Exploring Kyoto's Historical Wonders with Friends

Whispers of Ancient Kyoto

Today was a day filled with the echoes of old Japan, a journey through time and tradition that left me breathless. I'm so excited to share the day's adventures with you, where every corner turned revealed another layer of Kyoto's captivating soul.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at The Cellar Kyoto. The restaurant was a hidden gem, offering a cozy and stylish ambiance. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, which included grilled fish, tamagoyaki, miso soup, and an assortment of small side dishes. It was a delicious and nourishing start to the day, providing the energy we needed for our explorations.


Discover culinary excellence at The Cellar Kyoto - where creative cuisine meets fine wine in a stylish setting.

With our bellies full and spirits high, my friends and I made our way to Kiyomizu-dera. The temple is nestled in the hills of Kyoto, and the walk up to it was an experience in itself. We passed through charming streets lined with shops selling traditional crafts and snacks. The air was filled with the scent of incense and the sounds of bustling crowds, a vibrant mix of locals and tourists alike. It reminded me of the vibrant markets back in Huancavelica, Peru, where the energy of the community is palpable in every interaction.


Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto, where culture and nature harmoniously blend.

As we approached Kiyomizu-dera, the iconic wooden stage came into view, perched dramatically on the hillside. The temple's history dates back over 1250 years, founded in 778, and it is dedicated to the Buddhist deity Kannon, the goddess of mercy and compassion. The main hall, a National Treasure, was rebuilt in 1633 without the use of any nails. The craftsmanship and attention to detail were simply astounding. As a restoration technician, I couldn't help but marvel at the skill and dedication of the artisans who built this magnificent structure.

The view from the stage was breathtaking. Kyoto stretched out before us, a sea of rooftops and greenery, with the mountains in the distance providing a stunning backdrop. It was easy to see why this spot is so popular with tourists from all over the world. I took a moment to soak it all in, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such beauty with my friends. The temple is undergoing some renovations, but it did not detract from the overall experience.

The beauty of Kiyomizu-dera is not just in its architecture, but in the way it connects you to the past and to the spirit of Kyoto.

We explored the temple grounds, visiting the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors can drink from three streams of water, each said to have different purifying properties: longevity, success in studies, and a fortuitous love life. Of course, we all took a sip, hoping for a little bit of each! I also admired the dragon statues, which are considered divine creatures associated with water and rain, believed to bring good fortune and protect against demons entering the temple. The dragon's ability to fly and control the weather symbolizes its power.

After Kiyomizu-dera, we strolled down Sannenzaka, a picturesque, stone-paved street leading away from the temple. The street is lined with traditional shops and teahouses, offering a glimpse into old Kyoto. Sannenzaka, or Sannen-zaka, is a historic cobblestone street located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto, Japan. There are various theories about the origin of Sannenzaka, but the most common one is that it is named “Sannei-no-Saka,” meaning “easy childbirth slope,” because it leads to the “Koyasu no To,” a pagoda known for safe childbirth within the precincts of Kiyomizu Temple. It is said that passing through this slope to visit Kiyomizu Temple will lead to safe childbirth. According to legend, it was believed that if one fell on the stone steps of this slope, they would die within three years. We were careful to watch our step!


Discover the historic allure of Sannenzaka, a traditional street in Kyoto, filled with wooden architecture, unique shops, and stunning views of Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

We stopped at a few shops, admiring the local crafts and picking up some souvenirs for our families back home. I found a beautiful hand-painted fan for Sophie, and Mateo will love the little samurai figurine I found. The atmosphere was magical, like stepping back in time to a more peaceful era. The area has a rich history, dating back to the Heian period, and it's renowned for its well-preserved traditional architecture and historical significance. I could easily imagine myself living here, surrounded by the beauty and tranquility of old Kyoto.

For lunch, we indulged in a delightful meal at Gion Mikaku. This restaurant, with its history dating back to 1927, specializes in Wagyu beef, and it was an experience to remember. We tried the Teppan-yaki steak, cooked to perfection right in front of us. The meat was tender and flavorful, and the chef's skill was truly impressive. Gion Mikaku exclusively serves unbred Tajima female cattle, and they personally select the finest meat by visiting the source. It was a true culinary highlight of our trip so far. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of the flavors when I get back home; perhaps Sophie and Mateo will enjoy a Peruvian twist on Japanese cuisine.


Discover Gion Mikaku, where exceptional steak meets authentic Japanese culture in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district.

As evening approached, we decided to experience Kyoto's nightlife. We headed to WORLD KYOTO, a popular nightclub known for its lively atmosphere and international DJs. The club has two levels, a massive dance floor, and even lockers to stow away belongings. It was a fun and energetic way to end the day, dancing to the latest hits and enjoying the company of fellow travelers. International DJs play on a regular basis and there are several special events like Korean and Reggae nights. One of my friends even met a local who gave us some tips on hidden gems in Kyoto. I’m keen to explore these in the coming days.


Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Kyoto at WORLD KYOTO, where music, dance, and culture collide for an unforgettable experience.

Before heading back to the hotel, we grabbed a late dinner at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO, a vegan restaurant known for its delicious plant-based cuisine. I opted for the vegan burger, which was surprisingly satisfying. The restaurant also offers a variety of desserts, including matcha pancakes and vegan cheesecake. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, a perfect way to wind down after a long day of exploring. I was particularly impressed with the pancakes - I might even try my hand at making some vegan pancakes for Mateo when I return to Montreal.


Discover exquisite vegan delights at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO – where culinary creativity meets sustainable living.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences of today. Kyoto has a way of captivating the soul, of transporting you to another time and place. I'm excited for what tomorrow will bring, as we plan to visit Arashiyama and its famous bamboo forest. I've heard it's a magical place, and I can't wait to see it for myself. We are planning on visiting Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Tenryu-ji Temple and explore the local shops in the area. I am also hoping to find some inspiration for my next restoration project.

Goodnight from Kyoto!