Exploring the Cultural Riches of Kyoto with Friends

Whispers in the Bamboo

Kyoto, the heart of Japan's cultural heritage, had always been a dream destination for me. Today, that dream came true as Hans and I, along with our friends, embarked on our Kyoto adventure, starting in the enchanting district of Arashiyama. It's a place where ancient temples meet lush bamboo groves, offering a serene escape from the bustling city life. I was eager to immerse myself in its beauty and share the experience with all of you.

Our day began with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Kizahashi, nestled within THE THOUSAND KYOTO hotel. The hotel itself exudes a minimalist style, reminiscent of a traditional tea house, which set the perfect tone for our cultural immersion. The breakfast was a delightful experience. I opted for the Japanese breakfast, which featured refined flavors such as premium dashi broth and yuba from Miyama Town in Kyoto. There were also four small dishes like Kizahashi's homemade ume chirimen, Saikyo-yaki fish, and dashimaki tamago (rolled omelet). Sipping on green tea while gazing out at the meticulously manicured garden felt like a serene start to our Kyoto exploration.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we took a train to Arashiyama. Arriving in Arashiyama felt like stepping into a different world. The crisp February air, though a bit chilly, was invigorating. I had forgotten my umbrella, a small oversight, but thankfully I had my light jacket to keep me warm. The weather was clear, promising a beautiful day of exploration. As we walked towards the famed Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, the scenery was breathtaking. The surrounding mountains provided a stunning backdrop to the quaint streets lined with shops and cafes. I couldn't resist stopping at a local shop, Souvenir Kyoto, to pick up a few trinkets to remind me of this magical place. The shop was filled with colorful and carefully detailed crafts, and I found a beautiful hand-painted fan that I knew my mother would adore.

Finally, we arrived at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Stepping into the grove was like entering a cathedral of nature. Towering bamboo stalks reached for the sky, their green culms swaying gently in the breeze. The sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, casting dappled shadows on the path below. It was a truly awe-inspiring sight. We strolled along the winding path, listening to the whispers of the bamboo as the wind rustled through the grove. The experience was both calming and invigorating, a perfect blend of nature's tranquility and raw beauty. It was quite busy, but we found a spot to ourselves to soak it all in.


Discover the serene beauty of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, a tranquil escape filled with towering bamboo groves and enchanting pathways.

After the Bamboo Grove, we made our way to Tenryu-ji Temple, a Zen temple with a rich history and stunning gardens. The temple is closely connected to the Bamboo Grove, making it an easy and natural extension of our visit. Tenryu-ji is one of the Kyoto Gozan (the five most important Zen temples in Kyoto) and is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The main hall, Hatto Hall, features a captivating dragon painting on the ceiling. As we wandered through the temple grounds, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. The meticulously raked gravel gardens, the serene ponds, and the ancient trees all contributed to the temple's tranquil atmosphere. We took our time exploring each corner, admiring the intricate details of the architecture and the natural beauty of the landscape.


Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. A cultural gem for every traveler.

For lunch, we decided to try Arash's Kitchen, a Persian and Indian Halal restaurant. It was an unexpected but delightful choice. The aroma of spices filled the air as we entered, and the menu offered a wide array of flavorful dishes. I opted for the Kabab Kubideh, a Persian classic, while Hans chose the Biryani Set. The food was delicious and satisfying, providing a welcome break after our morning of exploration. It was great to find a Halal option in the area, catering to diverse dietary needs.


Experience authentic Asian cuisine at Arash's Kitchen in Kyoto—a culinary delight for every traveler seeking unique flavors.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO for dinner. This restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored traditional Japanese building, once the residence of a renowned painter. The ambiance was elegant and refined, with a touch of history and artistry. We opted for the Italian set menu, which featured seasonal ingredients from Kyoto. Each dish was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. The service was impeccable, and the overall experience was truly memorable. I was particularly impressed with their vegan set menu option.


Discover the perfect blend of Italian culinary artistry and traditional Japanese ambiance at The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto.

Before heading back to our hotel, we took a leisurely stroll through the Gion district, known for its preserved wooden machiya houses and traditional teahouses. Although we didn't spot any geishas, the atmosphere was captivating, and I could imagine what it must have been like in its heyday. The narrow streets were lit by lanterns, casting a warm glow on the historic buildings. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Kyoto.


Discover Gion Misen Furumonzen, a charming hotel in Kyoto offering comfort and convenience near Yasaka Shrine and Maruyama Park for all travelers.

Reflecting on our day, I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of Arashiyama. The bamboo grove, the serene temples, the delicious food, and the charming streets all contributed to an unforgettable day. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of torii gates, the Tōfuku-ji Temple, and explore the Gion district further. I'm also looking forward to potentially unwinding at L'Escamoteur, a bar in Gion.

As I sit here in my cozy hotel room, I can't help but feel a sense of excitement for what tomorrow holds. Kyoto has already captured my heart, and I know that the next few days will be filled with even more incredible experiences. I'm so glad I could share this day with Hans and our friends; traveling together always makes the experience more special. Stay tuned for more updates from our Kyoto adventure!

I almost forgot to mention! While walking back to the hotel, I realized I had forgotten to pack my Japanese phrasebook. I made a mental note to pick one up tomorrow; it would definitely come in handy as we venture further into the city. It's the little things like these that make traveling so much more immersive and rewarding.

Arrivederci from Kyoto!