Solo Cultural Exploration in Kyoto, Japan

A Grand Finale in Kyoto

As my two-week adventure in Kyoto draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey I've had. From serene temples to bustling markets, this city has captivated me with its rich culture and history. Today, I wanted to soak in a few last experiences that truly embody the spirit of Kyoto before heading back to Berlin. It's a bittersweet feeling, but I'm determined to make the most of my final day.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Anzukko, a local gem I'd heard whispers about from fellow travelers. Tucked away near Sanjo Station, this cozy spot is famed for its inventive gyoza. I opted for the set menu, eager to sample a variety of flavors. The gyoza were cooked to perfection, each bite bursting with unique and delicious fillings. The crispy, lacy edges of the dumplings gave way to a moist, flavorful center, hinting at spices like cinnamon and coriander. I especially enjoyed the umeboshi and shiso gyoza, the tart plum paste cutting through the richness of the pork. Paired with a cold beer, it was the perfect way to start the day. It was a great way to start the day, and I made a mental note to try and recreate some of the flavors back home for Greta.


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

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

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I headed to the Kyoto Railway Museum. As someone fascinated by history and engineering, I was excited to explore Japan's railway heritage. The museum is a train enthusiast's paradise, showcasing an impressive collection of locomotives, from steam engines to modern bullet trains. I spent hours wandering through the exhibits, marveling at the sheer size and complexity of these machines. I even had the chance to climb aboard some of the trains, imagining what it must have been like to travel across Japan in a bygone era.


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.

One of the highlights was the 500 Series Shinkansen, a sleek and futuristic bullet train that once held the title of the world's fastest. Seeing it up close, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the ingenuity and innovation that went into its design. The museum also had interactive exhibits, including driving simulators and dioramas, which made the experience even more engaging. I found myself lost in the details, learning about the history of Japan's railway network and the impact it had on the country's development.

After immersing myself in the world of trains, it was time for a culinary adventure: a sushi-making class. I've always admired the artistry and precision of sushi chefs, and I was eager to learn the basics of this traditional Japanese cuisine. The class was held in a cozy studio, where a friendly instructor guided us through the process of preparing sushi rice, cutting fish, and assembling nigiri and maki rolls. I was surprised at how challenging it was to get the rice just right, but with practice, I started to get the hang of it. The instructor shared tips on selecting the freshest ingredients and explained the importance of balance and harmony in sushi making.


Discover the culinary secrets of sushi making in Kyoto with hands-on classes led by expert chefs, perfect for all skill levels.

As I carefully crafted each piece of sushi, I felt a sense of connection to Japanese culture and tradition. It was more than just a cooking class; it was a lesson in mindfulness and attention to detail. And of course, the best part was tasting our creations! I savored each bite of the sushi I had made, appreciating the delicate flavors and textures. I even managed to make a few rolls that looked almost as good as the ones in the restaurants. I will be sure to impress Greta with my new sushi skills.

For lunch, I decided to treat myself to a special Kaiseki experience at Nishikawa. Nestled near Yasaka Shrine, the restaurant boasts a luxurious sukiya-style building crafted from bamboo and cypress. Chef Masayoshi Nishikawa, trained in a renowned Kyoto establishment, presents a seasonal kaiseki menu that changes daily based on the freshest ingredients. I was the only foreigner in the restaurant, which felt a little weird initially, but I was able to use my limited Japanese to make some small talk with some of the other guests. The standout dishes included the mushroom tempura (although the sauce makes it look a bit gross), the grilled lobster with miso sauce, and the sushi which is eaten like a sando with the seaweed. Product quality was excellent throughout the menu, and the only disappointing dish was the soup with Kyoto beef because it was overcooked. I would absolutely recommend people visit this restaurant if they can get a reservation, as it is a stellar way to experience traditional Japanese cuisine.


Experience exquisite Kaiseki dining at Nishikawa in Kyoto – where tradition meets artistry for an unforgettable culinary adventure.

As evening approached, I sought out a place to unwind and reflect on my Kyoto adventure. I decided to check out Rocking Bar ING, a quirky little spot recommended by a fellow traveler. This bar is a hidden gem, tucked away on Kiyamachi Street. As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by a blast of rock music and a dimly lit, cozy atmosphere. The owner, Hako, is a music fanatic with an encyclopedic knowledge of rock history. He has an impressive collection of vinyl records, spanning from the 1960s to the 1990s. I requested a few of my favorite tunes, and Hako happily obliged, spinning the records with enthusiasm. The bar was filled with locals and tourists alike, all united by their love of rock music. I struck up a conversation with a group of Japanese students who were eager to practice their English. We talked about music, travel, and our shared experiences in Kyoto. It was a fun and lively atmosphere, and I felt like I had found a little slice of home in this faraway land.


Discover Rocking Bar ING in Kyoto, where the spirit of rock music comes alive amidst an eclectic atmosphere and vibrant nightlife.

Premium Pound Gion was my choice for a final dinner in Kyoto. This teppanyaki restaurant offered an intimate dining experience, with only a handful of seats at the counter. I watched in amazement as the chef skillfully prepared each dish on the hot grill, using the finest cuts of Japanese beef. The aroma of sizzling meat filled the air, tantalizing my taste buds. The chef was friendly and engaging, explaining the different cuts of beef and offering recommendations on how to best enjoy them. The beef was cooked to perfection, melting in my mouth with each bite. It was a truly decadent and unforgettable meal. I will be hard pressed to go back to teppanyaki in the US after this.


Experience culinary artistry at Premium Pound Gion – where French cuisine meets Japanese teppanyaki in the heart of Kyoto's historic Gion district.

As my final day in Kyoto comes to an end, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and contentment. This solo journey has been an incredible experience, allowing me to immerse myself in Japanese culture, explore ancient temples, and connect with people from all walks of life. I've learned so much about myself and the world around me. Kyoto has a way of getting under your skin, leaving an indelible mark on your heart. I know that I'll carry the memories and lessons from this trip with me for years to come. And who knows, maybe one day I'll return to this magical city and continue my cultural exploration. For now, it's time to say goodbye to Kyoto and prepare for the journey back to Berlin. But I'll always cherish the time I spent here, and I'll never forget the lessons I learned along the way.

As I pack my bags, I realize that I forgot to buy a power adapter for Japanese outlets and a travel umbrella. A minor oversight, but a reminder that even the most meticulously planned trips can have unexpected twists and turns. It's all part of the adventure, and I wouldn't have it any other way. I'll be sure to add these items to my packing list for future trips.

Tomorrow, I will be heading back to Berlin. It's time to say sayonara to Kyoto, but I will never forget my time here. I know that Greta will be happy to see me, and I am excited to share my stories and experiences with her. Until next time, Kyoto! This has been Joseph Alexander, signing off.