Exploring the Cultural Tapestry of Kyoto with My Spouse

Whispers of Ancient Kyoto

Today, Kyoto unfolded before me like a beautifully preserved scroll, revealing layers of history, spirituality, and tantalizing flavors. Maximilian and I set out to explore some of the city's most iconic landmarks, immersing ourselves in the essence of old Japan. It was a day filled with wonder, reflection, and a deep appreciation for the cultural tapestry that Kyoto so effortlessly weaves.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hafuu. The restaurant’s reputation for serving exquisite meat dishes preceded it, and I was eager to experience it firsthand. Opting for one of their famed lunch specials, Maximilian and I savored every bite of the high-quality, juicy beef. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration, setting us up with the energy we'd need to tackle the slopes of Higashiyama.


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

From Hafuu, we made our way to Kiyomizu-dera, a temple that has stood watch over Kyoto for centuries. As we approached, the iconic vermilion Niomon Gate stood majestically, flanked by imposing statues of Buddhist guardian kings. The temple's history dates back to 778, and you could feel the weight of those years with every step.


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

The main hall, a designated National Treasure, was breathtaking. The famed wooden stage jutted out, offering panoramic views of the city nestled below. Even in late February, the landscape hinted at the vibrant colors to come in spring. I tried to imagine the view during cherry blossom season, a sea of pink stretching as far as the eye can see. It's no wonder this spot is so beloved.

Exploring the temple grounds, we found ourselves drawn to the Otowa Waterfall. Three separate streams of water cascaded down, each said to bestow a different blessing: longevity, success in studies, and a fortunate love life. We opted to drink from the stream promising good health, hoping to safeguard our adventures for many years to come. Of course, we avoided drinking from all three streams, not wanting to appear too greedy!

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its stunning landmarks, but in the quiet moments of reflection found within its ancient spaces.

Leaving Kiyomizu-dera, we meandered down the charming streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka. These sloping, stone-paved lanes were lined with traditional wooden storefronts, each offering a glimpse into Kyoto's past. Souvenir shops overflowed with handcrafted treasures – delicate ceramics, intricate paper crafts, and colorful textiles. I couldn't resist picking up a few small trinkets to remind me of our time here.


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.

As we strolled, we couldn't help but notice the number of people dressed in traditional kimonos. It added a layer of authenticity to the experience, making it feel as though we had stepped back in time. I even spotted a few tourists in Geisha attire, posing for photos against the picturesque backdrop.

The myth surrounding Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka is quite amusing – it's said that if you fall on either of these streets, you'll die in two or three years! Thankfully, we managed to navigate the slopes without any mishaps. The streets were bustling with activity, and I could easily imagine what Kyoto might have looked like centuries ago.

Lunchtime found us at Khaos Spice Diner, a quirky restaurant tucked away in the Teramachi shopping arcade. After all that walking, we were ready for something with a bit of a kick. The diner's interior was eclectic, with film posters adorning the walls and reggae music playing in the background. It was a surprising contrast to the traditional atmosphere we had been immersed in all morning.


Discover authentic Japanese curry at Khaos Spice Diner in Kyoto – a flavorful experience awaits you!

I decided to go for the Khaos pork keema curry, while Maximilian chose the chicken curry. Both were incredibly flavorful, with a unique blend of Indian spices and Japanese dashi. The generous serving of pickles on the side added a welcome burst of brightness to each mouthful. It was a comforting and satisfying meal that perfectly hit the spot.

In the late afternoon, we decided to indulge in a bit of shopping at Takashimaya Kyoto S.C.. This department store offered a fascinating mix of traditional crafts and modern goods. We explored the art gallery, admiring the intricate works on display, and browsed the arts and crafts salon, marveling at the skill of the local artisans.


Explore Takashimaya Kyoto S.C. for an unforgettable shopping experience, blending tradition and modernity in the heart of Kyoto.

I was particularly impressed by the selection of kitchenware. The handcrafted knives and cooking utensils were true works of art, blending practicality with beauty. I made a mental note to return later in the week to pick up a special souvenir for my kitchen back in Berlin.

As evening approached, we prepared ourselves for a culinary experience at Chihana. This restaurant, with its Michelin stars, promised an unforgettable kaiseki dinner. Nestled in a small alley near Yasaka Shrine, Chihana exuded an air of understated elegance.


Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Chihana in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district - where tradition meets culinary artistry.

From the moment we stepped inside, we were transported to a world of culinary artistry. The omakase menu was a symphony of flavors and textures, each dish a testament to Chef Nagata's skill and creativity. Seasonal fruits were paired with delicate seafood, while the soup dish represented the four seasons of Japan.

The white fish course was particularly memorable, featuring fish sourced from Setouchi. The combination of classic Japanese cuisine with sophisticated urban flair was truly extraordinary. The wine, mainly from France, paired perfectly with each course, enhancing the flavors and adding to the overall experience.

The dinnerware itself was a work of art, a collection of rare and precious pieces such as Koimari and Arita-ware. It was clear that every detail at Chihana had been carefully considered, from the ingredients to the presentation to the ambiance.

As we savored the final course, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible day we had experienced. From the ancient temples to the bustling shopping streets to the exquisite cuisine, Kyoto had captivated us with its beauty and charm.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Gion, Yasaka Shrine, and Hanamikoji Street. I'm particularly excited about the prospect of wandering through Gion, hoping to catch a glimpse of a geiko gracefully making her way to an engagement. We're also planning to end the day with a drink at the Kyoto Star Bar, a spot I've heard great things about. I'm sure it will be another day filled with unforgettable experiences.

Before heading back to our hotel, The Hiramatsu Kyoto, we took a leisurely stroll through the streets, soaking in the city's nighttime atmosphere. The lanterns glowed softly, casting a warm light on the traditional buildings. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience the elegance of Kyoto at The Hiramatsu Kyoto, where modern comfort meets traditional charm, just steps from cultural attractions.

Tonight, as I write this entry, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience Kyoto's magic. It's a city that truly nourishes the soul, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

I think I will sleep well tonight. Until tomorrow!