A Cultural Journey Through Kyoto with My Husband

Kyoto's Hidden Gems: A Day of Discovery

Today was an absolute whirlwind of culture, cuisine, and captivating sights in Kyoto! From the bustling stalls of Nishiki Market to the tranquil gardens of Kenninji Temple and the enchanting streets of Gion, every moment was a feast for the senses. It’s days like these that make me fall even deeper in love with Japan, and I can't wait to share all the details with you. Get ready to be transported to the heart of Kyoto as I recount our adventures from morning till night.

Our day began with a short walk from TSUGU Kyoto Sanjo by THE SHARE HOTELS to Goichi Pizza for breakfast. I know, I know, pizza for breakfast in Japan sounds a bit odd, but Hans and I were both craving something familiar. Apparently, many Westerners also prefer to grab a pizza for breakfast here! Goichi Pizza was a delightful surprise. The crust was perfectly chewy, and the toppings tasted incredibly fresh. It was a great start to the day, providing us with the energy we needed for our explorations.


Discover the delicious fusion of Italian tradition and local flavors at Goichi Pizza in Kyoto - an unmissable dining experience!

After breakfast, we headed straight to Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s vibrant kitchen. The market was alive with activity, a kaleidoscope of colors, and a symphony of sounds. Vendors called out to customers, offering samples of their wares. The aroma of grilled seafood, pickled vegetables, and sweet treats filled the air. It was hard to know where to start! Hans, ever the adventurous one, was eager to try everything. We sampled some of the freshest seafood I’ve ever tasted, along with a variety of local pickles and sweets. I even tried a matcha-flavored Kit Kat, which was surprisingly delicious. The market was incredibly clean and well-organized, a testament to the Japanese attention to detail. We picked up a few souvenirs, including some local spices and a beautiful hand-painted fan.


Explore Kyoto's Nishiki Market, the vibrant hub of local culture and cuisine, offering a delightful array of traditional foods and unique souvenirs.

Kyoto is a city that whispers its secrets, revealing them slowly to those who take the time to listen.

Leaving the bustling market behind, we sought tranquility at Kenninji Temple, Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple. As we stepped through the temple gates, a sense of calm washed over us. The temple grounds were meticulously maintained, with perfectly raked gravel gardens and ancient trees providing shade. We wandered through the various halls and admired the intricate architecture. The Hatto Hall, with its stunning ceiling painting of twin dragons, was particularly impressive. The dragons, painted to commemorate the temple's 800th anniversary, seemed to watch over us as we gazed up in awe.


Explore the tranquility of Kenninji Temple, one of Kyoto's oldest Zen temples, featuring stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.

The gardens at Kenninji were a highlight, offering a serene space for contemplation. The Circle, Triangle, and Square Garden was especially intriguing, with its symbolic representation of the universe. We spent some time sitting on a bench, simply enjoying the peace and quiet, a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. It's amazing to think that this temple, founded in 1202, has stood the test of time, offering a sanctuary for reflection for centuries. It served as the headquarters of Rinzai Zen Buddhism in Kyoto, and you could really feel that history as you walked the grounds.

From Kenninji Temple, we made our way to Gion, Kyoto’s geisha district. As we strolled along Hanamikoji Street, the main thoroughfare of Gion, we were transported back in time. The traditional wooden machiya houses, with their narrow facades and intricate details, lined the street, creating a sense of old-world charm. Many of these houses have been converted into restaurants and teahouses, offering a glimpse into Kyoto’s refined culture. While in Gion, we were also fortunate enough to witness the Okasai Festival at Hirano Shrine, a traditional spring celebration in Kyoto. The festival featured a magnificent historical parade with participants dressed in Heian period royal costumes, adding a vibrant and colorful touch to our exploration of Gion.


Explore Gion, Kyoto's iconic geisha district, where tradition meets charm in a captivating blend of culture and history.

We explored the narrow side streets, hoping to catch a glimpse of a geiko or maiko on their way to an appointment. While we didn’t see any geisha, we did spot a few women dressed in traditional kimonos, adding to the atmosphere of the district. Gion is a place where the past and present intertwine, where ancient traditions are still alive and well. It's easy to get lost in the beauty and mystique of this enchanting district.

For lunch, we had reservations at Oryori Menami, a long-established izakaya known for its Kyoto cuisine. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We ordered the Obanzai platter, a selection of small dishes featuring seasonal ingredients. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. I especially enjoyed the Mibuna and Fried Tofu Stew, a local specialty. It was the perfect way to sample a variety of Kyoto flavors in one meal. Hans was particularly impressed with the delicate flavors and the attention to detail in each dish. The restaurant has been around since 1939, and you can tell they take pride in their traditions.


Experience authentic Obanzai cuisine in Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward at Oryori Menami - where tradition meets taste.

As evening approached, we prepared for a culinary highlight: dinner at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION. This restaurant is renowned for its Kobe beef, a delicacy known for its exquisite tenderness and unparalleled flavor. We were seated at a counter overlooking the teppanyaki grill, where our personal chef expertly prepared our meal. We opted for the Kobe filet, and it was worth every penny. The beef was cooked to perfection, melting in our mouths with each bite. The chef also prepared a selection of fresh vegetables, which complemented the beef perfectly.


Experience unparalleled flavors at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION in Kyoto - a must-visit for steak lovers seeking authenticity.

The entire experience was a feast for the senses, from the sizzling of the beef on the grill to the aroma of the perfectly cooked vegetables. The chef was engaging and entertaining, sharing stories about the Kobe beef and the restaurant’s history. It was a truly memorable dining experience, one that I will cherish for years to come. Mouriya Gion is the first location outside of Kobe, and it’s clear they maintain the same high standards as the original.

To cap off our incredible day, we decided to experience Kyoto's nightlife at Bar Fishbowl. This unique bar is known for its extensive selection of Japanese spirits and creative cocktails. The owner, Jesse, is a friendly and knowledgeable bartender who made us feel right at home. The bar had a fun and lively atmosphere, and we enjoyed chatting with other travelers and locals.


Discover Kyoto's nightlife at Bar Fishbowl, a cocktail haven with stunning views and expertly crafted drinks in the heart of the city.

The Fishbowl is known to have over 50 variants of whiskey, which is a selection you wouldn't really find in other bars in the country! The cocktails served here are very creative with fun names like 'Salty Bad Dog' , 'Time Extension' and 'Laser Beam'. The decor of Fishbowl is very trendy and modern considering the crowd it attracts and the atmosphere is charged with energy. Since it is located in a small room on the 7th floor of the tower, the number of seats are quite limited and coming in early is therefore advisable. The staff, unlike most other nightspots in Japan, can speak good English. A great meeting point for locals and travellers, Fishbowl is one of the moderately priced lounges in the heart of Kyoto.

As I sit here reflecting on our day, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the magic of Kyoto. From the bustling markets to the tranquil temples and the exquisite cuisine, every moment was a treasure. I am already looking forward to tomorrow’s adventures, which include visits to Higashiyama Jisho-ji, Nanzen-ji, and the Kyoto Railway Museum. And of course, we'll be sampling more of Kyoto's culinary delights, including dinner at Nishikawa. Until then, kampai!

Tomorrow, we are planning on seeing Higashiyama Jisho-ji, Nanzen-ji, and the Kyoto Railway Museum. I am also planning on doing some shopping at mina Kyoto.