Exploring the Cultural Tapestry of Kyoto with My Spouse

A Royal Day in Kyoto

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the regal history and natural beauty of Kyoto. Maximilian and I set out to explore the Kyoto Imperial Palace and its surrounding gardens, followed by a culinary journey through some of the city's finest restaurants. It was a day of contrasts, from the solemnity of the palace to the vibrant flavors of Kyoto cuisine, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi. I was excited to try this place given its location along the Takase River. The atmosphere was relaxed, and perfect for a special occasion. Maximilian and I both enjoyed the best steak we have ever had there. Yoshi and the team were exceptional!


Experience Kyoto's vibrant food scene with authentic yakiniku at Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi, where every bite tells a delicious story.

After our delightful breakfast, Maximilian and I headed towards the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The palace, once the residence of the Emperor of Japan, is now open to the public and offers a glimpse into the lives of the imperial family. As we approached the main gate, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the history contained within those walls. It was particularly special to be visiting during the special spring opening, timed to coincide with the plum blossoms. This event, called Introduction to Imperial Court Culture, was exhibiting paintings and other works for the first time! I made sure to pack my camera today, and I'm glad I did, because it was a sight to behold.


Explore the historical elegance and natural beauty of Kyoto Imperial Palace, a cultural landmark reflecting Japan's royal history.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not only in its historical landmarks but also in its ability to blend tradition with the simple joys of everyday life.

The palace grounds were expansive, with meticulously maintained gardens and traditional architecture. We wandered through the various halls and courtyards, imagining what life must have been like for the emperors and empresses who once called this place home. The intricate details of the buildings, from the ornate carvings to the delicate paintings, were a testament to the skill and artistry of Japanese craftsmen.

Adjacent to the Imperial Palace is the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a vast green space that provides a welcome respite from the bustling city. Maximilian and I strolled along the garden paths, admiring the carefully manicured lawns, serene ponds, and vibrant flowerbeds. Despite it still being February, the plum blossoms were starting to bloom, adding a touch of color to the landscape. I was excited to see that there was a wide variety of cherry blossoms, magnolias, peach trees and camellias in bloom, which created a colorful spectacle of flowers.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a historic park offering stunning landscapes and a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.

For lunch, we had reservations at Tategami, a restaurant known for its authentic Kyoto cuisine. The restaurant exuded a sense of calm and tradition, and we were shown to a private room where we could relax and enjoy our meal. We decided to go for the Kaiseki Course, which featured seasonal delicacies that change monthly. The dishes were not only delicious but also visually stunning, showcasing the beauty of seas. It was an experience that engaged all five senses, from the aroma of the food to the texture and taste of each ingredient. The service was impeccable, making us feel like honored guests.


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

As the sun began to set, we made our way to THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO for dinner. This restaurant, set in a beautifully restored traditional building, offered a unique dining experience that blended Italian cuisine with Japanese aesthetics. We wandered through the lush gardens before being seated in a cozy dining room. The ambiance was magical, with soft lighting and elegant décor creating a romantic atmosphere. Maximilian and I savored each course, marveling at the innovative flavors and artistic presentation. It was the perfect end to a day filled with cultural exploration and culinary delights.


Discover the perfect blend of Italian culinary artistry and traditional Japanese ambiance at The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto.

After dinner, we decided to experience Kyoto's nightlife at Bar K6. This intimate bar was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. The bartender was a master of his craft, creating innovative cocktails using local ingredients. Maximilian and I sipped our drinks, enjoying the cozy atmosphere and the company of fellow travelers. It was a great way to end the day.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Bar K6, where traditional Japanese drinks meet modern bar culture in a cozy setting.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit the Heian Shrine and Shorenin Temple, continuing our exploration of Kyoto's rich cultural heritage. I'm particularly excited about seeing the Heian Shrine, as I've heard it has a beautiful garden with various plants that bloom in different seasons. I am also excited to see the Plum Blossom Festival at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, which I am excited to visit after reading about it. I am sure this will be another day full of exploration and discovery. I am also hoping we get to do some shopping at the Daimaru Kyoto Store.

As I sit here writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Kyoto. Every day brings new adventures and discoveries, and I'm excited to see what tomorrow holds. This trip with Maximilian has been nothing short of magical, and I'm cherishing every moment.

Kyoto has a number of Setsubun Festivals in early February, and I'm sad we missed them. The Setsubun Festival at Yasaka Shrine, the Hatsuuma Festival at Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the Plum Blossom Festival at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine sound particularly interesting, and I'll make sure to visit them if I'm in Kyoto at that time of year again.

And with that, another wonderful day comes to an end. Good night from Kyoto!

For those planning a visit to Kyoto during the Sakura season, which typically starts towards the end of March and lasts until the first week of April, I highly recommend visiting spots like Maruyama Park, Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, and Philosopher's Path.

I can't wait to see what tomorrow holds for us!