Cherry Blossom Adventures in Kyoto with Friends

Whispers of Ancient Echoes

Today was a day of gentle exploration, a deliberate wandering through Kyoto’s serene landscapes. Leaving behind the bustling city streets, I sought solace in the tranquil embrace of shrines, gardens, and historic pathways. It’s moments like these, where time seems to slow, that I truly connect with the essence of a place.


Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Anzukko. I opted for the traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and perfectly steamed rice. It was a delicious and nourishing start to what promised to be a day filled with exploration. I was keen to see if the cherry blossoms were starting to bloom, as I had heard that they were particularly beautiful this year.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Anzukko in Kyoto - renowned for exquisite gyoza and vibrant izakaya atmosphere.

From Anzukko, we made our way to the Heian Shrine. The vibrant vermillion of the buildings against the clear blue sky was striking. The sheer scale of the place is impressive, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as we walked through the outer gardens. The weeping cherry trees, though not yet in full bloom, hinted at the spectacle to come. I took several photos, trying to capture the grandeur of the shrine, but no image could truly do it justice. Pieter was particularly interested in the history of the shrine, reading every English sign he could find. I found myself more drawn to the peacefulness of the gardens, a welcome respite from the city's hustle.


Explore Heian Shrine in Kyoto for a serene experience of stunning gardens, rich history, and traditional Japanese architecture.

After spending a couple of hours at Heian Shrine, we decided to embrace the famed Philosopher's Path. Starting near Ginkaku-ji (the Silver Pavilion), which we decided to save for another day, we strolled along the canal, the water reflecting the sky like a long, shimmering mirror. The path was lined with cherry trees, some just beginning to blossom, their delicate pink petals a promise of spring. It was easy to understand why this path is so beloved; there was a palpable sense of tranquility, a feeling of being connected to something ancient and timeless. We passed other walkers, some locals, some tourists like us, all seemingly caught in the same spell of serenity.

Explore the Philosopher's Path, a serene journey through nature and philosophy in Kyoto, lined with cherry blossoms and historic temples.

As we walked, we paused to admire the small shops and cafes that dotted the path. We stopped at a little shop called Japan Culture & Character Shop Guf 京都店. It was filled with quirky and cute items, from miniature figurines to beautifully crafted paper fans. I couldn't resist buying a small, hand-painted Daruma doll, a symbol of perseverance and good luck. It's now sitting on my desk in Delft, a reminder of this peaceful afternoon.

Explore Japan Culture & Character Shop Guf in Kyoto for unique souvenirs and hobby items that reflect the rich artistic heritage of Japan.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in grand monuments, but in the quiet corners of the world, where the whispers of history blend with the gentle rustling of leaves.

Lunch was at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, a small, unassuming restaurant that Pieter had found online. We sat at the counter, watching the chef expertly prepare our okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with cabbage, meat, and seafood. It was delicious, the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The restaurant was filled with locals, chatting and laughing, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

Experience authentic teppanyaki at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, Kyoto's premier destination for Japanese cuisine in a lively izakaya setting.

Our final stop of the day was Nanzen-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple known for its stunning gardens and impressive Sanmon gate. The temple grounds were expansive, with several sub-temples and walking paths to explore. We climbed the Sanmon gate, which offered panoramic views of the city. The view was breathtaking, a tapestry of rooftops and green spaces stretching as far as the eye could see. Inside the main temple, we sat in silence, listening to the gentle chanting of the monks. It was a deeply moving experience, a moment of quiet contemplation in the midst of our busy travels.

Discover the tranquility of Nanzen-ji, a historic Buddhist temple complex in Kyoto, where spirituality meets stunning natural beauty.

The gardens at Nanzen-ji were particularly beautiful, a carefully curated landscape of rocks, ponds, and moss. The colors were muted, a palette of greens and browns that created a sense of harmony and balance. We spent a long time wandering through the gardens, admiring the intricate details and appreciating the artistry of the design.

For dinner, we had reservations at Yoshikawa, a traditional ryotei restaurant known for its exquisite kaiseki cuisine. The meal was a work of art, a series of small, beautifully presented dishes that showcased the flavors of the season. Each dish was a surprise, a delicate balance of sweet, savory, and umami. The service was impeccable, the staff attentive and knowledgeable. It was an expensive meal, but worth every penny. It felt like a fitting end to a day of cultural immersion and sensory delights.

Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Yoshikawa, where tradition meets exceptional flavors in the heart of Kyoto.

As I sit here in our hotel room, reflecting on the day, I feel a deep sense of gratitude. Kyoto has a way of slowing you down, of making you appreciate the simple things in life. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace and the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, followed by Shimogamo Shrine. I’m also looking forward to trying out Kyoto Star Bar, a local bar, for a nightcap. I'm excited to see what new adventures tomorrow will bring, but for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a mental note to buy a travel adapter when I get a chance. I completely forgot about it, and it's been a hassle trying to charge my camera and phone. Also, I need to remember to apply sunscreen tomorrow. The sun was stronger than I thought today, and I can already feel a slight burn on my cheeks.

Goodnight from Kyoto!