Exploring the Cultural Riches of Kyoto with Friends

A Day of Cultural Immersion in Kyoto

Today was a day of diving headfirst into Kyoto's multifaceted charm. From the vibrant world of manga to the serene beauty of ancient temples and parks, Kyoto continued to surprise and enchant me. I’m excited to share all about it with you!

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Goichi Pizza. It might seem a bit unconventional to start a day in Japan with pizza, but Hans and I were craving something familiar. It was a delightful surprise to find that Goichi Pizza served authentic, stone-oven baked pizzas with a wonderfully chewy crust. It was a perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made it a memorable start to our Sunday.

With our bellies full, we set off to the Kyoto International Manga Museum. I have always been fascinated by the art of storytelling through comics, and I was eager to explore this unique museum. The museum is housed in a former school building, which added to its charm. As we walked through the doors, we were immediately greeted by walls lined with thousands of manga books. It was a visual feast for the eyes!


Explore the rich world of manga at the Kyoto International Manga Museum, a cultural haven for enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

The museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of manga, with exhibits showcasing original artwork and manuscripts from renowned artists. I was particularly impressed by the collection of hand-scripted manga, which provided a fascinating glimpse into the creative process. I even saw some translated manga, including a few in Spanish, which brought back fond memories of my childhood in Alcalá de Guadaira.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

One of the highlights of the museum was the opportunity to simply sit down and read manga. There were designated reading areas throughout the museum, where visitors could grab a book off the shelf and immerse themselves in a story. I spent a good hour flipping through different manga, marveling at the diverse styles and narratives. Hans even got his portrait drawn as an anime character!

After our manga adventure, we sought a change of pace with a visit to Shoren-in Temple. This serene temple, nestled at the foot of the Higashiyama mountains, offered a welcome escape from the bustling city. As we approached the temple, the air grew noticeably quieter, and a sense of tranquility washed over us. The temple is known as one of the Monzeki temples, which historically had priests from the imperial family. The history of the temple is linked to Emperor Toba, who had his son study under Enryakuji's head priest and built Shoren-in as a city residence for the two. The temple has served as a residence during the 18th century when a fire forced an empress to use the temple as her temporary living quarters.


Experience the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Shōrenin Temple, a must-visit Buddhist temple in Kyoto's enchanting Higashiyama Ward.

The gardens at Shoren-in were simply breathtaking. The meticulously manicured landscapes, complete with serene ponds and moss-covered stones, created a sense of harmony and peace. We wandered through the gardens, taking in the beauty of nature and enjoying the quiet solitude. The fusuma, or sliding doors, renovated by contemporary artist Kimura Hideki, were also a highlight, blending traditional art with modern aesthetics.

As the afternoon sun began to dip, we made our way to Maruyama Park. This public park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and it's easy to see why. Even in February, before the cherry blossoms bloom, the park had a special charm. I can only imagine how beautiful it must be in spring, with the cherry blossoms in full bloom!


Experience the natural beauty of Maruyama Park in Kyoto, a serene oasis filled with cherry blossoms and cultural heritage.

We strolled through the park, enjoying the crisp winter air and the peaceful atmosphere. There were a few food stalls setting up, giving us a hint of the festivals and events that take place here during the warmer months. I read that Maruyama Park hosts a variety of festivals and events during the cherry blossom season, bringing the community together to revel in the beauty of nature. I made a mental note to visit again in the spring to experience the park in its full glory.

For lunch, we decided to try something different and ventured into Mezopotamia Kebab House. I know, kebabs in Japan? But the reviews were too good to ignore. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The kebab was flavorful and fresh, and the staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming. It was a delightful culinary detour that added a unique flavor to our day. I enjoyed chatting with the staff, who spoke several languages. It reminded me of the diverse community we have in Berlin.


Experience authentic Middle Eastern cuisine at Mezopotamia Kebab House in Kyoto - where every bite tells a story.

After a full day of exploring, we decided to treat ourselves to a special dinner at Masayoshi Japanese Dining. This restaurant promised an authentic Japanese dining experience, and it certainly delivered. The ambiance was elegant and refined, and the service was impeccable. We savored a multi-course meal of traditional Japanese dishes, each one a work of art in both presentation and flavor. It was a perfect way to end our day of cultural immersion.


Experience authentic Japanese steakhouse dining at Masayoshi in Kyoto—where tradition meets culinary excellence.

Before heading back to our hotel, we did some shopping at Daimaru Kyoto Store. I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs for our friends and family back home. Daimaru is a large department store with a wide variety of shops, including cosmetics, clothing, and gourmet food. I found some beautiful Japanese cosmetics and some delicious local snacks to take back to Berlin. I even found a small kimono for my niece, which I know she will adore.


Explore the heart of Kyoto shopping at Daimaru Kyoto Store, where tradition meets modernity in a vibrant department store experience.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am struck by the incredible diversity of experiences that Kyoto has to offer. From the vibrant world of manga to the serene beauty of ancient temples and parks, this city has something for everyone. I am so grateful to be able to share these experiences with Hans and my readers. Each day here brings new discoveries and lasting memories.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Kodaiji Temple, Gion Corner, and Kenninji Temple. I am particularly excited to explore the Gion district, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geishas. I am also looking forward to trying some authentic Kyoto cuisine. I have heard that Gion Nanba is an excellent place to experience Kyoto's culinary delights, so I hope to have dinner there.

Good night from Kyoto!

P.S. I almost forgot! I bought a beautiful silk scarf at Daimaru Kyoto Store. It's a traditional Japanese design with delicate floral patterns. I can't wait to wear it back in Berlin. It will be a lovely reminder of my time in Kyoto.