Exploring the Cultural Riches of Kyoto with Friends

A Day of Exploration in Kyoto

Today was a delightful mix of history, entertainment, and breathtaking views here in Kyoto. I’m always excited to share these experiences, especially when I’m with my friends. We really made the most of our time, diving into the city's diverse offerings. From vintage trains to film sets and panoramic cityscapes, Kyoto continues to surprise and enchant me.

Our day started with a hearty vegan breakfast at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO. This cozy spot is tucked away on a quiet backstreet and is known for its heavenly vegan pancakes. Since going vegan, I've been on the lookout for great vegan restaurants, and this place did not disappoint! I opted for their famous fluffy pancakes, topped with soy ice cream and whipped cream. Hans went for the taco rice, which I found amusing, but he seemed to enjoy it! It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. I made sure to note that they have savory options too, including burgers and curries, for future visits. It’s so wonderful to find places that cater to my dietary choices without sacrificing flavor or experience.


Discover exquisite vegan delights at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO – where culinary creativity meets sustainable living.

With our stomachs full and our spirits high, we headed to the Kyoto Railway Museum. As someone who appreciates history and innovation, I was eager to see Japan's railway history come to life. I have always been fascinated by trains – I remember my grandfather building a miniature train set when I was a child, and I think that’s where my love for locomotives began. I wasn’t disappointed. The museum is home to an impressive collection of railway vehicles, from steam locomotives to Shinkansen bullet trains. We explored the different exhibits, learning about the technical innovations and the impact of railways on Japan's modernization. It was fascinating to see the various models and learn about the evolution of train travel in Japan. I even tried my hand at the train simulator, which was a lot of fun, even though I almost crashed the virtual train!


Discover the rich history of railways at the Kyoto Railway Museum, a family-friendly attraction in the heart of Kyoto showcasing trains and interactive exhibits.

Sometimes, the most enriching experiences are found in the unexpected corners of a city.

After immersing ourselves in railway history, we decided to switch gears and visit the Toei Kyoto Studio Park. This is the only theme park in Japan where you can observe the filming of period dramas, called jidaigeki films. Walking through the Edo-period film set felt like stepping back in time. We watched a ninja show, which was action-packed and entertaining, with impressive stunts and acrobatics. I even considered dressing up as a geisha or samurai, but decided against it – maybe next time! According to the research I had done, the park sometimes holds special events, so it might be worth checking their schedule before planning a visit. It’s amazing to see how much detail and effort goes into creating these historical sets and costumes. The park also offers a glimpse into the world of special effects and animation, which was fascinating to see. I’ve always been curious about the behind-the-scenes aspects of filmmaking, and this park provided a unique opportunity to learn more.


Discover the enchantment of Japanese cinema at Toei Kyoto Studio Park, where film sets and interactive experiences come together for endless fun.

Our final stop for the day was the Kyoto Tower. Standing tall in front of Kyoto Station, this iconic landmark offers panoramic views of the city. We took the elevator to the observation deck, which is the highest point in Kyoto, and gazed out at the sprawling cityscape below. From up there, we could see famous sights like Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Toji Temple. The tower itself is designed in the shape of a candle, which is a unique and memorable feature. I read that sometimes the tower is lit up in different colors for special events, but tonight it was its usual white. It was the perfect way to end our day, taking in the beauty of Kyoto from above. Hans pointed out different areas we had visited and reminisced about our favorite moments from the day. It’s moments like these that make traveling with friends so special. We shared laughs, learned new things, and created lasting memories.


Discover breathtaking views and unique souvenirs at Nidec Kyoto Tower, the iconic landmark that embodies Kyoto's rich cultural heritage.

For lunch, we enjoyed a refined Kaiseki experience at Jiki Miyazawa. The restaurant’s elegant traditional Japanese interior and the meticulous preparation of the dishes were impressive. Each dish was a testament to the motto of ingredients first. The firm tofu, made with high-quality Kudzu and grilled to perfection, was a standout. The sesame sauce made with ground sesame, honey, and salt was simply divine. It was a lunch that satisfied both the eyes and the palate.


Indulge in an authentic Kaiseki dining experience at Jiki Miyazawa, where seasonal flavors meet exquisite presentation in the heart of Kyoto.

As evening approached, we treated ourselves to a sophisticated dinner at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION. The restaurant is known for serving A5-grade wagyu Kobe beef, and the quality was evident in every bite. We opted for the tasting menu, which included Kobe sirloin and Kobe filet. The chef cooked the beef to perfection on a teppan hot plate right in front of us. The meal also included soup, salad, vegetables, rice, and dessert. It was an indulgent experience that showcased the best of Japanese cuisine. It was indeed a memorable meal and one I would recommend to anyone looking for the best Kobe beef experience.


Experience unparalleled flavors at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION in Kyoto - a must-visit for steak lovers seeking authenticity.

To cap off the evening, we visited BEE’S KNEES, a speakeasy-style bar in the Kiyamachi nightlife district. The bar has a vintage vibe, with dim lighting and classic jazz music. The bartenders are skilled at creating unique and delicious cocktails using locally sourced ingredients. I tried the Wa Smash, a light and zesty concoction featuring Kyoto's Ki no Bi gin, lemon, mirin syrup, and sparkling sake with fresh shiso leaves. Hans went for the Not Godfather, based on Templeton rye whisky infused with apple and cinnamon, and served with a miniature Capone-style hat. It was a fun and memorable way to end our day in Kyoto. It was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.


Discover BEE’S KNEES in Kyoto - A vibrant bar offering unique cocktails that blend local flavors with a lively nightlife experience.

I’m finding that Kyoto in February has a unique charm, with fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere. The plum blossoms are starting to bloom, adding a touch of color to the winter landscape. I’m excited for tomorrow, where we plan to visit the Heian Shrine, Eikan-dō Temple, and the Kyoto Botanical Gardens. I've heard that the Heian Shrine is particularly beautiful, and I'm eager to see it for myself. I'm also looking forward to exploring the Kyoto Botanical Gardens, which should be a welcome dose of nature. And, of course, I’m excited about trying new restaurants and shops along the way. I need to remember to buy a Japanese phrasebook, as I forgot to pack it! I’m making a mental note to add an umbrella to my packing list for future trips, as the weather can be unpredictable. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

I’m so grateful for these experiences and for the chance to share them with you all. Stay tuned for more updates from Kyoto!