Exploring Kyoto's Cultural Heritage with Friends

Kyoto's Gentle Embrace

Today was a day of gentle exploration and exquisite indulgence in Kyoto. The city unfolded its serene beauty, inviting us to wander through historic sites and lush gardens. It was a day where the past and present intertwined, creating moments of profound peace and culinary delight. I'm so glad I could share this experience with my friends, making memories that will last a lifetime.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Anzukko. Finding the place was a bit of an adventure in itself, tucked away in a small alley near Sanjo Station. The gyoza here are inventive and delicious. I decided to try their signature Anzukko Gyoza, and I understood why they limit it to eight per customer – each piece was a burst of juicy meat and alliums, with a thin, crispy bottom. It was the perfect start to fuel our day of exploration.


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

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off to the Heian Shrine. The shrine is known for its large red torii gate. As we approached the main hall, I couldn't help but marvel at the architecture. The vermillion pillars and green roof tiles stood out against the clear blue sky, creating a picture-perfect scene. The open courtyard, covered in white sand, provided a sense of spaciousness and tranquility. While the shrine itself was impressive, the gardens were the real highlight. For a small fee, we entered a world of winding paths, weeping cherry trees, and serene ponds. It was easy to lose ourselves in the beauty of the landscape, finding quiet corners for contemplation and reflection. The gardens evoked a sense of peace that I hadn't felt in a while. I was particularly drawn to the weeping cherry trees, their delicate pink blossoms cascading down like a gentle waterfall. It was a truly enchanting sight, and I spent a good while simply admiring their beauty.


Experience the tranquil beauty and cultural richness of Heian Shrine in Kyoto, a must-visit Shinto shrine surrounded by stunning gardens.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Next on our itinerary was the Kyoto Botanical Gardens. As someone who enjoys gardening back in Edmonton, I was eager to see what this Japanese garden had to offer. The gardens are home to a diverse collection of plants from both Japan and overseas. In March, the gardens burst into life with cherry blossoms, azaleas, and camellias. The Sakura Forest, with its 500 cherry trees, was a sight to behold, and we wandered through the various themed gardens, each with its unique charm. The greenhouse was also a highlight, filled with tropical plants and flowers that thrived regardless of the outside temperature. It was a perfect retreat from the spring air, and I enjoyed the opportunity to see plants that I wouldn't normally encounter in Canada.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kyoto Botanical Gardens, an enchanting sanctuary showcasing diverse flora and stunning landscapes in Kyoto, Japan.

From the Botanical Gardens, we made our way to the Philosopher's Path. This stone path follows a canal lined with hundreds of cherry trees. It's named after Nishida Kitaro, a Kyoto University philosophy professor who used to walk this route for daily meditation. The path was adorned with cherry blossoms, creating a pink canopy overhead. The gentle sound of the flowing water and the rustling of the leaves added to the serene atmosphere. Along the way, we passed small temples and shrines, each with its own unique history and charm. We stopped at a few of them, taking the time to admire the architecture and soak in the peaceful ambiance. I could easily see why this path was a favorite spot for contemplation and reflection. It was a perfect place to clear my head and appreciate the simple beauty of nature.


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

For lunch, we headed to Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store. This restaurant is known for its delicious tonkatsu, a Japanese dish of deep-fried pork cutlets. The entrance was subtle, tucked away in a small walkway, but the restaurant itself was spacious and inviting. I ordered the signature tonkatsu set, which came with a generous portion of crispy, golden-brown pork, rice, miso soup, and pickled vegetables. The tonkatsu was cooked to perfection, with a juicy, tender interior and a crispy, flavorful exterior. The set also included sesame seeds and a mortar, allowing me to grind my own sesame seeds and add them to the tonkatsu sauce. It was a fun and interactive experience, and it added an extra layer of flavor to the dish. The meal was incredibly satisfying, and I left feeling full and content.


Savor the best tonkatsu in Kyoto at Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store—where tradition meets flavor.

As evening approached, we decided to treat ourselves to a truly special dining experience at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION. As an electrician from Edmonton, splurging on Kobe beef isn't something I do every day, but I wanted to make this trip memorable. The restaurant exuded elegance, with a modern interior and a calm atmosphere. We were seated at a counter overlooking a large teppan hot plate, where our personal chef would prepare our meal right in front of us. We opted for a tasting menu that featured Kobe sirloin and Kobe filet. Each cut was grilled to perfection, melting in our mouths with a rich, creamy flavor. The chef also prepared a variety of vegetables and side dishes, each meticulously crafted and bursting with flavor. The entire experience was a culinary journey, and I savored every single bite. It was a reminder that sometimes, it's worth indulging in the finer things in life. I'm glad I could share this experience with my friends, making memories that we'll cherish for years to come.


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

To cap off our day, we ventured to the Turquoise Bar for a nightcap. This bar is known for its stylish atmosphere and extensive drink menu. The interior was cozy and inviting, with warm lighting and comfortable seating. The bartenders were skilled and attentive, crafting cocktails that perfectly matched our preferences. I opted for a classic whisky highball, which was expertly mixed and refreshing. We spent the rest of the evening chatting and laughing, reminiscing about the day's adventures. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Turquoise Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a stylish and inviting atmosphere.

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience Kyoto's beauty and culture with my friends. From the serene gardens to the exquisite cuisine, every moment was a treasure. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, where we plan to explore Gion, Pontocho, and Maruyama Park. But for now, I'll savor the memories of this day, knowing that it will forever hold a special place in my heart. The Higashiyama Hanatoro is also taking place during this time, so I am excited to see the lanterns light up Maruyama Park tomorrow!

I am so happy to be able to share these experiences with you all, and hope that my stories inspire you to embark on your own adventures. Until tomorrow!