Cultural Immersion in Kyoto: A Journey with My Spouse

Kyoto's Final Bow

As our journey through Kyoto draws to a close, I find myself filled with a mix of gratitude and a tinge of sadness. This trip with Lena has been nothing short of transformative, a deep dive into a culture that has captivated us both. Today, our final day, was dedicated to soaking in the last drops of Kyoto's magic, ensuring we leave with hearts full of memories and a longing to return.

Our day began with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Chihana. The restaurant itself has a long history, dating back to 1946, and has even been awarded with Michelin stars. I savored every bite, from the perfectly seasoned fish to the delicate tofu, each dish a testament to the culinary artistry that Kyoto is renowned for. Lena, ever the early bird, was already snapping photos of the intricate presentation, a habit I've grown to adore.


Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Chihana in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district - where tradition meets culinary artistry.

With our appetites satisfied, we set out to explore Nanzen-ji Temple. As we approached, the sheer size of the San-Mon gate was impressive. The temple was established about 710 years ago, and is considered to be one of Kyoto's five great Zen temples. While the plum blossoms weren't quite in full bloom, the serene atmosphere of the temple was palpable. We wandered through the expansive grounds, marveling at the karesansui garden and the subtle beauty of the subtemples. Though Nanzen-in was closed for roof repairs, we found solace in the quiet corners of Tenjuan, another sub-temple within the complex, appreciating its blend of dry landscape and Chisen Kaiyu style gardens.


Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Nanzen-ji Temple, a stunning Buddhist sanctuary nestled in the heart of Kyoto's natural landscape.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its famous landmarks, but in the quiet moments of reflection found in its serene temples and hidden alleyways.

Afterward, we took a leisurely stroll through Pontocho. The alleyway was quieter in the late afternoon than it had been during our previous visit, allowing us to appreciate the traditional wooden machiya architecture. I imagined what it must be like in the spring and Autumn, when the area is illuminated by traditional lanterns, and the trees turn vibrant hues of orange, red, and yellow. We paused to watch the ducks gliding along the Kamogawa River, their reflections shimmering in the water.


Discover the enchanting Pontocho Alley in Kyoto, where tradition meets culinary delight amidst historic wooden machiya houses.

For lunch, we decided to indulge in a truly special experience at Premium Pound Gion. This teppanyaki restaurant is nestled in a hidden corner of Gion, offering a cozy and intimate setting. We opted for the A5 Wagyu beef, and it was, without exaggeration, the best steak I've ever had. The chef, Yukio, was incredibly skilled and engaging, explaining each cut and cooking technique with passion. Lena, who usually prefers lighter fare, was equally impressed, declaring it a culinary highlight of our trip. We even exchanged some wine with other guests, making the meal even more memorable.


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

Following our exceptional lunch, we ventured into the Nishiki Market area. There, we visited Kazari Nishiki, a charming shop offering seasonal Japanese goods. Lena, always on the lookout for unique souvenirs, spent ages browsing the selection of crafts and textiles. The owner of the shop changes the store's looks and product mix each month with the seasons of Kyoto in mind. We ended up purchasing a couple of beautifully crafted fans and a silk scarf, mementos that will forever remind us of our time in Kyoto.


Discover the artistry of Kyoto at Kazari Nishiki, your ultimate destination for authentic Japanese souvenirs and traditional crafts.

As evening approached, we made our way to Kizahashi for our final dinner in Kyoto. Located in The Thousand Kyoto hotel, the restaurant offered a modern take on traditional Kyoto cuisine. We opted for the sake pairing menu, eager to sample some of the local brews. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The sommelier was knowledgeable and passionate, guiding us through the nuances of each sake. It was the perfect ending to our culinary journey through Kyoto.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Kizahashi in Kyoto, where seasonal ingredients meet traditional artistry in every dish.

Reflecting on our time in Kyoto, I'm struck by the city's ability to seamlessly blend tradition and modernity. From the ancient temples to the bustling markets, every corner of Kyoto has a story to tell. Lena and I have created memories that will last a lifetime, and I know we'll be back to explore more of this enchanting city.

Tomorrow marks the end of our trip, as we prepare to journey back to Berlin. While I'm eager to return to our familiar life, a part of me will forever remain in Kyoto, wandering through its serene gardens and savoring its exquisite cuisine. This trip has not only deepened my appreciation for Japanese culture but has also strengthened the bond between Lena and me. As we pack our bags, I can't help but smile, knowing that this is just the beginning of our adventures together.

Kyoto, thank you for the memories. Until we meet again.

This trip has reminded me of something I read recently:

Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.