Cultural Exploration in Kyoto with Friends

Sacred Steps and Lively Beats in Kyoto

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of ancient spirituality and modern vibrancy. Kyoto, you continue to surprise and enchant me! From the serene heights of Kiyomizu-dera to the pulsing heart of Kyoto's nightlife, every moment was a new discovery.


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

The day started with a delightful breakfast at Jiki Miyazawa. The Michelin guide lists it as a one-star restaurant. It was a traditional Japanese breakfast, and it was the perfect way to prepare for a day of exploring. The sesame tofu was something else, I tell you! Light and delicious, like a cloud in my mouth. It’s the kind of meal that makes you appreciate the simple things in life.

With a full stomach and eager hearts, my friends and I made our way to Kiyomizu-dera. The temple is located on Mt. Otowa. The crisp February air nipped at our cheeks as we began our ascent, the path winding through the charming streets leading up to the temple. Even in winter, Kyoto exudes a special kind of magic, a sense of history layered upon every stone and tile.

Kiyomizu-dera, or Temple of Pure Water, was founded in 778 CE by Enchin Shonin, and it was a truly breathtaking sight. The temple’s wooden stage juts out dramatically from the hillside, offering panoramic views of Kyoto. The entire structure is supported by 168 pillars. It was incredible to see the entire city from that vantage point. The Main Hall is a National Treasure of Japan and the complex is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. I took so many photos, trying to capture the essence of the moment, but no image can truly do it justice.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its temples and gardens, but in the way it seamlessly blends the ancient with the modern, creating a tapestry of experiences that nourish the soul.

After soaking in the views and the spiritual atmosphere of Kiyomizu-dera, we strolled down Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka. These historic streets are lined with traditional shops selling everything from sweets and crafts to kimonos and sake. Sannenzaka was built in 808 and Ninenzaka in 807. Both streets are important Preserved Districts for their historic buildings. It felt like stepping back in time, wandering through the narrow lanes, admiring the traditional architecture, and soaking up the atmosphere. I picked up a few souvenirs – a beautiful calligraphy brush and some local sweets – to remind me of this special day.


Discover Sannenzaka, a historic street in Kyoto, where traditional charm meets stunning views and delightful local cuisine.


Experience Ninenzaka's historical charm with traditional wooden structures, vibrant shops, and serene tea houses in the heart of Kyoto.

Legend has it that if you fall on Sannenzaka, you'll die within three years, and if you fall on Ninenzaka, you're doomed to two years of bad luck. We made sure to tread carefully!

For lunch, we stopped at The Cellar Kyoto. The restaurant is located 188 meters from Kyoto Shiyakusho Mae. It was a delightful surprise. The restaurant has a hidden entrance, which was a bit difficult to find, but once inside, we were greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The Cellar is known for its creative cuisine and extensive wine list. I opted for a seasonal tasting menu, and each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The vegetables tasted like they had just been picked from the garden. My friends and I enjoyed a bottle of local sake, which paired perfectly with the meal.


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

As evening approached, we headed back to our hotel for a quick refresh before diving into Kyoto's nightlife. For dinner, we chose Hyoto Shijo Karasuma, known for its exquisite shabu-shabu. The restaurant is known for its high-quality Japanese ingredients. The staff were incredibly welcoming, and the atmosphere was both cozy and sophisticated. I chose a shabu shabu set, and the quality of the meat was exceptional. The broth was rich and flavorful. It was the perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors with exquisite hot pot and Kaiseki dishes at Hyoto Shijo Karasuma in Kyoto.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to experience Kyoto's club scene. WORLD KYOTO was our destination, known as the largest and supposedly best club in Kyoto. The club has two levels, a massive dance floor, and lockers. I’ll admit, I was a bit hesitant at first – I haven't been clubbing in ages! But the moment we stepped inside, the energy was infectious. The music was pumping, the crowd was lively, and the atmosphere was electric. I even managed to bust out a few salsa moves, much to the amusement (and slight embarrassment) of my friends. It was a fun way to end a day of cultural immersion.


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

Before heading out, I read that World Kyoto almost looks like a dungeon that has been converted into a thriving nightlife address. Indeed, the club was a perfect place to party in the former capital of Japan. I really enjoyed the music and the drinks, and the staff was very friendly. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a fun night out in Kyoto.

The Kyoto Marathon also took place today. The marathon passed by seven UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites. I was amazed to see so many people running. It was truly inspiring.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the day, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences I've had. Kyoto has a way of captivating you, of drawing you in with its beauty, its history, and its vibrant culture. Tomorrow, we're off to explore Gion, Yasaka Shrine, and Hanamikoji Street. I can't wait to see what adventures await!

“To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.” I'm looking forward to discovering more about Kyoto and Japan.

Tonight, as I drift off to sleep, I'll dream of temples, tea houses, and techno beats – a perfect Kyoto cocktail.

Until tomorrow,
Kevin