A Cultural Journey Through Kyoto with My Husband

Whispers of the Gods in Kyoto's Northern Sanctuaries

Today, Hans and I ventured into the serene northern reaches of Kyoto, a day dedicated to exploring some of the city's most beautiful and spiritually significant sites. It was a journey that combined the tranquility of ancient shrines with the vibrant flavors of Kyoto's culinary scene, creating a perfect harmony of experiences.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Khaos Spice Diner. It might seem a bit unusual to start a day of traditional Japanese exploration with such a vibrant and globally-inspired meal, but sometimes a little spice is exactly what you need to kickstart an adventure. I opted for one of their delicious breakfast burritos, while Hans enjoyed a more traditional German-style breakfast platter. Fueled and ready, we set off to our first destination: Shimogamo Shrine.


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

Sometimes the greatest journeys are those that lead us back to ourselves.

Explore the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Shimogamo Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, Japan.

Shimogamo Shrine, or Kamomioya Shrine as it's officially known, is one of Kyoto's oldest and most important Shinto shrines. As we approached, I was immediately struck by the sense of peace that permeated the air. The shrine is nestled within the Tadasu no Mori forest, a primeval woodland that feels worlds away from the bustling city. The towering trees, some of which are hundreds of years old, create a canopy that filters the sunlight, casting dappled shadows on the moss-covered ground. We wandered through the serene pathways, taking in the fresh, earthy scent of the forest. It's easy to see why this place is considered sacred; the natural beauty is simply breathtaking.

The shrine itself is a complex of beautifully crafted wooden buildings, painted in vibrant reds and greens. We took our time exploring the various halls and courtyards, admiring the intricate details of the architecture and the meticulous care that has been taken to preserve this historical treasure. We learned that Shimogamo Shrine is dedicated to the gods of Kyoto's development, and it plays a vital role in many of the city's traditional ceremonies and festivals. I read that the Yabusame Shinji, a captivating horseback archery display, is held annually at Shimogamo Shrine as part of the Aoi Matsuri celebrations, which is held on May 15th. I also learned about the Mitarashi Festival, held in July, where participants wade through the cool spring water to guarantee their health for the year. Unfortunately, we just missed the Nagashi-bina, a doll-floating ritual that took place on March 3rd, associated with the Doll Festival, where small dolls are placed on boats made of straw and floated down the Mitarashi River to pray for the health of children.

After soaking in the tranquility of Shimogamo Shrine, we made our way to Kibune Shrine, nestled in the mountains north of Kyoto. The journey itself was an adventure, taking us through winding roads and picturesque valleys. As we arrived, the air grew noticeably cooler and crisper, a welcome change from the city's humidity. Kibune Shrine is dedicated to the god of water and is renowned for its stunning natural setting. The shrine is built alongside the Kibune River, and the sound of the rushing water adds to the sense of serenity.


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

The most striking feature of Kibune Shrine is undoubtedly its iconic stone steps, which are lined with vibrant red lanterns. The lanterns create a magical atmosphere, especially in the evening when they are lit. We climbed the steps slowly, pausing to admire the view and take photos. At the top, we reached the main hall of the shrine, where we offered a prayer for good fortune and health. I found out that the Kifune Festival is held annually on June 1st, with multiple happenings throughout the day. Also, the annual Ohitaki Fire Festival is held on November 7th, which uses its spiritual powers to banish bad spirits and cleanse impurities.

For lunch, we had made reservations at Jiki Miyazawa, a renowned restaurant known for its exquisite *shojin ryori*, or Buddhist vegetarian cuisine. The restaurant is located in a traditional wooden building, and the atmosphere is one of understated elegance. Each dish was a work of art, carefully prepared with seasonal ingredients and presented with impeccable attention to detail. The flavors were subtle yet complex, and I was amazed at how satisfying a vegetarian meal could be. It was a culinary experience that perfectly complemented the spiritual nature of our day.


Indulge in an authentic Kaiseki dining experience at Jiki Miyazawa, where seasonal flavors meet exquisite presentation in the heart of Kyoto.

Our final stop of the day was Kurama-dera Temple, located high on Mount Kurama. To reach the temple, we took a scenic cable car ride followed by a steep hike through the forest. The hike was challenging but rewarding, as the views from the top of the mountain were simply spectacular. Kurama-dera is a unique temple with a fascinating history. It was founded in the 8th century and has been a center of esoteric Buddhism for centuries. The temple is also said to be a powerful spiritual site, with many visitors reporting feeling a sense of energy and healing.


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

As we explored the temple complex, we were struck by the blend of Buddhist and Shinto influences. The main hall of the temple is a beautiful wooden structure with a distinctive curved roof. Inside, we found intricate statues and religious artifacts. We also visited the Konpon Chudo Hall, which is said to be built on a powerful energy vortex. I read that Uesaku-Sai is a traditional ceremony at Kuramadera Temple held annually during May's full moon, where visitors carry lotus-shaped candles while offering silent prayers in a solemn atmosphere. The Fire Festival of Kurama Temple is held on the evening of October 22nd each year, where the whole of Kurama town is lit up by torch fire.

After a day of exploring sacred sites and indulging in exquisite cuisine, we decided to unwind with a nightcap at Bar K6. This renowned bar in Kyoto is loved by bar hoppers across Japan and is known for its master bartenders and exquisite cocktails. The bar offers a range of unique drinks, including Kyoto dry gin gin and tonics and innovative fruit cocktails. The welcoming staff and sophisticated atmosphere made it the perfect place to reflect on our day.


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

As we sipped our drinks, we talked about the incredible experiences we had shared. From the serene forests of Shimogamo Shrine to the stunning mountain views from Kurama-dera Temple, today had been a journey of both physical and spiritual exploration. We felt grateful for the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the rich culture and natural beauty of Kyoto, and we knew that these memories would stay with us long after we returned to Berlin.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, with its thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding up a mountainside. We'll also explore the Saga Toriimoto Town-scape Archive Hall and the Katsura Imperial Villa. I'm particularly excited about Fushimi Inari; the photos I've seen are absolutely breathtaking, and I can't wait to experience it firsthand. And of course, we'll be sure to find some delicious local cuisine to sample along the way.

As I write this, I'm already looking forward to another day of adventure in this amazing city. Kyoto has a way of captivating the soul, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Good night from Japan!