Exploring the Cultural Tapestry of Kyoto with My Spouse

A Journey Through Time and Culture

Today marked the beginning of our Kyoto adventure, and what a start it has been! Maximilian and I dove headfirst into the city's vibrant blend of history and modern culture. From the majestic Nijō Castle to the colorful Kyoto International Manga Museum, and the tantalizing tastes of local cuisine, it was a day filled with unforgettable experiences. I'm so excited to share all the details with you!

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Kizahashi, a restaurant I picked for its reputation for serving authentic Kyoto cuisine. The reviews I had read spoke of delicate flavors and beautiful presentation, and it certainly didn't disappoint. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. Maximilian, who usually prefers a quick coffee and pastry, was surprisingly taken by the traditional Japanese breakfast set. I think this trip might turn him into a convert! I am so glad that we were able to have this moment together, as it is not always the case when we are at home.

Our first stop was Nijō Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as the Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa shoguns. Stepping through the imposing gates felt like stepping back in time. The castle is a masterpiece of architecture, with its intricate carvings, expansive gardens, and the famous 'nightingale floors' designed to chirp underfoot to alert the occupants to any intruders. Maximilian, with his engineering mind, was particularly fascinated by the construction techniques and the defensive features of the castle.

We spent hours wandering through the Ninomaru Palace, marveling at the opulent rooms where the shogun received guests and conducted affairs of state. The sheer scale of the place was impressive, and I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like within those walls centuries ago. It was interesting to learn that the castle was built in 1603 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, and later expanded by his grandson Iemitsu. The castle played a significant role in Japanese history, including the declaration by Tokugawa Yoshinobu in 1867, returning authority to the Imperial Court. It's amazing to think that we were walking the same halls where such pivotal events took place.

Kyoto is a city where history and modernity dance together in perfect harmony, creating an experience that is both enriching and deeply moving.

After immersing ourselves in history, we decided to switch gears and explore a more contemporary aspect of Japanese culture: manga. We made our way to the Kyoto International Manga Museum, housed in a charming former elementary school. The museum is a manga lover's paradise, with shelves upon shelves of comics stretching as far as the eye can see.

I was in heaven! I've always been a fan of manga, ever since I picked up my first copy of *Sailor Moon* as a teenager back in Worcester. The museum had everything from classic series to contemporary works, and even a section dedicated to international manga. Maximilian, who isn't as familiar with the genre, was intrigued by the artistry and storytelling techniques on display. We spent a good couple of hours browsing the collection, reading excerpts, and soaking up the atmosphere. I even considered participating in one of the manga workshops, where you can learn inking techniques from the pros! Maybe tomorrow.

It was fascinating to learn about the history of manga and its impact on Japanese culture. The museum has a collection of approximately 300,000 manga materials, with about 50,000 available for visitors to read. The building itself was once an elementary school, adding to the unique charm of the museum. They also have workshops for groups and individuals, which is something I would be interested in trying.

By late afternoon, our stomachs were rumbling, so we headed to Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street, a bustling arcade filled with shops and restaurants. It was the perfect place to pick up some souvenirs and sample local street food. The vibrant atmosphere and the mix of traditional and modern stores was captivating. We wandered through the arcade, admiring the colorful displays and soaking up the lively energy. It was fun to see so many locals and tourists alike enjoying the atmosphere.

For lunch, we stopped at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, a small, family-run restaurant known for its teppanyaki and okonomiyaki. The owners were incredibly friendly and welcoming, and the food was absolutely delicious. We ordered a selection of dishes, including the wagyu steak and the vegan okonomiyaki. Everything was cooked to perfection right in front of us, and the flavors were incredible.

I had read many reviews about Teppan Tavern Tenamonya and was excited to try it. The restaurant is run by a husband and wife team, and they are known for their hospitality and delicious food. The vegan options are also highly recommended, which was great for me. Maximilian enjoyed the wagyu steak, and I loved the vegan okonomiyaki. The restaurant is small, so reservations are recommended.

As evening approached, we made our way to Gion, Kyoto's geisha district, for dinner at Gion Mikaku. This long-standing wagyu specialty restaurant is located along the Shirakawa River, offering stunning views and exquisite cuisine. We indulged in a multi-course meal featuring the finest cuts of Tajima female cattle, prepared by skilled chefs on the teppan. The steak was tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, and the seasonal views of the Shirakawa River added to the magical ambiance.

Gion Mikaku has a reputation for serving high-quality Wagyu beef, and it certainly lived up to its expectations. The restaurant has a calm and traditional Japanese atmosphere, making it perfect for special occasions. They offer counter seats where you can watch the chefs at work, as well as private rooms for a more intimate dining experience. They are known for using unbred Tajima female cattle, which are prepared using cooking methods that maximize the natural flavors of the ingredients.

The day was long, but every moment was worth it. As we walked back to The Hiramatsu Kyoto, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Kyoto is a city that truly captivates the senses and nourishes the soul. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, which include visits to Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Ryoan-ji Temple. And perhaps a drink at L'Escamoteur in the evening! I can't wait to see what other treasures this amazing city has in store for us. Good night from Kyoto!

P.S. I almost forgot! With all the excitement, I nearly left my travel journal at the Manga Museum. Maximilian, ever the observant one, noticed it just as we were leaving. Talk about a close call! I would have been devastated to lose all my notes and memories from this trip. Guess I need to be more careful! Also, I'm glad I packed layers, as the temperature dropped in the evening. A warm coat and scarf were definitely essential.

I also found out that there are a few events happening in Kyoto this month, including the Setsubun Festival at Heian Shrine and the Baika Sai (Plum Blossom Festival) at Kitano Tenman-gu Shrine. I'll have to see if I can squeeze one of those into our itinerary.


Experience the grandeur of Nijō Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history, architecture, and nature intertwine in Kyoto's cultural heart.


Explore the rich world of Japanese comics at Kyoto International Manga Museum, a cultural gem in Kyoto offering extensive manga collections and engaging exhibitions.


Explore Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street, a vibrant hub of traditional crafts, delicious street food, and unique shopping experiences in the heart of Kyoto.


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


Discover Gion Mikaku, where exceptional steak meets authentic Japanese culture in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district.


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