Exploring Kyoto: A Cultural Adventure with Friends

Whispers of the Mountain Gods

Today marked the culmination of our Kyoto adventure, a day dedicated to seeking serenity and spiritual enrichment amidst the mountains north of the city. The crisp mountain air, a welcome change from the bustling city, invigorated our senses as we prepared for a day of exploration with my friends. We ventured to Kifune Shrine and Kurama Temple, two destinations that promised not only scenic beauty but also a deep dive into Japan's rich spiritual heritage. It was a fitting end to our journey, a moment to reflect on all we had experienced and to carry the tranquility of these sacred places back home to Hannover.


Discover the serene beauty of Kifune Shrine, a hidden gem in Kyoto where spirituality meets nature amidst lush landscapes.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Kikunoi Roan. The delicate flavors and artful presentation were a delightful start to our final day in Kyoto. I savored every bite, knowing I would soon miss the exquisite cuisine of Japan. The amuse of tofu, Maitake mushroom and Shiitake mushroom was a delicate start, followed by the flavorful Hassun appetizers. The tenderness of the baby tuna in egg yolk sauce was a delight, and the steamed course of Guji with millet was delicious.

With renewed energy, we set off for Kifune Shrine. Nestled in a serene, forested valley, the shrine exuded an aura of tranquility. The weather was mild, a perfect day for exploring the outdoors. The shrine is dedicated to the god of water, Takaokami-no-kami, and is believed to be the protector of those at sea. As we walked along the lantern-lined path, the sound of the flowing river created a soothing melody. I could see why this place was considered sacred.

The mountains are fountains of men as well as of rivers, of glaciers as well as of fertile soil. The great poets, philosophers, prophets, able men whose thoughts and deeds have moved the world, have all come from the mountains.

According to legend, the goddess Tamayori-hime traveled by yellow boat from Osaka Bay up the river to Kifune. The shrine was built where her journey ended. It is a tradition to offer horses to the shrine when praying for certain weather. A black horse was offered when praying for rain, and a white horse for clear skies. Now, statues of horses stand near the main hall.

We took part in the unique tradition of *omikuji*, fortune telling. Instead of simply drawing a paper slip, we had to dip it into the water to reveal the message. It was a fun and insightful experience, adding a touch of mystique to our visit. I am excited to bring back this experience to share with Maximilian and Astrid.

After Kifune Shrine, we made our way to Kuramadera Temple, located on Mount Kurama. The mountain is known for its spiritual energy and breathtaking natural beauty. We had the option of taking a cable car, but we decided to hike up the mountain, immersing ourselves in the verdant forest. The air was crisp and clean, and the scent of cedar filled our lungs. It was a refreshing change from the city.


Experience the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Kuramadera Temple in Kyoto, a perfect blend of nature, history, and tranquility.

Along the way, we spotted statues of *tengu*, long-nosed creatures believed to be the guardians of the mountain. Legend says that Minamoto no Yoshitsune, a famous samurai, trained in swordsmanship with the *tengu* on Mount Kurama. The mountain is also believed to be the birthplace of Reiki, a type of energy therapy that utilizes spiritual elements. I found the connection to nature and spirituality deeply moving.

Kuramadera Temple was founded in 770 by a disciple of Jianzhen. According to legend, the monk had a vision that Mount Kurama possessed great spiritual power. He was guided by a white horse to climb the mountain and establish a temple to channel this energy. Over the centuries, the temple has been rebuilt several times after devastating fires. Each time, the treasures and Buddhist statues were rescued. In 1949, Kurama-dera became independent and founded its own school of Buddhism, Kurama-kokyo. This new doctrine blends elements of Buddhism, Shintoism, and local beliefs linked to mountain spirits.

We reached the main hall of Kuramadera Temple, where we were rewarded with a stunning view of the surrounding mountains. The temple worships Sonten, a trinity composed of Maōson, Bishamonten, and Senjū Kannon. These deities represent power, light, and love. The temple has a mystical aura, attracting many practitioners in search of spirituality. I felt a sense of peace and connection as I stood there, taking in the breathtaking scenery.

Before heading back, we stopped for lunch at Gion Nanba. This Michelin-starred restaurant offered a delightful kaiseki experience. The dishes were made with seasonal ingredients and presented with artistic flair. I particularly enjoyed the sea bream rice and the watermelon with strawberry dessert. It was a fitting culinary experience to celebrate our last day in Kyoto.


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

In the evening, we decided to visit Bar Cordon Noir for a farewell drink. This cozy bar had a wide selection of Japanese whisky. I tried a Kirin Fuji Gotemba Single Grain Blender's Choice, while my friends sampled other local spirits. The bartender was friendly and accommodating, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect way to reminisce about our trip and toast to future adventures.


Discover Bar Cordon Noir, a vibrant bar in Kyoto offering exquisite cocktails, a cozy atmosphere, and a taste of the city's nightlife.

As our trip draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared here in Kyoto. From the serene temples to the bustling markets, every moment has been a treasure. I am grateful for the opportunity to have explored this beautiful city with my friends, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I also can't wait to share these adventures with Maximilian and Astrid. Though I will miss the enchanting atmosphere of Kyoto, I am also eager to return home to my family and share my stories and experiences with them.

Tomorrow, we will begin our journey back to Hannover, carrying with us the spirit of Kyoto. The blend of ancient traditions and modern life, the stunning landscapes, and the exquisite cuisine have left an indelible mark on my soul. I am already looking forward to our next adventure, wherever it may take us.

This journey has been more than just a vacation; it has been a spiritual awakening, a chance to reconnect with myself and the world around me. As I prepare to leave, I carry with me the lessons I have learned, the memories I have made, and the promise to continue exploring the world with an open heart and a curious mind. Kyoto, thank you for the magic.

The weather in Kyoto on March 12, 2025, was mild, with temperatures around 65°F (18°C) during the day and 47°F (8°C) at night. The weather forecast for Mount Kurama was light rain in the afternoon and very mild temperatures. The average sunshine in Kurama during March is 6.4 hours, with the sun rising around 5:45 AM and setting around 6:18 PM. The humidity was around 78%.