Exploring Kyoto: A Cultural Adventure with Friends

Kyoto's Cultural Tapestry: A Day of Discovery

Today was a deep dive into the heart of Kyoto, a day brimming with cultural experiences that painted a vivid picture of this captivating city. From the vermilion pathways of Fushimi Inari Taisha to the aromatic halls of a sake museum, and finally, the sweeping vistas from Nidec Kyoto Tower, it was a day of contrasts and connections, each moment adding another layer to my understanding of Japan.

Our day began early, fuelled by a hearty breakfast at The Cellar Kyoto. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, while some of my friends chose more familiar Western options. It was a charming start, setting the tone for a day of exploration.

Our first stop was the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha. The sheer volume of vermilion torii gates snaking up the mountainside was breathtaking. I've seen countless photos, but nothing truly prepares you for the real thing. The crisp morning air, the scent of incense, and the rhythmic crunch of gravel underfoot created an almost meditative atmosphere.


Explore the enchanting Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto's iconic Shinto shrine famous for its thousands of vibrant torii gates and breathtaking mountain trails.

Maximilian and I decided to challenge ourselves and hike to the summit. The path wound its way through seemingly endless tunnels of gates, each one a donation from a person or company seeking good fortune. The inscriptions, a testament to faith and prosperity, were fascinating to observe. We passed countless stone foxes, the messengers of Inari, each with a unique expression and holding a symbolic item – a key, a scroll, or a ball.

The journey through Fushimi Inari's vermilion gates is a testament to the enduring power of faith and the captivating beauty of Japanese culture.

The climb was invigorating, and as we ascended, the crowds thinned, allowing for moments of quiet contemplation. I found myself reflecting on the history of this place, imagining the countless pilgrims who had walked this path before me. The views from the Yotsutsuji intersection were stunning, offering a panoramic vista of Kyoto sprawling below. Though we didn't find an epic view at the peak of Mount Inari, it was a great place for self-reflection.

After descending from Fushimi Inari, we were ready for a change of pace. We took a short train ride to Fushimi, known for its sake breweries, and made our way to the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum. The museum is housed in a beautifully preserved Meiji-era brewery, and the moment we stepped inside, we were enveloped in the rich aroma of fermenting rice.


Explore the rich heritage and craftsmanship of sake at Gekkeikan Ōkura Sake Museum, a cultural gem in Kyoto's historic Fushimi Ward.

The museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the history and production of sake. Exhibits showcased traditional brewing tools, explained the different stages of the brewing process, and highlighted the significance of sake in Japanese culture. I learned about the importance of rice quality, water purity, and the skill of the master brewers in creating this iconic beverage.

Of course, no visit to a sake museum would be complete without a tasting! Our admission included samples of three different types of Gekkeikan sake. I appreciated the opportunity to compare the flavors and aromas, from the crisp and dry to the rich and sweet. We also learned about the proper way to serve and savor sake, enhancing the overall experience.

Astrid would have loved the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum. I must remember to bring her here when she's older. I even picked up a bottle of Yamadanishiki Tokubetsu Junmai, as Gekkeikan released it today. I'm eager to bring it back to Hannover to share with Maximilian's parents.

For lunch, we enjoyed a delightful meal at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya. This small, family-run restaurant is known for its teppanyaki-style cooking and its warm, welcoming atmosphere. The vegan options were amazing! The vegan set course meal is a must try. The restaurant is run by a husband and wife team, Hideki and Naoko. They manage all aspects and operations of the restaurant. The restaurant only has 14 seats, so reservations are required and tough to get. They are only accepted 14 days in advance.


Experience authentic teppanyaki at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, Kyoto's premier destination for Japanese cuisine in a lively izakaya setting.

In the late afternoon, we decided to embrace the modern side of Kyoto with a visit to Kyoto Tower. I must admit, after a day of exploring traditional sites, the tower felt a bit out of place, but the promise of panoramic views was too tempting to resist.


Discover breathtaking views and unique souvenirs at Nidec Kyoto Tower, the iconic landmark that embodies Kyoto's rich cultural heritage.

As the elevator whisked us to the top, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. Stepping out onto the observation deck, I was immediately struck by the breathtaking vista. The entire city of Kyoto lay before us, a sprawling tapestry of temples, shrines, and modern buildings, all set against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains.

We spent a good hour up there, pointing out landmarks, snapping photos, and simply soaking in the beauty of the city. It was fascinating to see how the traditional and modern elements of Kyoto coexisted, creating a unique and dynamic urban landscape. The tower is located right across Kyoto Station, so it was easy to find.

Before dinner, we stopped by musubi -kyoto-, a charming little shop specializing in musubi, a popular Hawaiian snack consisting of rice and various fillings wrapped in nori seaweed. I opted for the classic spam musubi, a guilty pleasure that always reminds me of my travels in Hawaii. I can see why the locals love it!


Discover the beauty of traditional kimonos and fashion accessories at Musubi, a gem in the heart of Kyoto’s cultural landscape.

Our final stop of the day was French Dining Top of Kyoto for dinner, located in the Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto. This revolving restaurant offered stunning 360-degree views of the city. The elegant interior, adorned with traditional Japanese paper, created a unique and sophisticated atmosphere. The food was exquisite, a fusion of French and Japanese flavors that delighted the palate. The Wagyu steak was a highlight, perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. The service was impeccable, with attentive staff providing detailed explanations of each dish.


Discover the exquisite flavors of French cuisine at French Dining Top of Kyoto – where culinary artistry meets stunning views.

As the restaurant slowly rotated, I savored the final moments of the day, reflecting on the incredible experiences I had shared with my friends. From the spiritual pathways of Fushimi Inari to the historical depths of the sake museum and the modern heights of Kyoto Tower, it was a day that had truly captured the essence of this remarkable city.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Shugakuin Imperial Villa, Kyoto International Manga Museum, and Kodaiji Temple. I'm particularly excited about the Manga Museum, as I've heard it's a treasure trove of Japanese comic art. I'm also looking forward to exploring Kodaiji Temple, known for its beautiful gardens and serene atmosphere. Before that, we'll have breakfast at Anzukko, lunch at Arancino Kyoto, and dinner at Nakamura. We might even stop by Concrete Bar for a drink!

As I write this, I'm already anticipating another day of discovery, eager to uncover more of Kyoto's hidden gems and immerse myself in its rich cultural heritage. I feel so fortunate to be able to experience this with my friends.

I should also remember to buy an umbrella for unexpected rain and a portable phone charger. I keep forgetting these trip essentials! Good thing I can buy them here in Kyoto. I'll make sure to get them tomorrow. Good night!