Exploring Kyoto: A Cultural Adventure with Friends

A Day of Cultural Immersion in Kyoto

Today was a day dedicated to soaking in the cultural essence of Kyoto, a city that continues to enchant me with its seamless blend of tradition and modernity. Joined by my friends, I ventured out to explore shrines, museums, and gardens, each offering a unique perspective on this captivating city.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Komefuku. The restaurant offered a delightful start to the day, fueling us up for our adventures. The selection of rice was amazing, and I particularly enjoyed the white asparagus soup, a perfect complement to the rice. After breakfast, we set off to explore the day's attractions, eager to uncover the hidden gems of Kyoto.

Our first stop was the magnificent Heian Shrine. Approaching the shrine, the giant torii gate immediately commanded attention, its vermillion hue striking against the clear morning sky. As we stepped inside, I was struck by the spaciousness of the grounds, a wide-open courtyard surrounded by impressive buildings. It was built in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of Kyoto's founding as the capital. Dedicated to Emperor Kanmu, who established Kyoto in 794, and Emperor Komei, the last emperor to rule from Kyoto before the capital moved to Tokyo, the shrine felt like a bridge between the past and present.


Experience the tranquil beauty and cultural richness of Heian Shrine in Kyoto, a must-visit Shinto shrine surrounded by stunning gardens.

The main buildings, replicas of the original Imperial Palace from the Heian Period, were stunning in their detail, even if built on a smaller scale. We spent some time wandering through the Shin-en Garden, a paid garden behind the main buildings. The garden, designed by Ogawa Jihei VII, was beautiful and serene, even in early March. I can only imagine how stunning it must be in mid-April when the weeping cherry trees are in full bloom. The blend of water, stone, and wide-open spaces created a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for contemplation.

In the heart of Kyoto, every temple, garden, and museum whispers stories of centuries past, inviting you to listen and learn.

Next on our itinerary was the Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, a short walk from Heian Shrine. The museum is in the Okazaki area, near the National Museum of Modern Art. The building itself is a blend of classic and modern design, reflecting Kyoto's own ability to harmonize tradition and innovation. Inside, the museum boasted a diverse collection, from modern Japanese paintings to Western-style art and sculptures. I was particularly drawn to the special exhibitions, showcasing both local and international artists. The museum has a collection of approximately 4,200 works of art from the Meiji era to the present, including Japanese and Western-style paintings, sculptures, prints, crafts, and calligraphy. The museum reopened in 2020 after renovations, and it was clear that the aim was to create a cultural facility representing the evolving nature of Kyoto. I particularly enjoyed the exhibit of modern Japanese paintings and Picasso's copper plate print series.


Explore the unique blend of traditional and contemporary art at Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, a cultural haven in the heart of Kyoto.

For lunch, we chose Tategami, a restaurant known for its exquisite Kyoto cuisine. The meal was a culinary journey, with each dish showcasing the season's freshest ingredients. The presentation was as impressive as the taste, a testament to the artistry of Japanese cooking. The restaurant is near Nijo Castle, and the setting was a traditional Japanese aesthetic. I particularly enjoyed the Kaiseki Course, which featured seasonal delicacies that changed monthly.


Experience authentic Kyoto-style Japanese cuisine at Tategami - where tradition meets innovation in every bite.

In the afternoon, we sought tranquility at Murinan Garden, a classical Japanese promenade garden from the Meiji Period. Owned by Gensui Prince Yamagata Aritomo and designed by Ogawa Jihei, the garden was a masterpiece of landscape design. The garden covers 3135 square meters and features contrasts between shady forests and sunlit open spaces, and a long promenade to see the different sights of the garden, including many views of the Higashiyama Hills. As we strolled through the garden, I was struck by the way it incorporated the Higashiyama mountains into its design, creating a sense of harmony between nature and art. The sound of water trickling through the shallow artificial stream added to the serene atmosphere. It was fascinating to learn that the garden was fed by a canal from Lake Biwa, demonstrating the ingenuity of its design. The garden was built between 1894 and 1898.


Experience the serene beauty of Murinan Garden in Kyoto, a historical retreat blending nature and culture with a delightful café.

The garden's designer, Ogawa Jihei, also built the garden of the recreated Kyoto Imperial Palace nearby. In addition to the garden, a tea house, a traditional Japanese house, and a modern western-style house complete with an English-style lawn were added in 1898. The garden is sited on the slopes of the Higashiyama Hills and has a source of water by a canal from Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan, which feeds a shallow artificial stream, with a triple waterfall which runs through the garden.

As evening approached, we indulged in a delightful dinner at ryu no hige, a French kaiseki restaurant that beautifully blended Kyoto cuisine with innovative French dishes. The quality of the food was exceptional, and the outstanding service from the staff was also highly praised. The restaurant offered creative cuisine that combined traditional elements of Kyoto cuisine and French cuisine. The cuisine is characterized by utilizing seasonal ingredients and serving them in Shigaraki-ware dishes for visual enjoyment. The owner-chef continues to pursue new flavors using his own sensibilities. The atmosphere was modern yet harmonized with Japanese taste, providing a relaxing space. With jazz music playing in the background, the soothing colors and lighting created a comfortable atmosphere, making it a hideaway for adults. I savored every bite, appreciating the fusion of flavors and the artistry of the presentation. It was the perfect way to end a day of cultural exploration.


Discover the art of fusion dining at Ryu no Hige in Kyoto - where French elegance meets Japanese creativity.

To cap off the evening, we ventured to Turquoise Bar for a nightcap. The bar had a stylish atmosphere and a wide selection of drinks. The bartenders were skilled and attentive, crafting cocktails that perfectly matched our preferences. It was a great place to unwind and reflect on the day's experiences.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Turquoise Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a stylish and inviting atmosphere.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Katsura Imperial Villa, Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace, and Shugakuin Imperial Villa, followed by shopping at Kyoto Avanti. I am looking forward to seeing the imperial villas and learning more about the history of the area.

Today was a reminder of why I love Kyoto so much. The city's ability to preserve its cultural heritage while embracing modernity is truly remarkable. From the grandeur of Heian Shrine to the tranquility of Murinan Garden, every experience offered a glimpse into the soul of this enchanting city. And as I prepare for another day of exploration, I am filled with anticipation for the discoveries that await.

As I reflect on today's journey, I am reminded of a quote by Lafcadio Hearn:

To understand Japan, you must understand the heart of its people.

Each day here brings me closer to that understanding. Good night from Kyoto!

I am glad that my friends are here to share these experiences with me. I know that Maximilian and Astrid would love to see all of these places, and I am looking forward to sharing my photos and stories with them when I return to Hannover. I am also glad that I brought my camera, as I have been able to capture some amazing photos of the temples, gardens, and museums. I hope that these photos will inspire others to visit Kyoto and experience its beauty and culture for themselves.