A Cultural Journey Through Kyoto with My Husband

Kyoto's Royal and Spiritual Embrace

Today was a day of gentle exploration, a blend of historical grandeur and serene natural beauty that only Kyoto can offer. It felt like stepping back in time and then drifting into a peaceful dream, a perfect balance for a curious traveler like me. I’m always eager to soak in the local culture, and today was a feast for the senses, especially with Hans by my side.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Arash's Kitchen. It was a cozy start, fueling us up for a day of exploration. I had read great reviews about their Persian naan, so I had to try it. It was a unique and tasty way to begin our Kyoto adventure. After breakfast, we made our way to the Kyoto Imperial Palace.


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

Kyoto Imperial Palace: A Step Back in Time

The Kyoto Imperial Palace was breathtaking. It was a clear, sunny morning, perfect for wandering the expansive grounds. The palace, with its elegant architecture and meticulously maintained gardens, whispered tales of emperors and courtly life. As someone who loves history and architecture, I was in my element, imagining the ceremonies and events that once unfolded within these walls. Hans, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the intricate construction techniques.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Walking through the Shishinden, the main ceremonial hall, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. The sheer scale of the building and the understated beauty of the surrounding gardens were captivating. I tried to picture the enthronement ceremonies that had taken place here, the weight of history pressing down in the most wonderful way. The palace grounds were expansive, and we spent a good couple of hours exploring every corner, from the serene pond to the carefully raked gravel gardens. The cherry blossoms were still clinging on, adding a touch of pink to the already picturesque scene. It was easy to get lost in the tranquility of the place, a welcome escape from the bustling city outside.

Heian Shrine: A Burst of Color

Next on our itinerary was the Heian Shrine.


Explore Heian Shrine in Kyoto for a serene experience of stunning gardens, rich history, and traditional Japanese architecture.
The contrast between the understated elegance of the Imperial Palace and the vibrant colors of Heian Shrine was striking. The shrine, with its bright vermillion gates and traditional architecture, was a feast for the eyes. Apparently, there's a special concert event happening here, the Heian Shrine Sakura Onya, featuring music amidst the cherry blossoms at night. It sounded magical, but unfortunately, our schedule didn't align with the event dates. Nevertheless, the shrine was beautiful in the daylight, with its serene gardens and picturesque pond. I made sure to take plenty of photos, trying to capture the essence of this vibrant and spiritual place.

We wandered through the gardens, admiring the weeping cherry trees and the carefully manicured landscapes. The air was filled with the scent of incense and the gentle murmur of prayers. It was a peaceful and reflective experience, a chance to connect with the spiritual side of Kyoto. There was a palpable sense of history and tradition here, a feeling that you were walking in the footsteps of generations of worshippers.

For lunch, we ventured to Masayoshi Japanese Dining.


Experience authentic Japanese steakhouse dining at Masayoshi in Kyoto—where tradition meets culinary excellence.
The reviews I read promised an authentic experience, and it didn't disappoint. The restaurant had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We opted for a selection of local specialties, savoring every bite. It was a delicious and satisfying meal, a perfect way to refuel after a morning of sightseeing.

Philosopher's Path: A Tranquil Stroll

In the afternoon, we embarked on a leisurely stroll along the Philosopher's Path.


Explore the Philosopher's Path, a serene journey through nature and philosophy in Kyoto, lined with cherry blossoms and historic temples.
This tranquil route follows a canal lined with cherry trees, connecting Ginkaku-ji Temple to Nanzen-ji Temple. Although most of the cherry blossoms were gone, the path still retained its charm, with lush greenery and the gentle sound of flowing water creating a peaceful atmosphere. It was easy to see why this path was a favorite spot for philosophers seeking contemplation.

As we walked, we passed quaint cafes, small temples, and charming shops. It was a delightful mix of nature and culture, a perfect way to experience the quieter side of Kyoto. I couldn't resist stopping at a small teahouse for a traditional matcha tea, savoring the moment and soaking in the serene surroundings. The Philosopher's Path was a welcome escape from the crowds, a chance to slow down and appreciate the simple beauty of nature. According to some reports, the Philosopher's Path had falling cherry blossom petals covering the Lake Biwa Canal creating a flowing flower raft just a few days ago. I can only imagine how beautiful that must have been!

Before dinner, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy at Kyoto LOFT.


Explore Kyoto LOFT: A vibrant general store with cosmetics, home goods, and unique novelties in the heart of Kyoto.
This multi-story emporium was a treasure trove of contemporary Japanese lifestyle products, from innovative home goods to trendy stationery. I was particularly drawn to the unique gifts and souvenirs, perfect for bringing back a piece of Japan to our friends and family in Berlin. Hans, surprisingly, was fascinated by the stationery section, marveling at the intricate designs and high-quality craftsmanship. We spent a good hour browsing the shelves, picking up a few souvenirs and a couple of quirky items that caught our eye.

For our final meal of the day, we treated ourselves to a memorable dinner at French Dining Top of Kyoto.


Discover the exquisite flavors of French cuisine at French Dining Top of Kyoto – where culinary artistry meets stunning views.
Located on the 14th floor of the Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto, this revolving restaurant offered stunning panoramic views of the city. As the restaurant slowly rotated, we were treated to a 360-degree vista of Kyoto's skyline, from the historic temples to the surrounding mountains. The food was exquisite, a fusion of French techniques and local ingredients. It was a truly special dining experience, a perfect way to end a day of exploration. As someone who enjoys the finer things in life, I appreciated the elegant atmosphere and impeccable service. Hans, ever the romantic, was captivated by the breathtaking views, making it a night to remember.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Nishiki Market, Kenninji Temple, and the Gion district. I'm particularly excited about Nishiki Market, as I've heard it's a foodie's paradise. And later we might wind down the day with a drink at Bar Fishbowl.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Kyoto. It's a city that truly captivates the soul, a place where history and modernity blend seamlessly. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, as we continue our journey through this enchanting city.

I'm starting to feel like I'm truly connecting with the spirit of Japan, and I can't wait to share more of my experiences with you all. Stay tuned for more tales from Kyoto!