Exploring Kyoto's Historical Wonders with Friends

Kyoto's Hidden Gems

Today was a day of delightful contrasts here in Kyoto! We dove headfirst into the vibrant world of manga, found serenity amidst blooming flowers, and ended the day with some of the most inventive gyoza I've ever tasted. It's amazing how much this city has to offer, and I’m so excited to share my experiences with you all.

Our first stop was the Kyoto International Manga Museum. As a restorer of historical buildings, I'm usually surrounded by ancient artifacts and architectural blueprints. But today, I traded the past for the present, immersing myself in the colorful and dynamic world of Japanese comics.


Explore the rich world of Japanese comics at Kyoto International Manga Museum, a cultural gem in Kyoto offering extensive manga collections and engaging exhibitions.

I met up with my friends, and we made our way to the museum. Housed in a former elementary school, the building itself had a nostalgic charm. The moment we stepped inside, we were greeted by towering walls lined with manga – a sight that would make any comic book enthusiast's heart skip a beat.

I was surprised by the sheer variety of manga on display. From classic series to contemporary works, there was something for everyone. I even stumbled upon a section dedicated to translated manga, which made it easier for Sophie and me to appreciate the stories. We spent hours browsing the shelves, discovering new artists and genres.

One of the highlights was the 'Wall of Manga,' a seemingly endless collection of over 50,000 books! It was incredible to see so many people, young and old, engrossed in reading. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, with visitors sprawled out on the floors and benches, completely lost in their own worlds.

There were also exhibits showcasing the history of manga and its cultural impact. I learned about the evolution of the art form, from its early beginnings to its current global popularity. It was fascinating to see how manga has influenced various aspects of Japanese society, from fashion to film.

After our manga adventure, we decided to embrace the natural beauty of Kyoto at the Kyoto Botanical Gardens. The gardens were a welcome escape from the bustling city. The air was fresh and clean, and the scenery was simply breathtaking.


Explore the Kyoto Botanical Gardens, a tranquil oasis showcasing diverse flora and stunning landscapes in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.

As it's early May, the gardens were in full bloom. The cherry blossoms were mostly gone, but there were still plenty of other flowers to admire. The vibrant colors of the tulips, azaleas, and irises created a stunning tapestry of beauty. We wandered through the different themed gardens, each with its own unique charm.

The conservatory was particularly impressive. It housed a diverse collection of tropical plants, orchids, and bromeliads. It felt like stepping into a different world, with lush greenery and exotic blooms at every turn. I was especially fascinated by the carnivorous plants, which seemed straight out of a science fiction movie.

We spent a leisurely afternoon strolling through the gardens, soaking up the sun and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. It was the perfect way to unwind and recharge after our manga marathon. I even tried my hand at sketching some of the flowers, channeling my inner artist.

Before dinner, we made a quick stop at Sanrio Gallery Kyoto. I knew Sophie and Mateo would appreciate it, and I was right. The store was a kawaii paradise, filled with adorable merchandise featuring Hello Kitty, My Melody, and other beloved Sanrio characters.


Discover the enchanting world of Sanrio at Sanrio Gallery Kyoto, where kawaii characters come to life in a delightful shopping experience.

Sophie was particularly excited about the Hello Kitty items, while Mateo gravitated towards the Pokemon section. I couldn't resist buying a small souvenir for myself – a cute little keychain with a Daruma doll dressed as Hello Kitty. It's the perfect reminder of my time in Kyoto.

For dinner, we ventured off the beaten path to Anzukko, a hidden gyoza bar near Sanjo Station. This place was a true gem, recommended by a local we met at the Manga Museum. The restaurant was small and cozy, with a lively atmosphere.


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

We started with their signature Anzukko Gyoza, which were cooked in a cast iron pot and served with a crispy, lacy crust. The filling was juicy and flavorful, with a hint of spice. They were so good that we ordered a second round! We also tried their seafood boiled dumplings, which were filled with scallop and dried shrimp. They were light and refreshing, with a delicate flavor.

The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. They even gave us some recommendations for other local specialties to try. It was a truly authentic and memorable dining experience.

And, of course, no day in Kyoto would be complete without trying some local cuisine. We had breakfast at Kyoto cuisine Hanasaki Nishikiten, a charming spot near Nishiki Market. The traditional Japanese breakfast set was a delightful way to start the day, with a variety of small dishes showcasing the flavors of Kyoto.


Discover authentic Kyoto cuisine at Hanasaki Nishikiten—where tradition meets culinary artistry in every exquisite dish.

We also stopped for lunch at Ajikyu, a tiny izakaya known for its fresh seafood. The sashimi was incredibly fresh and flavorful, and the grilled fish was cooked to perfection. It was a truly authentic and memorable dining experience.


Discover authentic Japanese dining at Ajikyu in Kyoto—where tradition meets exquisite culinary artistry.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm struck by the incredible diversity of Kyoto. From the vibrant world of manga to the serene beauty of the botanical gardens, this city has something to offer everyone. And with each passing day, I'm discovering new and exciting things to see and do. It’s these contrasts that make Kyoto so special.

Sometimes, the most enriching travel experiences come from embracing unexpected contrasts.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Tōfuku-ji Temple and Sanjūsangendō Temple. I'm particularly excited to see the stunning collection of statues at Sanjūsangendō. And in the evening, we might check out KITSUNE KYOTO, a local nightclub. It sounds like a fun way to experience Kyoto's nightlife.

I’m also thinking of picking up that travel adapter I forgot. It would be useful to have for the rest of the trip. And perhaps some sunscreen too, now that the sun is starting to peek out more often.

Until then, sayonara from Kyoto!

P.S. I also wanted to share a little anecdote from today. While we were at the Manga Museum, I overheard a young boy explaining the plot of his favorite manga to his grandmother. It was such a heartwarming scene, and it reminded me of how much I miss sharing stories with Mateo back home. I can't wait to tell him all about my adventures in Kyoto when I get back.

And, of course, it wouldn't be a proper day of exploration without stumbling upon a few unexpected surprises. While wandering through the backstreets of Kyoto, we stumbled upon a small shop selling traditional Peruvian crafts. It was such a pleasant surprise to see a piece of my homeland so far away from home. I bought a small woven tapestry to remind me of my roots.

I also wanted to mention something funny that happened at dinner. Sophie, who is usually a very adventurous eater, accidentally ordered a dish that was far spicier than she anticipated. Her face turned bright red, and she started fanning herself furiously. It was quite a sight to behold, and we all had a good laugh about it.

Finally, I wanted to share a thought about the importance of cultural preservation. As a restoration technician, I'm passionate about preserving historical buildings and artifacts. But I've come to realize that cultural preservation extends beyond physical objects. It also includes preserving traditions, stories, and art forms like manga. These cultural expressions are just as important to a society's identity as its historical landmarks. They provide a sense of continuity and connection to the past, and they enrich our lives in countless ways.

As I continue my journey through Kyoto, I'm committed to seeking out opportunities to learn about and support cultural preservation efforts. I believe that it's our responsibility to protect these treasures for future generations.

With that, I bid you goodnight from Kyoto. May your dreams be filled with manga, gardens, and gyoza!