A Cultural Journey Through Kyoto with My Husband

Kyoto's Charms Unveiled

Our journey through Kyoto began today, and what an enchanting start it was! From the majestic Nijō Castle to the colorful Kyoto International Manga Museum and the shimmering Kinkaku-ji, every moment was a delightful immersion into Japan's rich cultural tapestry. The city welcomed us with open arms, and I couldn't wait to share every detail of our first day.

The journey from Berlin to Osaka was smooth, and the train ride to Kyoto offered a tranquil transition from the bustling airport to the serene city. Hans was particularly excited about the efficient and punctual Japanese trains, a stark contrast to our usual experiences in Europe. Arriving at TSUGU Kyoto Sanjo by THE SHARE HOTELS, we quickly settled in. The hotel's contemporary design, blended with traditional Japanese elements, made it a perfect base for our adventures.


Experience modern convenience at TSUGU Kyoto Sanjo, a welcoming hotel located moments from Kyoto's vibrant attractions and rich culture.

Our first stop was Nijō Castle. I'd read about the 'NAKED meets Nijo Castle 2025 Sakura' event, a nighttime digital art installation celebrating cherry blossoms, but we were visiting during the day. Still, the castle was breathtaking. The intricate details of the Ninomaru Palace were astounding. Walking through the corridors, I could almost hear the echoes of shoguns and emperors past. The 'nightingale floors' were particularly fascinating; their unique chirping sound, designed to alert residents to intruders, added an element of intrigue to our exploration. The gardens, though not in full bloom, were meticulously manicured, offering a glimpse of the natural beauty that Kyoto is so famous for. The weather was pleasant, with a gentle breeze and a promise of warmer days ahead.


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

Kyoto is a city where history whispers from every corner, and beauty unfolds in every garden.

After soaking in the history at Nijō Castle, we headed to the Kyoto International Manga Museum. As a freelance content writer and social media manager, I have a soft spot for visual storytelling, and this museum was a paradise. The sheer volume of manga on display was overwhelming, spanning decades of artistic evolution. Hans, though not as familiar with manga as I am, was captivated by the artistry and creativity on display. We spent hours browsing through the exhibits, discovering new artists and rediscovering old favorites. I even found a rare first edition of one of my childhood favorites, which I couldn't resist buying as a souvenir. I managed to find a small corner to read manga in peace. It was a pure bliss.


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

Lunch at Kyoto cuisine Teramachi Yoshikura was a delightful culinary experience. The restaurant specializes in Obanzai, traditional Kyoto-style home cooking. The all-you-can-eat Obanzai option was a treat, with a variety of dishes featuring seasonal vegetables and fresh fish. The flavors were delicate and refined, a testament to the culinary heritage of Kyoto. Hans particularly enjoyed the sake selection, sampling a few local varieties that paired perfectly with our meal. I found the staff to be very friendly and helpful, which made the experience even more enjoyable. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of the dishes back in Berlin.


Discover authentic Kyoto cuisine at Teramachi Yoshikura – where traditional flavors meet modern creativity in an unforgettable dining experience.

Our final stop for the day was Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. As we approached the temple, the sight of the shimmering golden structure reflecting in the tranquil pond took our breath away. It was even more stunning than the pictures I'd seen. The temple, originally built as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, is now a Zen Buddhist temple and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The meticulous craftsmanship and the serene setting created an atmosphere of profound peace. We took our time wandering around the grounds, admiring the carefully manicured gardens and the picturesque teahouse. I couldn't resist taking dozens of photos, trying to capture the ethereal beauty of the Golden Pavilion from every angle. It was crowded, but the beauty of the temple transcended the throngs of tourists.


Explore Kinkaku-ji, the breathtaking Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, where history and nature blend beautifully in a tranquil setting.

Before heading back to the hotel, we made a quick stop at the Kyoto Station ASTY Kyoto Kyoani Goods Store. As a fan of Japanese animation, I was excited to see what the store had to offer. The store was filled with merchandise from various Kyoto Animation series, including "Haruhi Suzumiya," "K-ON!," and "Violet Evergarden." I picked up a few souvenirs for myself and some gifts for friends back in Berlin. Hans, ever the supportive husband, patiently waited while I indulged my inner otaku.


Explore Kyoto Station ASTY Kyoto Kyoani Goods Store for exclusive anime merchandise and a taste of Japan's vibrant pop culture.

For dinner, we ventured to Gion Mikaku, a renowned steakhouse in the Gion district. The restaurant specializes in Wagyu beef, and the experience was nothing short of extraordinary. The chef prepared our steaks teppanyaki-style, right before our eyes. The beef was incredibly tender and flavorful, melting in our mouths with every bite. The ambiance of the restaurant, with its traditional Japanese decor and views of the Shirakawa River, added to the overall experience. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Kyoto.


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

As I sit here in our hotel room, reflecting on the day's adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead. Kyoto has already captured my heart, and I can't wait to explore more of its hidden gems. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, with its thousands of vibrant red torii gates, Tofuku-ji Temple, and the serene Kyoto Botanical Gardens. We also plan to have breakfast at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO, lunch at Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki & Teppan-yaki Kamehameha and dinner at Kikunoi Roan. And perhaps, if we have time, we might sneak in a visit to L'Escamoteur for a nightcap.

I did miss packing my travel umbrella today. It would have been useful to have it, considering the slight drizzle we experienced in the late afternoon. I also realized I should have brought an extra memory card for my camera; I nearly filled it up with all the photos I took today! But these are minor details in what was otherwise a perfect day.

Kyoto, with its blend of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy, has already exceeded my expectations. I am eager to see what other wonders await us on this incredible journey with Hans.