Cherry Blossom Adventures in Kyoto with Friends

Kyoto's Tapestry: Temples, Towers, and Timeless Traditions

Today was a whirlwind of cultural exploration and stunning vistas, a perfect blend of Kyoto's ancient soul and modern skyline. Pieter and I, along with our friends, embarked on a journey that took us from the mesmerizing vermillion gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha. It was a day filled with awe, reflection, and the simple joy of experiencing this incredible city with cherished company.

Our day began with an early start to beat the crowds at Fushimi Inari Taisha. I had heard so much about this iconic shrine, and seeing it in person was even more breathtaking than I imagined. The seemingly endless path of vibrant orange torii gates snaking up the mountain was a sight to behold. It felt like stepping into another world, a sacred realm where the boundary between the earthly and the divine blurred. I made sure to pack my camera, knowing I'd want to capture the beauty of this place. I even managed to snag a few solo shots of Pieter amidst the gates, his green eyes sparkling in the filtered sunlight.


Explore the enchanting Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto's iconic Shinto shrine famous for its thousands of vibrant torii gates and breathtaking mountain trails.
As we ascended, the air grew cooler, and the crowds thinned out, allowing for moments of quiet contemplation. The intricate details of each gate, inscribed with the names of donors, told a story of faith and devotion. We paused at several small shrines along the way, offering prayers for good fortune and safe travels. The higher we climbed, the more rewarding the views became, with glimpses of Kyoto sprawling beneath us. I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for being able to experience such a unique and spiritual place.

The journey through Kyoto's landmarks is a reminder that beauty and serenity can be found in both the ancient and the modern, the sacred and the secular.

After descending from Fushimi Inari, we made our way to Tōfuku-ji Temple, a serene oasis of Zen gardens and historic architecture. Founded in 1236, this temple is one of Kyoto's Five Great Zen Temples, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. The Hojo Garden, with its checkerboard pattern of stones and moss, was a masterpiece of minimalist design. I loved how the simple arrangement created a sense of harmony and balance, inviting contemplation and inner peace. Pieter, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the temple's history and the intricate details of its construction. He spent a good amount of time admiring the Sanmon Gate, the oldest Zen gate in Japan, rebuilt in 1425. It's amazing to think of all the history that has unfolded within these walls.


Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Tōfuku-ji Temple, a must-visit Buddhist landmark in Kyoto.
For lunch, we ventured to MUGHAL Indian Restaurant & Bar, a charming spot recommended to us by a local. I was a bit hesitant at first, craving a more traditional Japanese meal, but Pieter convinced me to give it a try. And I'm so glad we did! The restaurant was tucked away near the Kamo River, with a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The owner, a Kyoto native with a passion for Indian cuisine, greeted us warmly and guided us through the menu. I opted for the prawn pakora, while Pieter chose the chilli chicken. We shared a sag paneer and some naan, all of which were bursting with flavor. It was a delightful culinary detour, a reminder that travel is about embracing new experiences and unexpected delights.


Experience the vibrant flavors of India at Mughal Indian Restaurant & Bar in Kyoto – a haven for food lovers seeking authentic South Asian cuisine.
In the afternoon, we had lunch at Hyoto Shijo Karasuma. It was an amazing experience, from the moment we stepped inside. The restaurant had a stylish, modern interior, with both table seating in an open area and private rooms available. We opted for the Dashi Shabu lunch featuring branded pork. It was a set menu that started with a Sakura-scented sesame tofu appetizer. Then came the main event: branded pork dashi shabu-shabu with assorted seasonal vegetables and plenty of chopped green onions and yuzu pepper. The meal ended with fresh udon noodles, which we enjoyed with curry powder for a unique twist. It was an unforgettable meal that really highlighted the local flavors of Kyoto, and a perfect way to refuel after our morning adventures.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors with exquisite hot pot and Kaiseki dishes at Hyoto Shijo Karasuma in Kyoto.
Our final stop for the day was Kyoto Tower, a modern landmark that offers panoramic views of the city. I had mixed feelings about visiting the tower, as it seemed a bit out of place amidst Kyoto's traditional landscape. However, I have to admit that the views from the observation deck were truly spectacular. From 100 meters high, we could see the entire city sprawling beneath us, with its temples, shrines, and gardens laid out like a miniature map. We even spotted Tofuku-ji Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha in the distance, a reminder of our earlier adventures. It was a perfect way to gain a new perspective on Kyoto, to see how its ancient heritage blends seamlessly with its modern identity. It's amazing to be able to see Kiyomizu-dera Temple, To-ji Temple and Chion-in Temple from above.


Discover breathtaking views and unique souvenirs at Nidec Kyoto Tower, the iconic landmark that embodies Kyoto's rich cultural heritage.
Before dinner, we did some shopping at musubi -kyoto-, a shop I stumbled upon while wandering through the side streets. It was a small, unassuming place, but it was filled with unique and beautiful crafts, from handmade ceramics to delicate textiles. I picked up a few small gifts for family back home, as well as a lovely silk scarf for myself. I love finding these little hidden gems, places that offer a glimpse into the local culture and creativity.


Discover the beauty of traditional kimonos and fashion accessories at Musubi, a gem in the heart of Kyoto’s cultural landscape.
For dinner, we had a reservation at THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO｜Restaurant, a restaurant housed in a beautifully restored traditional building. The atmosphere was elegant and refined, with a serene garden view. The food was exquisite, a fusion of Italian and Japanese flavors. I savored every bite of my meal, from the delicate appetizer to the rich and flavorful main course. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day, a celebration of Kyoto's culinary artistry. The restaurant used to be the residence of a famous Japanese painter, Takeuchi Seiho, which added to the charm and elegance.


Discover the perfect blend of Italian culinary artistry and traditional Japanese ambiance at The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto.
As we headed back to Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible day we had. From the spiritual heights of Fushimi Inari to the tranquil gardens of Tofuku-ji and the panoramic views from Kyoto Tower, we had experienced the essence of this captivating city. And, of course, no day is complete without some delicious food. From the tasty Indian at Mughal, to the traditional Kyoto flavors at Hyoto Shijo Karasuma and the Italian-Japanese fusion at THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO, every meal was a culinary adventure. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Pieter and our friends, to create memories that will last a lifetime.


Discover the charm of Kyoto at Hotel Forza Shijo Kawaramachi, your ideal base for exploring the city’s rich culture and vibrant neighborhoods.
Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Kodaiji Temple, Maruyama Park, and Gion Corner. I'm especially excited to see the cherry blossoms in Maruyama Park, as they should be in full bloom by now. I am also looking forward to the bar we are planning to visit: The Common One Bar Kyoto.

I'm also glad I remembered to pack my light jacket, as the spring weather can be unpredictable. However, I'm kicking myself for forgetting the travel adapter and sunscreen. Pieter keeps reminding me that I need to be more organized, but I guess that's part of the charm of traveling with me. Until tomorrow, sayōnara!