Cherry Blossom Adventures in Kyoto with Friends

Kyoto's Last Hurrah

As our cherry blossom adventure in Kyoto draws to a close, I wanted to soak up every last bit of this magical city. Today was a mix of history, culture, and, of course, delicious food, shared with the best company. It's bittersweet knowing that this is our final day, but we're determined to make it memorable.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hafuu. The restaurant's reputation for exquisite meat dishes was well-deserved. I went for the daily special, a perfectly cooked steak with a side of fluffy rice and miso soup. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. Pieter opted for the Katsu sandwich, which was also delicious. Fuelled up, we set off to explore Kyoto's treasures.


Discover Hafuu in Kyoto: where premium Japanese beef meets culinary excellence in an elegant setting.

First stop: the Kyoto Railway Museum! As someone who didn't grow up with trains, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. The sheer scale of the locomotives and the fascinating history behind them were captivating. I loved wandering through the different eras of Japanese railway history, from the early steam engines to the sleek, modern Shinkansen. Pieter, ever the engineer at heart, was in his element, explaining the mechanics and innovations of each train. We even got to climb aboard some of the trains, which was a fun experience. I was impressed by the museum's dedication to preserving Japan's railway heritage. It was a great way to learn about the country's technological advancements and the impact of trains on Japanese society.


Discover the rich history of railways at the Kyoto Railway Museum, a family-friendly attraction in the heart of Kyoto showcasing trains and interactive exhibits.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

Next on our list was Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period, the castle is a stunning example of feudal-era architecture. Stepping through the imposing gates felt like stepping back in time. The Ninomaru Palace, with its nightingale floors that chirp underfoot to warn of intruders, was particularly impressive. The intricate details of the palace rooms, the beautiful painted sliding doors, and the serene gardens transported me to another world. I learned that Nijo Castle was not only a symbol of power but also a place of significant historical events. It was here that the last shogun, Tokugawa Yoshinobu, officially returned political power to the Emperor Meiji, marking the end of the shogunate and the beginning of the Meiji Restoration. Walking through the castle grounds, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for the history that unfolded within its walls. The castle's design was intended to highlight the stability of the Edo Shogunate. The contrast between the opulence of the Ninomaru Palace and the more austere Honmaru area (which was largely destroyed by fire) was striking.


Explore the grandeur of Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, showcasing the beauty of feudal Japan's architecture and gardens.

After immersing ourselves in history, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at AEON MALL KYOTO. Located near Kyoto Station, this massive shopping complex offered a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It was the perfect place to pick up some last-minute souvenirs and gifts for family and friends back home. I found a beautiful silk scarf with a cherry blossom design for my mom, and Pieter bought a traditional Japanese tea set for his parents. We also stocked up on some delicious Japanese snacks to bring back to Delft. The mall was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. We enjoyed browsing through the different shops, from well-known Japanese brands like Uniqlo and Muji to international retailers. There was even a Daiso, the famous 100-yen store, where we found some quirky and fun souvenirs.


Explore AEON MALL KYOTO for a unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of Japan's cultural capital.

For our final dinner in Kyoto, we chose Fujiya, a restaurant known for its innovative cuisine and use of local ingredients. The meal was a culinary masterpiece, each dish beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. We started with a delicate amuse-bouche of seasonal vegetables, followed by a creamy mushroom soup that was both comforting and refined. The main course was a perfectly grilled Wagyu steak, so tender it melted in my mouth. The chef's attention to detail and passion for cooking were evident in every bite. It was the perfect ending to our culinary journey in Kyoto. I was curious to try this restaurant that combines traditional cooking with innovative cuisine.


Discover the exquisite flavors of traditional kaiseki cuisine at Fujiya in Kyoto - where every meal is a masterpiece.

As we savored our final meal, we reminisced about our adventures over the past two weeks. From the breathtaking beauty of the cherry blossoms to the rich cultural experiences and the delicious food, Kyoto had exceeded all our expectations. Traveling with friends had made the experience even more special, sharing laughter, stories, and unforgettable moments together. I am so grateful for the opportunity to have explored this incredible city and to have created memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we head back to Osaka to catch our flight back to the Netherlands. It's going to be a long journey, but I'm already looking forward to sharing our photos and stories with everyone back home. Kyoto, you have stolen a piece of my heart. Until next time!

The trip is ending, and I will be going back to my sustainable consultant job in Delft. I will be looking forward to hiking in the nearby nature reserves with Pieter, as well as going to local farmers markets.

ArticleSnippet: Kyoto, you have stolen a piece of my heart. Until next time!