Cultural Exploration in Kyoto with Friends

Gion's Timeless Allure

Today was like stepping into a living postcard, an experience that transcended mere sightseeing. I found myself wandering through the historic Gion district in Kyoto, a place where time seems to slow down, and the essence of old Japan lingers in the air. It was a day filled with cultural immersion, delightful culinary experiences, and moments of pure, unadulterated awe.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Kakyo. The restaurant was new and I had a great time there. From what I recall, the restaurant is not spacious, but there is a counter and tables, so I could enjoy the food slowly. The set course menu was excellent, starting with a beautiful floral arrangement on the plate. Each dish was carefully prepared and the sake selection was also impressive. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration.

Gion is not just a place; it's an experience, a journey back in time where the spirit of old Kyoto comes alive with every step you take.

After breakfast, I strolled towards Gion, Kyoto's famed geisha district. The air was crisp, a typical February morning, but the excitement of the day ahead kept me warm. As I walked, I couldn't help but reflect on my journey from the sunny shores of Salinas, Puerto Rico, to the ancient streets of Kyoto. It's a world away from my current home in Berlin, but the universal allure of history and culture binds us all, no matter where we come from. I'm glad my friends are here to share this experience with me.

My first stop was Yasaka Shrine, a vibrant vermilion structure that stands as a guardian of Gion. The shrine was bustling with activity, locals and tourists alike offering prayers and seeking blessings. The atmosphere was electric, a palpable sense of energy and reverence filling the air. I took a moment to admire the intricate details of the shrine's architecture, the ornate carvings, and the vibrant colors that seemed to pop against the clear blue sky. According to what I read, Yasaka Shrine is especially lively during festivals, and I felt fortunate to be visiting a place so rich in tradition and history. I learned that Yasaka Shrine is considered the “patron shrine” of Gion. I made sure to take a moment to appreciate the beautiful vermilion torii gate and lively atmosphere.


Discover the serene beauty of Yasaka Shrine, a historical Shinto sanctuary in Kyoto, renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural festivals.

Leaving Yasaka Shrine, I ventured into the heart of Gion, towards Hanamikoji Street. This narrow, stone-paved street is the epitome of old Kyoto, lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, exclusive tea houses, and the occasional glimpse of a geiko or maiko hurrying to an appointment. Walking along Hanamikoji Street felt like stepping back in time, the air thick with history and mystique. The light was fading, casting long shadows that danced along the ancient walls. I could almost hear the echoes of laughter and music from centuries past, the whispers of geishas entertaining their guests, and the clatter of wooden sandals on the cobblestones. One of my friends pointed out the matching red lanterns, each with a pattern of eight dango dumplings, which is derived from the Gion Koubu Hanamikoji area.


Explore Hanamikoji Street, Kyoto's iconic alleyway steeped in tradition and culture, where history meets the beauty of Japanese artistry.

I had lunch at Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store. I actually followed a group of people through the tiny walkway that lead to this restaurant. We arrived just in time to get seated after a 5 minute wait and I must say is. It was some of the best tonkatsu! The restaurant was bustling with tourists, and although the wait time was long, the quality of Katsu was great. The entrance to the restaurant is so subtle that you might pass it by if you're not paying attention. It is a good model of tonkatsu, can choose the part of the pig, can add rice and cabbage. We were able to enjoy the delicious meal.


Savor the best tonkatsu in Kyoto at Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store—where tradition meets flavor.

As the day drew to a close, it was time for dinner. We chose Hanasaki, a restaurant known for its authentic Kyoto cuisine. The restaurant itself was a traditional Kyoto machiya, with a tranquil atmosphere that immediately put me at ease. The meal was a multi-course kaiseki experience, each dish a work of art in itself. The flavors were subtle and refined, highlighting the freshness of the seasonal ingredients. I particularly enjoyed the charcoal-grilled fish, cooked right at our table by the skilled chef. It was a culinary journey that tantalized my taste buds and left me feeling deeply satisfied. Gion Kyo-Ryori Hanasaki offers Kyoto kaiseki course meals that highlight the freshness of the ingredients. They prepare dishes centered around seasonal ingredients, and especially with their charcoal-grilled dishes, the skilled chef grills seasonal fish and Kyoto vegetables right at the guest's table to maximize their deliciousness. I also enjoyed a selection of premium Japanese sake and rare shochu.


Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Hanasaki in Kyoto - where tradition meets artistry in every delicious dish.

To cap off the evening, my friends and I decided to visit Kyoto Star Bar. We enjoyed the rock solid whisky and gin-based cocktails. The Ki No Bi Negroni is highly recommended. The atmosphere was classy and the staff was great. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.


Discover the perfect blend of cocktails and coffee at Kyoto Star Bar, a stylish retreat in the heart of Kyoto's vibrant nightlife.

Walking back to Matsui Bekkan Hanakanzashi, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences I had today. Gion had cast its spell on me, its timeless allure weaving its way into my soul. It was a day that I will cherish forever, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that exists in the world, waiting to be discovered. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventure, where we'll be exploring the Philosopher's Path, Nanzen-ji Temple, and Heian Shrine. I can't wait to see what other treasures Kyoto has in store for us.


Experience the charm of Kyoto at Matsui Bekkan Hanakanzashi, a guest house offering comfort, relaxation, and local culture just steps from key attractions.

I’m so glad I decided to come to Kyoto with my friends. As a freelancer, it's not always easy to take time off, but experiences like this remind me why I work so hard. Sharing these moments with friends makes it even more special. As I write this, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow. We plan to explore the Philosopher's Path, visit Nanzen-ji Temple, and maybe even do a little shopping at Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure in this magical city.