a historical Shinto sanctuary in Kyoto, renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural festivals.

Before dinner, I did some shopping at Daimaru Kyoto Store. It was a great place to find some unique gifts and souvenirs. The store offers a wide range of experiences for visitors, from a huge food basement with high-quality options to luxurious shopping opportunities. I explored the food floor, a culinary paradise that promised to tantalize my taste buds with a diverse selection of gourmet delights.


Explore the heart of Kyoto shopping at Daimaru Kyoto Store, where tradition meets modernity in a vibrant department store experience.

As the sun began to set, I headed to Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION for dinner. I decided to treat myself to a Kobe beef steak. It was cooked to perfection and melted in my mouth. The restaurant cooks with carefully selected wagyu beef—A5-grade wagyu Kobe beef and cattle that closely follow the bloodline of Hyogo Prefecture-raised wagyu Tajima Beef (the bloodline for certified Kobe beef), which has equal high quality as Kobe beef. All the seating is counter seating facing the teppan hotplate to ensure that customers can savor the meat at its best. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience unparalleled flavors at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION in Kyoto - a must-visit for steak lovers seeking authenticity.

Reflecting on the day, I'm struck by how seamlessly Kyoto blends its ancient past with its vibrant present. The temples and shrines stand as testaments to centuries of tradition, while the modern shops and restaurants offer a glimpse into contemporary Japanese life. I thought about David and Thandi, missing them and wishing they could experience this with me. I know Thandi would have loved the colorful kimonos and the sweet treats along Ninenzaka.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, Tofuku-ji Temple and Kyoto Tower. I am particularly excited about Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding up the mountainside.

As I settle into my room at The Screen Hotel, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this incredible city. Kyoto has a way of captivating the soul, leaving a lasting impression that I know I will carry with me long after I leave. It is a place where I can truly feel connected to the past, while also embracing the present. I am already looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery.


Experience the perfect blend of luxury and comfort at The Screen in Kyoto, a serene haven with stunning city views and top-notch amenities.

I am also reminded of how my journey reflects the spirit of Malawi, where the warmth of the community and the beauty of the landscape create a similar sense of belonging and wonder. Just as Lake Malawi holds a special place in my heart, Kyoto has now carved out its own space, inviting me to return and explore its hidden corners once more.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a note to buy a universal power adapter. It's been a constant struggle to keep my devices charged, and I definitely don't want to run out of battery tomorrow! I also wish I had packed an umbrella. The weather forecast for tomorrow is predicting rain, and I don't want to get caught in a downpour.

Goodnight from Kyoto!