Cultural Journey Through Kyoto with Friends

Whispers of Old Kyoto

Today, Kyoto truly felt like stepping back in time. The ancient temples, the winding streets, and the traditional flavors all wove together to create an unforgettable tapestry of experiences. It was a day filled with exploration, reflection, and a deep appreciation for the enduring beauty of this historic city. I am so glad to share my experiences with you.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hyoto Shijo Karasuma. Habibullah and I enjoyed a traditional Japanese spread. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. I always appreciate starting the day with a meal that reflects the local culture; it sets the tone for deeper immersion.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors with exquisite hot pot and Kaiseki dishes at Hyoto Shijo Karasuma in Kyoto.

After breakfast, we made our way to Kiyomizu-dera. The temple is located on Mt. Otowa, in the eastern hills of Kyoto. As we approached, the vibrant colors of the temple against the backdrop of the surrounding hills were truly striking. The history of Kiyomizu-dera dates back over 1250 years, founded in 778 CE by Enchin Shonin, a priest from Nara who had a vision that directed him to the Otowa Spring. It's a place where the deity Kannon's great compassion prevails, open to all. The temple has been rebuilt several times after fires, including one in 1629, with restoration beginning in 1633. The main hall, with its large viewing platform, offers a panorama of Kyoto. The Main Hall is an official National Treasure of Japan and the complex is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The current buildings date back to the 17th century.


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

Visiting Kiyomizu-dera is not just seeing a temple; it's feeling the pulse of Kyoto's history and spirituality.

As we walked through the Niomon Gate, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. The temple grounds were bustling with visitors, but there was still an air of tranquility. We paused to admire the three-story Koyasu Pagoda, known for granting trouble-free childbirth. The view from the wooden stage was breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista of Kyoto. I learned that the expression “to jump off the stage at Kiyomizu” is similar to our saying “take the plunge,” which gave me a chuckle.

We made our way to the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors can drink from three separate streams, each said to grant health, longevity, or success in studies. I remembered the guidebook mentioning that you should only choose one stream to drink from, so I opted for health, hoping to keep up with all this travel! It was a refreshing experience, both physically and spiritually.

Leaving Kiyomizu-dera, we strolled down Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka. These historic streets are lined with traditional wooden buildings housing shops, tea houses, and restaurants. As we wandered through the narrow lanes, I felt transported to another era. Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka are important Preserved Districts for their historic buildings. The streets are pedestrian-only, which adds to the serene atmosphere. Ninenzaka was built in 807 and Sannenzaka in 808. The names mean “slope of two years” and “slope of three years”. There's a local legend that if you fall on either street, you will die within two or three years, so we made sure to watch our step!


Discover Sannenzaka, a historic street in Kyoto, where traditional charm meets stunning views and delightful local cuisine.


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

The shops along the way were filled with local crafts, sweets, and souvenirs. I couldn't resist buying a few small trinkets to bring back home. Habibullah found a beautiful hand-painted fan for Farzana. We stopped at a tea house for a cup of matcha and a traditional Japanese sweet. The tea was warm and comforting, and the sweet was delicate and flavorful.

For lunch, we decided to try Gion Nanba, a Kappo restaurant. The restaurant is located near Yasaka Shrine, in a traditional Kyoto alley. Gion Nanba offers an intimate dining experience, and the chef specializes in dishes made with seasonal ingredients. We opted for one of the lunch courses. Each course featured a series of small, artfully presented dishes, highlighting the flavors of the season. The presentation was as much a part of the experience as the taste. I particularly enjoyed the chirashi-sushi. The chef's attention to detail was evident in every bite.


Discover authentic kaiseki cuisine at Gion Nanba, where tradition meets taste in Kyoto's historic Gion district.

In the late afternoon, we did some shopping at Kyoto Porta, which is directly connected to Kyoto Station. Kyoto Porta has over 220 shops, with dining, shopping, and souvenirs. I found a lovely silk scarf and some traditional sweets. Kyoto Porta offers free Wi-Fi, coin lockers, and duty-free shops. It’s a very convenient place to shop, especially for travelers.


Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Kyoto Porta, where tradition meets modernity in a delightful blend of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

As evening approached, we decided to experience Kyoto's nightlife at The Common One Bar Kyoto. It was a bit tricky to find, tucked away in a side street, but that added to its charm. The bar features tatami rooms and a tea room, blending tradition and modernity. I tried a brandy-based cocktail, which was delicious. The bartender was attentive and created a special drink based on my preferences. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at The Common One Bar, where tradition meets innovation in every cocktail.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, with its thousands of torii gates, Tofuku-ji Temple, and Sanjusangendo Temple. I'm particularly excited about seeing the torii gates; they've always fascinated me.

I am so grateful for the chance to experience the rich culture and history of Kyoto. It’s a city that truly captivates the senses and nourishes the soul. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!