Cultural Exploration in Kyoto with Friends

Kyoto's Gentle Embrace

Today was a beautiful blend of the old and new, the serene and the spicy, all wrapped up in the gentle embrace of Kyoto. My friends and I set out to explore some of the city's most iconic spots, and let me tell you, it was a day filled with delightful surprises and unforgettable moments. From tranquil temples to a culinary adventure, Kyoto certainly knows how to captivate the senses.

Our day began with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Nakamura. I was excited to try it, especially knowing about their Eggs Benedict Gratin with Yuzu and Miso Flavored Hollandaise Sauce. Unfortunately, that was only part of the American breakfast buffet, so I ordered the traditional Japanese breakfast instead. The restaurant was serene, and the food was a delicate dance of flavors that woke up my palate. It was the perfect way to prepare for a day of exploring.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Kodaiji Temple, a historical Buddhist temple in Kyoto, showcasing stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.

Next on our itinerary was Kodaiji Temple. As we approached, the temple exuded an aura of calm. Founded in 1606 by Nene, the widow of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, it serves as a tribute to her late husband. The gardens were a mix of traditional Japanese design and lush greenery, creating a space perfect for reflection. Wandering through the bamboo grove, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. The play of light and shadow through the bamboo stalks was simply magical. I managed to capture some beautiful shots with my camera, though no photo could truly capture the feeling of being there.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest moments, like a quiet walk through a bamboo forest or a shared meal with friends.

Experience the natural beauty of Maruyama Park in Kyoto, a serene oasis filled with cherry blossoms and cultural heritage.

After the temple, we strolled through Maruyama Park. Even though it's February, the park had a unique charm. I've read that in spring, it becomes a famous and crowded spot for *hanami* in Kyoto. While the cherry blossoms weren't in bloom yet, the park was still lovely. We found a cozy spot to sit and chat, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. It was a perfect moment of connection with my friends, sharing stories and laughter amidst the beauty of nature. Apparently, closer to cherry blossom season, Maruyama Park hosts food stalls and events, and the illuminated Great Weeping Cherry Tree creates a mesmerizing spectacle at night. I'm making a mental note to come back during that time!


Explore D&DEPARTMENT KYOTO, where traditional artistry meets culinary excellence in a tranquil temple setting.

Our next stop was D&DEPARTMENT KYOTO. Housed in a charming building, the shop focuses on designer housewares, kitchen goods, and foods. Conceived by Kenmei Nagaoka, a professor at Kyoto University of Art and Design, the store sells products such as sturdy tea mugs and glass *tokkuri* (Japanese sake sets), and highlights specialty, small-batch food producers whom they've met in person. I was particularly drawn to the Freitag bags from Switzerland, made from recycled truck tarps. It's amazing to see how sustainability and design can come together. I picked up a few unique souvenirs, including some local spices and a beautiful handmade tea mug, perfect for my Berlin apartment.


Discover authentic Japanese curry at Khaos Spice Diner in Kyoto – a flavorful experience awaits you!

As lunchtime rolled around, we decided to spice things up at Khaos Spice Diner. The restaurant had a laid-back vibe, with reggae music playing in the background. I opted for the three-curry plate, which included their signature pork keema curry, a chicken curry, and a chef's special. The combination of Indian spices and Japanese *dashi* was incredible, and the tart pickles on the side added a perfect jolt of brightness. It was definitely a memorable culinary experience.


Discover the enchanting world of traditional Japanese arts at Gion Corner in Kyoto, a cultural hub showcasing geisha performances and more.

In the late afternoon, we ventured into Gion, Kyoto's geisha district. The streets were bustling with tourists and locals alike. We made our way to Gion Corner, a theater showcasing traditional Japanese performing arts. The show included a tea ceremony, *koto* music, flower arrangement, *bugaku* dance, *kyogen* comedy, *kyomai* dance, and a puppet play. It was a fantastic way to experience a variety of Japanese arts in one go. The *kyomai* dance performed by the *maiko* was particularly captivating, with its elegant movements and beautiful costumes.


Experience authentic Middle Eastern cuisine at Mezopotamia Kebab House in Kyoto - where every bite tells a story.

For dinner, we decided on Mezopotamia Kebab House. I was surprised to find such a place in Kyoto, but I was also intrigued. The kebab was delicious, with tender meat and flavorful spices. It was a satisfying end to a long day of exploring. I chatted with the friendly staff, who were happy to share stories about their culture and cuisine. It's always interesting to find unexpected cultural connections in different parts of the world.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our experiences. Kyoto had charmed us with its blend of tradition and modernity, serenity and spice. I feel incredibly grateful to have shared this day with my friends, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, Tō-ji Temple, and Kyoto Tower. I'm particularly excited about Fushimi Inari Taisha with its thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding up the mountain. It's supposed to be an incredible sight, and I can't wait to capture it with my camera. We're also planning to visit Bar K6 for a nightcap. It's been recommended as a great spot for a relaxing drink after a day of sightseeing. I'm looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery in this captivating city.

Back in Berlin, I'll definitely try to recreate some of the dishes I've tasted here, especially that amazing curry from Khaos Spice Diner. Maybe I'll even try my hand at making *shiro-miso zouni*, though I doubt it will be as good as the one I had at Nakamura. But hey, a little taste of Kyoto in my own kitchen can't hurt, right?

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” This quote resonates deeply with me, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to turn the pages of this book, one city at a time. Kyoto, you have been a chapter filled with beauty, culture, and delicious discoveries. Thank you for the memories!

I'm also glad I packed my phrasebook, even though I still struggle with the language. Next time, I'll be sure to bring a raincoat and a portable power bank, as I completely forgot them this time. But hey, that's what makes travel so exciting, right? You never know what adventures await, and sometimes, the best memories are made when things don't go exactly as planned.