Exploring the Cultural Riches of Kyoto with Friends

Kyoto's Timeless Charm

Today was a day of exploring the heart of Kyoto, a city where ancient traditions meet modern life. From the serene beauty of temples to the bustling energy of historic streets, every moment was a sensory delight. I'm so excited to share the experiences of our eighth day in this magical city.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi. It’s a cozy spot, and it was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of walking and exploration. The restaurant had a luxurious feel, and set us up perfectly for the day.


Experience Kyoto's vibrant food scene with authentic yakiniku at Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi, where every bite tells a delicious story.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, Hans and I made our way to Kiyomizu-dera. As we approached, the temple's grandeur became more and more apparent. The temple was founded in 778, long before Kyoto became the capital, by a monk named Enchin who, guided by a divine revelation, found the pure waters of the Otowa Waterfall. It’s a place steeped in history and spirituality, and you can feel it in the air.


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

The main hall, a National Treasure, stands proudly with its iconic wooden stage. It’s constructed with 168 pillars, offering a panoramic view of Kyoto that simply takes your breath away. Even with the renovations underway, the temple’s beauty shone through. I learned that the expression “to jump off the stage at Kiyomizu” is similar to our saying “take the plunge,” which I found quite amusing.

The beauty of Kiyomizu-dera isn't just in its structures, but in the sense of peace and history it evokes.

We took our time exploring the grounds, admiring the three-story Koyasu Pagoda, which is believed to grant trouble-free childbirth. I made a mental note to tell my friend Maria about it, as she and her husband are planning to start a family soon. The Otowa Waterfall was another highlight. People were lined up to drink from the three streams, each associated with health, longevity, and success. I chose the stream for health, hoping to ward off any travel bugs!

Leaving Kiyomizu-dera, we strolled down Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, the charming, sloping streets leading away from the temple. These historic lanes are lined with traditional wooden storefronts, teahouses, and shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. It felt like stepping back in time, imagining Kyoto as it was centuries ago.


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


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

I couldn't resist popping into a few shops, picking up some beautiful handmade paper for my gardening journal and a set of delicate chopsticks as a gift for Hans’s parents. We also stopped at a teahouse for a matcha tea, served with a sweet rice cake called mochi. It was a perfect moment of tranquility amidst the bustling streets.

One of the local legends says that if you fall on Sannenzaka, you’ll die in three years, and if you fall on Ninenzaka, you’ll die in two! Luckily, we managed to navigate the slopes without any mishaps. I learned that Sannenzaka got its name from Hideyoshi Toyotomi's wife, who walked the slopes to Kiyomizu Temple to pray for a child. It’s fascinating how these streets are steeped in both myth and history.

For lunch, we had a reservation at Yoshikawa, a renowned tempura restaurant. The setting was exquisite, with a beautiful old wooden building surrounding a serene Japanese garden. We sat at the counter, watching the chefs meticulously prepare each piece of tempura. The tempura was light, non-greasy, and utterly delicious. It was served with a variety of dipping sauces and freshly grated daikon radish. Each bite was a revelation, from the delicate shrimp to the perfectly crisp vegetables. The care and precision that went into each dish were truly impressive.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Yoshikawa, where tradition meets exceptional flavors in the heart of Kyoto.

As evening approached, we decided to experience Kyoto from a different perspective. We headed to the Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto for dinner at French Dining Top of Kyoto, a revolving restaurant on the 14th floor. The panoramic views were simply breathtaking. As the restaurant slowly rotated, we were treated to a 360-degree vista of the city, from the historic skyline to the surrounding mountains. The interior was equally stunning, with handmade karakami paper adorning the walls.


Discover the exquisite flavors of French cuisine at French Dining Top of Kyoto – where culinary artistry meets stunning views.

The French cuisine was exceptional, each course beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The service was impeccable, with attentive staff who made us feel truly special. It was the perfect setting for a romantic dinner, and Hans and I savored every moment.

To cap off the evening, we ventured to The Common One Bar Kyoto, a hidden gem in the Gion district. This modern bar is known for its traditional atmosphere, featuring tatami rooms and a tea room. The entrance was a bit tricky to find, adding to its allure as a hidden hideaway. The bartenders were true artists, crafting creative cocktails with precision and care. I opted for a brandy-based cocktail, which was both refreshing and flavorful. The ambiance was serene and sophisticated, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at The Common One Bar, where tradition meets innovation in every cocktail.

As I reflect on today, I’m struck by the seamless blend of tradition and modernity that defines Kyoto. From the ancient temples to the innovative cuisine, every experience was a testament to the city’s unique charm. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Kyoto International Manga Museum, Shoren-in Temple, and Maruyama Park. I’m particularly excited about the Manga Museum, as I’ve always been a fan of Japanese comics and animation. We’ll also be doing some shopping at the Daimaru Kyoto Store. I can’t wait to see what new adventures tomorrow will bring!

I’m so grateful to be sharing this journey with Hans and our friends. Traveling together has enriched the experience, creating memories that we’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Until tomorrow,
Lucia