Exploring Kyoto's Historical Wonders with Friends

Gion's Timeless Charm

Today was a day of immersing ourselves in the heart of Kyoto's historical and cultural richness. From exploring ancient shrines to savoring exquisite cuisine, every moment felt like stepping back in time. Join me as I recount our adventures in Gion, a district that perfectly encapsulates the essence of traditional Japan.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Sakuragawa. It was a traditional Japanese breakfast, and the delicate flavors were a gentle awakening for the senses. I savored every bite, thinking about how different this was from my usual arepas back in Montreal. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes for Sophie and Mateo when I get back home. I think they’d really enjoy the subtle nuances of Japanese cuisine. Sakuragawa, with its serene ambiance, was the perfect start to a day of exploration.


Discover authentic Kaiseki dining at Sakuragawa in Kyoto – where culinary artistry meets traditional Japanese flavors.

After breakfast, we ventured into Gion, Kyoto's most famous geisha district. The area is steeped in history, dating back to the Middle Ages when it served travelers and pilgrims visiting the nearby Yasaka Shrine. As a restoration technician, I was particularly fascinated by the well-preserved wooden machiya townhouses that lined the narrow streets. The craftsmanship and attention to detail in these buildings were truly remarkable. It's inspiring to see how traditional architecture can be maintained and appreciated even in modern times. The area was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to experience the unique atmosphere of Gion.

Gion is not just a place; it's a journey through time, where every corner whispers tales of ancient traditions and timeless beauty.

Our next stop was the magnificent Yasaka Shrine. Founded over 1350 years ago, this Shinto shrine is a cultural landmark and a symbol of Kyoto's enduring heritage. The shrine is dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, a god of storms and sea in Japanese mythology, along with his wife and children. I found myself captivated by the vibrant colors of the shrine and the intricate details of its architecture. The air was filled with a sense of reverence and tranquility. As we walked through the grounds, I couldn't help but reflect on the countless generations who have come here to pay their respects and seek blessings.


Explore the spiritual heart of Kyoto at Yasaka Shrine, a stunning Shinto shrine surrounded by vibrant festivals and serene beauty.

Yasaka Shrine is also famous for hosting the Gion Matsuri, one of Japan's largest and most celebrated festivals. Although we weren't visiting during the festival, I could still feel the energy and excitement that this event brings to the city. The shrine's street-facing vermilion gate is a prominent landmark, and the entire area exudes a sense of character and charm. I learned that during the time when State Shinto was supported by the government, Yasaka Shrine was classified as a first-ranked shrine of importance, highlighting its significance in Japanese culture.

For lunch, we indulged in a culinary experience at Chihana, a restaurant renowned for its Kaiseki cuisine. Kaiseki is a traditional Japanese multi-course meal characterized by its exquisite presentation and seasonal ingredients. Chihana is located in a small alley near Yasaka Shrine, and it has been awarded three stars by a world-renowned gourmet guide for nine consecutive years. The restaurant was founded in 1946, and it has a rich history of captivating literary figures and politicians with its poetic Itamae Kappo, a small but exquisite culinary masterpiece.


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

The meal at Chihana was nothing short of extraordinary. Each course was a work of art, carefully crafted to showcase the flavors of the season. I was particularly impressed by the appetizer, a combination of seasonal fruits and seafood that was both refreshing and flavorful. The soup dish, which included raw yuba, represented the four seasons of Japan, a testament to the chef's attention to detail and artistic vision. The white fish course featured fish sourced from Setouchi, and the other ingredients were brought in from Nishiki Market, where they have long been traded. The combination of classic Japanese cuisine and sophisticated urban cuisine created an unforgettable dining experience. I savored every moment, appreciating the skill and artistry that went into each dish.

After our sumptuous lunch, we strolled through Pontocho, a narrow alley that runs along the Kamogawa River. Pontocho is known for its atmospheric charm and its wide array of restaurants and bars. The alley dates back to the late 16th century when it was established as an entertainment district. Today, it retains its traditional atmosphere with its wooden buildings and lantern-lit streets. It’s a place where you can easily imagine geishas hurrying to their appointments in the evening.


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

As we walked along Pontocho, we were captivated by the unique ambiance of the area. The narrow cobblestone street was lined with traditional wooden buildings, and the air was filled with the sounds of laughter and conversation. Many of the restaurants in Pontocho offer kawayuka, or riverside dining, from May to September. These temporary platforms over the Kamogawa River provide a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Although it wasn't kawayuka season, I could still appreciate the charm and beauty of the river and the surrounding scenery.

In the evening, we had a truly special dining experience at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION. This restaurant is known for serving the finest Japanese beef, including Kobe beef, as steak. MOURIYA started its operation in 1885 in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, and the Kyoto location is the first venture beyond Kobe. The restaurant's storefront blends harmoniously with the ancient capital's allure, and the interior features an elegant Japanese-inspired ambiance.


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

The Kobe beef steak at MOURIYA GION was absolutely divine. The meat was tender, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. I learned that MOURIYA offers A5 grade Kobe beef, raised by designated farmers to meet stringent standards. They also offer Mouriya Select Beef from Japan, which are cuts carefully chosen for their high quality, exceptional marbling, fat quality, and tender texture. The expert chefs grilled the steaks before our eyes, adding to the overall dining experience. In addition to the Kobe beef, MOURIYA GION also offers teppan-grilled seafood and fresh seasonal vegetables sourced from Kyoto's local farms. The entire meal was a celebration of Japanese cuisine and hospitality.

To cap off our day, we visited The Common One Bar Kyoto, a modern bar that immerses you in the traditional atmosphere of Kyoto. The bar features tatami rooms and a tea room, creating a space where tradition and modernity blend beautifully. The attentive service from the bartenders and the creative food offerings, such as smoked snacks, provide visitors with a special experience. It was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at The Common One Bar, where tradition meets innovation in every cocktail.

The Common One Bar Kyoto is a bit of a hidden gem, and the entrance is not easy to find. But once inside, you are transported to a world of tranquility and sophistication. I ordered a brandy-based cocktail, which was expertly crafted and bursting with flavor. The bar has been selected as one of the top 100 bars in 2022, and it's easy to see why. The combination of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern mixology creates a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

As I sipped my cocktail, I thought about how fortunate I am to be able to experience the beauty and culture of Kyoto with my friends. It's a journey that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Philosopher's Path and Nanzen-ji, continuing our immersion into Kyoto's rich history and natural beauty. I'm already looking forward to the adventures that await us.

Before heading back to the hotel, I took a moment to appreciate the beauty of Gion at night. The streets were illuminated by lanterns, and the air was filled with a sense of magic and mystery. I felt a deep connection to this ancient city and its timeless traditions. It's a place that has captured my heart, and I know that I will never forget my time here.

This trip has been such a welcome change from the dust and grime of my restoration work back in Montreal. Don't get me wrong, I love my job, but there's something incredibly restorative about immersing myself in a culture that values preservation and tradition as much as I do. It’s a reminder of why I chose this profession in the first place. Maybe I can bring some of this inspiration back with me and apply it to my work in Montreal. After all, every city has its own unique history and architectural heritage, just waiting to be discovered and preserved.

As I close out this blog post, I'm filled with gratitude for the experiences of today. Gion has truly captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Until then, sayonara!