Cultural Immersion in Kyoto: A Journey Through Time

A Day of Make-Believe and Reflection

Today was a day of contrasts, a whirlwind of cinematic excitement followed by the quiet contemplation of ancient temples. Kyoto continues to surprise and enchant, offering a blend of experiences that feed both the imagination and the soul. Olivia and I embraced the day with open hearts, ready for whatever adventures lay ahead.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Sakuragawa, a cozy spot near our hotel. Fuelled up and ready, we set off for Toei Kyoto Studio Park. I’ve always been fascinated by the art of filmmaking, and the chance to step onto a real movie set was too good to pass up. The park is a working studio where *jidaigeki*, or period dramas, are filmed. It’s also a theme park where visitors can immerse themselves in the world of samurai, ninja, and geisha. However, the park will be closed for maintenance from January 20th to 24th, 2025, so we were lucky to visit it today.


Discover the enchantment of Japanese cinema at Toei Kyoto Studio Park, where film sets and interactive experiences come together for endless fun.

As we entered, it felt like stepping back in time. Edo-period streets stretched out before us, lined with traditional shops and houses. We watched a ninja show, complete with acrobatic stunts and sword fights. Olivia, ever the artist, was particularly captivated by the intricate costumes and set designs. I, of course, was geeking out over the behind-the-scenes glimpses of how special effects are created. We even saw a few actors in full costume, wandering the streets between takes.

Travel is about the unexpected detours and the stories you collect along the way.

One of the highlights was the chance to dress up in period costumes ourselves. Olivia chose a beautiful kimono, while I opted for a samurai outfit, complete with a (blunt) sword. We strolled through the streets, posing for photos and feeling like we'd been transported to another era. It was a bit touristy, sure, but also undeniably fun. I felt a bit like a kid again, lost in a world of make-believe. It reminded me of playing dress-up back in Évora, pretending to be a knight in shining armor, ready to defend my castle.

After a morning of cinematic adventures, we were ready for a change of pace. We hopped on a bus and headed towards Kodaiji Temple, nestled in the hills of Higashiyama. Founded in 1606 by Nene, the widow of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan's most famous historical figures, the temple is a place of serene beauty and historical significance. The walk to the temple was a treat in itself, with narrow streets lined with traditional shops and tea houses. The winter air was crisp and clean, and the absence of the usual tourist crowds made the experience all the more special.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Kodaiji Temple, a historical Buddhist temple in Kyoto, showcasing stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.

As we entered the temple grounds, the hustle and bustle of the city faded away. The gardens were meticulously manicured, with raked gravel paths, ancient trees, and moss-covered stones. We wandered through the main hall, admiring the intricate carvings and the peaceful atmosphere. The temple is known for its Kodaiji Maki-e lacquerware, which adorns many of the buildings and artifacts. Olivia, with her graphic designer's eye, was particularly impressed by the artistry and craftsmanship.

One of the most striking features of Kodaiji is its bamboo grove. Towering stalks of bamboo soared towards the sky, creating a cathedral-like space filled with dappled light and the gentle rustling of leaves. Walking through the grove felt like entering another world, a place of tranquility and contemplation. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and connection to nature, a feeling that's often hard to come by in the midst of city life.

From Kodaiji, we made our way to Yasaka Kōshin-dō Temple, a small but vibrant temple known for its colorful *kukurizaru* monkeys. These cloth balls, each representing a suppressed desire, are hung by visitors as a way to ward off bad luck and achieve their goals. The temple was a riot of color, with hundreds of *kukurizaru* dangling from the eaves. It was a cheerful and uplifting sight, a reminder that even in the midst of life's challenges, there's always room for hope and optimism. I read that the temple is said to be beneficial for “healing illness,” “bringing good luck,” and “boosting motivation by eliminating greed”.


Explore the tranquil Yasaka Kōshin-dō Temple in Kyoto, a stunning Buddhist sanctuary filled with rich traditions and serene beauty.

For lunch, we had Kobe Beef Steak at Restaurant MOURIYA GION. The restaurant is elegant with an interior that was designed by a Kyoto designer. The service was top-notch and the food was delicious. I had the Kobe sirloin and it was great. The restaurant uses A5-grade wagyu Kobe beef and cattle that closely follow the bloodline of Hyogo Prefecture-raised wagyu Tajima Beef, which has equal high quality as Kobe beef. All the seating is counter seating facing the teppan hotplate so customers can savor the meat at its best.


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

In the late afternoon, we decided to explore the Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade. This covered street is home to a mix of traditional shops and modern boutiques, offering everything from local crafts to trendy fashion. We strolled through the arcade, browsing the shops and soaking up the lively atmosphere. Olivia found a beautiful silk scarf, while I picked up a few souvenirs for our friends back home in Toronto. It was the perfect place to find unique gifts and experience the local culture. It seems like it's never-ending with stores and restaurants, especially tax-free and souvenir stores.


Discover the heart of Kyoto at Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade, where traditional charm meets modern shopping and dining.

As evening approached, we sought out Bar Dram, a cozy little bar known for its extensive selection of Japanese whiskies. I've been wanting to expand my whisky palate, and this seemed like the perfect opportunity. The bartender was knowledgeable and friendly, guiding me through the different varieties and offering recommendations based on my preferences. Olivia, not a whisky drinker herself, enjoyed a glass of local sake. The bar had a quaint atmosphere and a massive selection of whiskies. The bartender spoke a little bit of broken English but was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about talking Japanese Whiskey.


Discover the essence of fine drinking at Bar Dram in Kyoto, where premium spirits and a cozy atmosphere await.

Finally, for dinner, we chose Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi, a restaurant specializing in premium steak. Located along the Takase River, it has a relaxed atmosphere for adults. All of the seats are counter seats, allowing you to see the cooking techniques performed by the chef. It was the perfect way to end a day of contrasts, a celebration of both the modern and the traditional sides of Kyoto. The steak was cooked to perfection, and the ambiance was both elegant and inviting.


Experience Kyoto's vibrant food scene with authentic yakiniku at Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi, where every bite tells a delicious story.

As we walked back to our hotel, the city lights twinkled around us. The air was filled with the sounds of laughter and music, a reminder that Kyoto is a city that never sleeps. I thought about the day's adventures, the movie magic, the serene temples, the delicious food, and the warm hospitality of the people we'd met along the way. It was a day that had fed both our imaginations and our souls, a reminder of why we love to travel and explore new cultures.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Ryozen Kannon Temple, Gion Corner, and Ninenzaka. I’m particularly interested in seeing Gion Corner, as I’ve heard it offers a fascinating glimpse into Kyoto’s traditional arts scene. We’ll also be doing some more shopping at Kyoto Avanti and perhaps unwinding at Rocking Bar ING.

Good night from Kyoto!