Solo Cultural Exploration in Kyoto

Kyoto's Gion: Where History Whispers on Every Corner

Today was a day of wandering through time, a day where the ancient spirit of Kyoto revealed itself in the most enchanting ways. I ventured into the heart of Gion, the city's famed geisha district, ready to absorb its rich history and vibrant culture. It was a day filled with serene temples, bustling streets, and the tantalizing aromas of Kyoto's culinary delights. I was eager to see what the day would hold, especially since Lena had always dreamed of visiting Gion. I made sure to take extra photos and videos to share with her and Sofia when I got back to Berlin.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Premium Pound Gion. Locating the restaurant was a little tricky, tucked away as it was in a hidden corner of Gion, but the search was well worth it. The restaurant had a calm, Kyoto-style atmosphere. I took a seat at the counter where I could watch the chef work his magic. I opted for one of their famed Wagyu steak courses. The meat was perfectly marbled and expertly prepared teppanyaki style right before my eyes. Each bite was a melt-in-your-mouth experience, setting a high bar for the day's culinary adventures. It was a bit of a splurge, but I figured I deserved it after all the walking I'd been doing.


Experience culinary artistry at Premium Pound Gion – where French cuisine meets Japanese teppanyaki in the heart of Kyoto's historic Gion district.
With a satisfied stomach, I made my way to Kodaiji Temple. This temple, established in 1606, is a dedication to Toyotomi Hideyoshi by his wife Nene. It was a tranquil escape from the city's bustle. The temple was beautiful, and the gardens were serene, with meticulously raked rock gardens and ponds reflecting the surrounding trees. I wandered through the bamboo grove, its towering stalks swaying gently in the breeze. I learned that the temple's main buildings were constructed in a lavish style with the financial support of Tokugawa Ieyasu, Hideyoshi's successor.


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

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its temples and gardens, but in the stories etched into its very streets.

Leaving Kodaiji Temple, I decided to immerse myself in the heart of Gion. This district, Kyoto's most famous geisha area, is located around Shijo Avenue. It was fascinating to see the traditional wooden machiya merchant houses that lined the streets. I learned that these houses have narrow facades because property taxes were formerly based on street frontage. Gion's history dates back to the Heian period, when it served travelers and pilgrims visiting the nearby Yasaka Shrine. It was amazing to think that I was walking through streets that had been bustling with activity for centuries.

My exploration led me to Hanamikoji Street, Gion's most iconic lane. This street stretches from Shijo Avenue to Kenninji Temple, and it's lined with preserved machiya houses. Many of these now function as restaurants serving Kyoto-style kaiseki ryori, which is Japanese haute cuisine. I strolled along the cobblestone path, admiring the traditional architecture and soaking in the atmosphere. I'd read about the strict rules about photography in the area, so I kept my camera respectfully tucked away, mindful of the geiko and maiko who might be hurrying to their appointments. I was hoping to catch a glimpse of a geisha, but even without that, the street was captivating.


Explore Hanamikoji Street, Kyoto's iconic alleyway steeped in tradition and culture, where history meets the beauty of Japanese artistry.
For lunch, I ventured to Khaos Spice Diner, a curry restaurant that promised a unique culinary experience. It was quite different from the traditional Japanese cuisine I had been indulging in. The diner had a laid-back vibe, with film posters adorning the walls and reggae music playing in the background. I ordered their famous pork keema curry, and it was a burst of flavors. The combination of Indian spices and Japanese dashi was incredible, and the tart pickles on the side added a refreshing touch. It was comforting and delicious, a perfect midday pick-me-up.


Discover authentic Japanese curry at Khaos Spice Diner in Kyoto – a flavorful experience awaits you!
As evening approached, I decided to treat myself to an exquisite kaiseki dinner at Yoshikawa. This restaurant is known for its traditional Japanese cuisine and elegant atmosphere. The multi-course meal was a culinary journey. Each dish was a work of art, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients and the chef's meticulous attention to detail. I savored every bite, appreciating the delicate flavors and the artistry of the presentation. The experience was a true indulgence, a celebration of Kyoto's culinary heritage.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Yoshikawa, where tradition meets exceptional flavors in the heart of Kyoto.
With the day winding down, I sought out Turquoise Bar for a nightcap. The bar had a stylish and intimate atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration. I enjoyed a meticulously crafted cocktail, chatting with the bartender about Kyoto's nightlife and hidden gems. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. I learned that Turquoise Bar is known as a great alternative if you can't get into the more famous L'escamoteur bar, which made me feel like I'd stumbled upon a well-kept secret.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Turquoise Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a stylish and inviting atmosphere.
As I walked back to my hotel, the streets of Gion were quiet and serene. The lanterns cast a warm glow on the wooden facades, creating a magical ambiance. I thought about how much Lena would have loved this day. I made a mental note to plan a trip back here with her and Sofia sometime soon. Maybe we could even come during the Gion Matsuri, the district's famous festival. The thought of sharing this experience with my family filled me with joy.


Experience the charm of Kyoto at Hotel Wing International Premium Sanjo, where comfort meets convenience just steps from major attractions.
Tomorrow, I'm planning to visit Ryoan-ji, Ninna-ji Temple, and Koryu-ji Temple. I'm looking forward to exploring more of Kyoto's cultural treasures, and I'm especially excited to see the rock garden at Ryoan-ji. I'll also be stopping by the Kyoto Crafts Store to pick up some souvenirs for Lena and Sofia. It's hard to believe that my trip is coming to an end, but I'm determined to make the most of every moment. Good night from Kyoto!