Cherry Blossom Adventures in Kyoto with Friends

Kyoto's Royal and Sacred Echoes

Today was a beautiful exploration of Kyoto's historical and spiritual heart. From the grandeur of the Kyoto Imperial Palace to the serene beauty of ancient shrines, every moment felt like stepping back in time. The cherry blossoms added an extra layer of magic, making it a day I'll always cherish.

The day began with an early start, eager to explore the Kyoto Imperial Palace. After a quick but delicious breakfast at KINMATA, known for its traditional Kyoto cuisine, we set off. The weather was pleasantly cool, perfect for a day of walking and sightseeing. Though I had forgotten my travel adapter, which was a bit of a hiccup, the excitement of the day quickly overshadowed it. Pieter, ever the prepared one, had thankfully packed his!


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
Arriving at the Kyoto Imperial Palace, I was immediately struck by its serene atmosphere. The palace, once home to Japan's Imperial Family until 1868, stands as a testament to the country's rich history. The architecture, rebuilt in 1855, reflects various eras, offering a glimpse into the lives of emperors and empresses. Walking through the complex, surrounded by long walls, gates, and halls, I could almost hear the echoes of ancient ceremonies and imperial decrees.

The Shishinden (Hall for State Ceremonies) was particularly impressive. It was amazing to stand in the very place where Emperors Meiji, Taisho, and Showa held their enthronement ceremonies. The Takamikura Imperial Throne and Michodai August Seat of the Empress were sights to behold, steeped in history and tradition. Although we couldn't enter the buildings, simply wandering the grounds and taking in the atmosphere was a deeply moving experience.

Kyoto Gyoen National Garden: A Tranquil Escape
Adjacent to the Imperial Palace lies Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a sprawling green space that once housed the residences of court nobles. Today, it's a public park, offering a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. As we strolled through the garden, the cherry blossoms provided a stunning backdrop, their delicate pink petals creating a scene of unparalleled beauty.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a historic park offering stunning landscapes and a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.

The garden is meticulously maintained, with plum, peach, and cherry trees dotting the landscape. I was particularly drawn to the weeping cherry trees near the Konoe Residence ruins, their cascading branches creating a breathtaking spectacle. The Demizu Water Stream added to the garden's charm, its gentle flow creating a soothing soundtrack to our walk. It was the perfect place to relax and soak in the beauty of spring.

Shimogamo Shrine: Ancient Sanctuary in the Forest
Our next stop was Shimogamo Shrine, one of Kyoto's oldest and most important Shinto sanctuaries. Located at the junction of the Takano and Kamo rivers, the shrine is surrounded by the Tadasu no Mori forest, a vast expanse of ancient trees that create a sense of profound peace. As we walked through the forest, I couldn't help but feel a connection to the past, imagining the countless generations who have walked these same paths.


Explore the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Shimogamo Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, Japan.

The shrine itself is dedicated to Tamayori-hime and her father, Kamo Taketsunomi, deities who protect Kyoto from evil influences. The architecture is stunning, with its classic white and vermilion colors standing out against the lush greenery. We visited the Mitarashi-sha subsidiary shrine, located over a fresh underground spring, and admired the small shrines dedicated to the Chinese Zodiac. The history of this place is palpable; it's believed that the site has been in use for over 2,000 years!

Visiting Kyoto's historical sites is like stepping into a living painting, where every brushstroke tells a story of emperors, deities, and the enduring spirit of Japan.

A Culinary Journey: Lunch and Dinner Delights
For lunch, we ventured to Komefuku, a local restaurant known for its delicious and reasonably priced tempura and seafood. I opted for the tempura and sushi set, which was incredibly satisfying. The tempura was perfectly crispy, and the sushi was fresh and flavorful. It was a delightful culinary experience, made even better by the friendly atmosphere and the fact that we were surrounded by locals.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Komefuku in Kyoto, renowned for its fresh seafood and exquisite tempura dishes.

As evening approached, we made our way to Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION for a truly special dinner. This restaurant is renowned for its high-quality Kobe beef, and I was eager to experience it for myself. The ambiance was elegant and refined, with a modern twist on traditional Japanese style. We were seated at a counter overlooking the teppanyaki grill, where a skilled chef prepared our meal with precision and artistry.


Experience unparalleled flavors at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION in Kyoto - a must-visit for steak lovers seeking authenticity.

I chose the Kobe filet, cooked medium-well, and it was simply divine. The meat was incredibly tender, with a rich, buttery flavor that melted in my mouth. The chef also prepared garlic chips and grilled vegetables, which complemented the beef perfectly. It was a culinary experience I won't soon forget. Pieter enjoyed the rib eye, and we both agreed it was worth every penny!

Nightcap at Kyoto Star Bar
To cap off the day, we decided to visit Kyoto Star Bar, a cozy and inviting spot known for its creative cocktails. The bar has a unique atmosphere, with Mozart playing in the background and flower arrangements adding a touch of elegance. I ordered a signature cocktail, expertly crafted with local ingredients, while Pieter enjoyed a classic highball. It was the perfect way to relax and reflect on the day's adventures.


Discover the perfect blend of cocktails and coffee at Kyoto Star Bar, a stylish retreat in the heart of Kyoto's vibrant nightlife.

Looking Ahead
As I write this, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's itinerary. We'll be visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha, with its thousands of vibrant red torii gates, Tofuku-ji Temple, known for its stunning Zen gardens, and Kyoto Tower, which promises panoramic views of the city. We also plan to do some shopping at Musubi -kyoto- for some unique souvenirs. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Today was a reminder of why I love traveling. Immersing myself in different cultures, exploring historical sites, and savoring local flavors is an enriching experience that broadens my perspective and creates lasting memories. And sharing these moments with friends makes it all the more special. Although I missed the Hanezu Odori festival, which was also today, the day was full of cultural exploration! As I settle in for the night at Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi, I'm grateful for the experiences of the day and excited for what's to come.


Discover the charm of Kyoto at Hotel Forza Shijo Kawaramachi, your ideal base for exploring the city’s rich culture and vibrant neighborhoods.

Also, I need to remember to buy some sunscreen tomorrow!