A Cultural Journey Through Kyoto with My Husband

Kyoto's Timeless Charms

Today was a deep dive into the heart of Kyoto, exploring places where history whispers and beauty unfolds in unexpected corners. From the vibrant pathways of Fushimi Inari to the tranquil streets of Saga Toriimoto and the refined elegance of Katsura Imperial Villa, each location offered a unique perspective on Japan's cultural tapestry. It was a day of discovery, reflection, and sheer awe at the artistry and spirit that define this enchanting city.


Explore the enchanting Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto's iconic Shinto shrine famous for its thousands of vibrant torii gates and breathtaking mountain trails.

Our day began early, fueled by excitement and a hearty breakfast at Nishikawa. Their traditional Japanese breakfast set the perfect tone for a day immersed in culture. The delicate flavors and meticulous presentation were a delightful start.

Fushimi Inari Taisha: A Journey Through a Thousand Gates

Our first stop was Fushimi Inari Taisha. Even though I had seen countless photos, nothing prepared me for the sheer visual impact of those vermilion torii gates snaking up the mountainside. Hans and I arrived ready to embrace the climb. The early morning air was crisp, carrying a hint of incense that added to the mystical atmosphere.

As we walked beneath the first gate, it felt like stepping into another world. The vibrant color of the gates against the lush green forest created a stunning contrast. Each gate is a donation from a company or individual, their names inscribed on the pillars. It's a tangible representation of faith and gratitude.

The higher we climbed, the fewer people we encountered. It was wonderful to escape the crowds and find moments of quiet contemplation. We paused at small shrines along the way, each with its own unique charm. I found myself particularly drawn to the fox statues, or *kitsune*, which are considered messengers of Inari, the god of rice and prosperity. Their expressions were so varied, some fierce, some serene, each holding a symbolic item like a key, a scroll, or a ball.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its famous landmarks, but in the serene corners where history and nature intertwine, inviting introspection and wonder.

We didn't make it all the way to the summit. I'll admit, the climb was more strenuous than I anticipated! But we reached a point where we could look back and see the city stretching out before us, a breathtaking panorama of rooftops and distant hills. It was a moment of quiet triumph, a shared experience that I'll always treasure. I definitely recommend wearing comfortable shoes; my feet were grateful I listened to everyone's advice!

Saga Toriimoto: Stepping Back in Time

Next, we journeyed to Saga Toriimoto, a preserved street in the Arashiyama district. This was a delightful contrast to the grandeur of Fushimi Inari. Saga Toriimoto offers a glimpse into Kyoto's past, with its traditional wooden machiya houses lining the street. It felt like stepping onto a movie set, each building whispering stories of a bygone era. I was also happy to note that it was not as crowded as other areas in Kyoto.

We strolled along the street, admiring the architecture and peeking into artisan shops selling crafts and sweets. Many of the houses have been converted into teahouses and restaurants, maintaining their Edo and Meiji-era facades. The atmosphere was serene and charming, a world away from the bustling city.

Our destination was the Saga Toriimoto Town-scape Archive Hall, a local history museum housed in a beautifully restored Meiji-era townhouse. Inside, we learned about the history of the area and the efforts to preserve its unique character. The museum had an elaborate model showcasing life in the 1930s. It was fascinating to see how people lived and worked in this community so many years ago. It was also a nice escape from the sun, and we enjoyed learning about this unique town.


Explore the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto at the Saga Toriimoto Town-scape Archive Hall, a captivating local history museum filled with charm.

After the museum, we enjoyed a light lunch at Saishuan Shiraki. This small restaurant offered a vegan Kyoto-style meal, and it was delicious. It was a cozy place to sit and reflect on what we had seen in Saga Toriimoto.

Katsura Imperial Villa: A Masterpiece of Harmony

Our final destination for the day was Katsura Imperial Villa. Getting a reservation to visit this place is no easy feat, but it was absolutely worth the effort. The villa is a stunning example of Japanese architecture and garden design, built in the 17th century for a member of the imperial family.

The villa is renowned for its harmonious blend of buildings and gardens. Every element is carefully considered, from the placement of stones to the design of the tea houses. The villa exemplifies simplicity and naturalness.

We joined a guided tour, which was essential to understanding the significance of each feature. The tour guide explained the history of the villa and pointed out the subtle details that make it so special. Although the tour was in Japanese, we were given an English audio guide, which helped us follow along. I was so impressed with the design, and how well the natural surroundings blended with the buildings.

One of the highlights was the view from the main villa, which overlooks the meticulously landscaped gardens. The gardens are designed to be enjoyed from different perspectives, with pathways leading to various tea houses and scenic viewpoints. Each tea house has a unique design and purpose, from the Moon-Viewing Pavilion to the Flower-Appreciation Pavilion.

The villa is open all year round, and the gardens change with the seasons. I can only imagine how beautiful it must be in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, or in the autumn when the maple leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold. Even in April, the gardens were a delight.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Katsura Imperial Villa, a historical gem in Kyoto, showcasing exquisite gardens and traditional Japanese architecture.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to the hotel, our minds filled with the beauty and history we had experienced throughout the day. For dinner, we decided to try Teppan Tavern Tenamonya. It was a great choice! We were able to relax with some excellent food after a busy day.

Reflections and Anticipations

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel. It's about discovering new places, immersing myself in different cultures, and connecting with history and art. Kyoto has a way of captivating the soul, of inviting you to slow down and appreciate the beauty that surrounds you.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore more of Kyoto's temples and shrines, including Shorenin Temple and Yasaka Shrine. I'm also looking forward to experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of Gion Corner. And perhaps we'll find time to relax at the Turquoise Bar.

Until then, *sayōnara* from Kyoto!