Cultural Adventures in Kyoto with Hans

Kyoto's Timeless Charms

Today was a deep dive into the heart of Kyoto, a day filled with the kind of experiences that make you feel utterly connected to the soul of this ancient city. It was a day of contrasts – from the solemn grandeur of temples to the delicate beauty of meticulously designed gardens, and finally, the vibrant artistry of Gion. Hans and I soaked in every moment, letting Kyoto’s timeless charms wash over us.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Arash's Kitchen. I'd read rave reviews online, and it was just a short bus ride from our hotel. The aromas of Persian spices filled the air as we stepped inside. Arash himself greeted us with a warm smile, and we settled into a cozy corner. I opted for a traditional Persian breakfast, while Hans, ever the adventurous one, tried a spicy Indian dish. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration.


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

Chionin Temple: A Journey Through History

From Arash's Kitchen, we headed to Chionin Temple. Nestled in the Higashiyama district, Chionin is the head temple of the Jodo sect of Buddhism. As we approached, the sheer scale of the Sanmon Gate took my breath away. It's the largest wooden gate in Japan, and standing beneath it, I felt dwarfed by its magnificence. Apparently, the temple was holding a special viewing of Hōjō, but sadly we missed it as it ended on May 11. Still, there was plenty to see.


Explore the serene beauty of Chionin Temple, a historic Buddhist site in Kyoto, offering spiritual insight and breathtaking architecture.

Inside, the vast complex unfolded before us, a tapestry of halls, gardens, and smaller temples. We climbed the seemingly endless stone steps, each one a testament to the centuries of history held within these walls. The main hall, the Mieido, was particularly impressive, its intricate details and serene atmosphere inviting quiet contemplation. I lit a stick of incense and offered a silent prayer for my patients back in Heidelberg, hoping for their comfort and well-being.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its famous landmarks, but in the quiet moments of connection we find within them.

One of the highlights was definitely the giant bell. I learned that it takes seventeen monks to ring it! I could only imagine the sound reverberating through the hills of Kyoto. We wandered through the temple grounds, admiring the carefully manicured gardens and the peaceful atmosphere. It was a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Shōsei-en Garden: A Tranquil Oasis

Next on our itinerary was Shōsei-en Garden, a short taxi ride from Chionin. This garden, also known as Kikoku-tei, is a detached garden belonging to the Higashi Honganji Temple. As we stepped through the entrance, we were immediately enveloped in a sense of tranquility. The garden was designed by Jozan Ishikawa and artist Kobori Enshu as a retreat for chief priest Sen'nyo, and you could feel the serenity emanating from every corner.


Experience the serene beauty of Shōsei-en Garden in Kyoto, a tranquil oasis showcasing traditional Japanese landscape design and seasonal flora.

The central pond, Ingetsu-chi, was the heart of the garden, its still waters reflecting the surrounding trees and buildings. Colorful koi carp swam lazily beneath the surface, and various species of ducks paddled peacefully along the edges. We strolled along the meticulously maintained walking paths, crossing bridges and admiring the carefully placed stones and lanterns.

I was particularly drawn to the tea houses, each offering a unique perspective of the landscape. The plum blossoms were long gone, but the purple wisteria was blooming in May, adding splashes of vibrant color to the lush greenery. The garden was a haven of peace, a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the simple beauty of nature.

Lunch at THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO: A Culinary Delight

By now, our stomachs were starting to rumble, so we made our way to THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO for lunch. This restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored traditional building, once the residence of a renowned Japanese painter. The setting alone was worth the visit, but the food was equally impressive. The restaurant is known for its Italian cuisine, and we decided to try the tasting menu. Each course was a work of art, a delicate balance of flavors and textures. We enjoyed the meal immensely, savoring every bite and appreciating the impeccable service.


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

Gion Corner: An Evening of Traditional Arts

As evening approached, we headed to Gion, Kyoto's geisha district. The narrow streets were alive with activity, the soft glow of lanterns casting long shadows on the traditional wooden buildings. It felt like stepping back in time. Our destination was Gion Corner, a theater dedicated to showcasing traditional Japanese performing arts.


Discover the enchanting world of traditional Japanese arts at Gion Corner in Kyoto, a cultural hub showcasing geisha performances and more.

We arrived just in time for the evening performance. The show was a whirlwind tour of Japanese culture, featuring a tea ceremony, ikebana flower arrangement, koto music, bugaku dance, kyogen comedy, and kyomai dance performed by maiko. I was particularly captivated by the kyomai dance. The maiko were graceful and elegant, their movements telling stories of love, loss, and longing. The intricate costumes and traditional music added to the magic of the performance.

The Gion district is known for the Kyo Odori show, but sadly it was postponed to 2026 due to theatre construction. Still, there was plenty to see at the Gion Corner.

Kyoto Star Bar: A Nightcap in Style

After the show, we decided to end our evening with a nightcap at the Kyoto Star Bar. Tucked away in a narrow alley, this bar is known for its expertly crafted cocktails and its kimono-clad bartender. The atmosphere was intimate and sophisticated, the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Hans ordered a classic whiskey sour, while I opted for a Ki No Bi Negroni, a local specialty. The drinks were delicious, and the bartender was friendly and engaging, sharing stories about the history of the bar and the art of cocktail making.


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

As we sipped our drinks, we reflected on the day's adventures. We had explored ancient temples, wandered through serene gardens, savored exquisite cuisine, and witnessed the beauty of traditional Japanese performing arts. It was a day that had touched our hearts and deepened our appreciation for the rich culture of Kyoto.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Kyoto Railway Museum, Kyoto Tower, and Tō-ji Temple. I am particularly excited about the Railway Museum, as I know Hans will be in his element surrounded by trains. We'll also be sure to try Komefuku for breakfast, followed by lunch at Masayoshi Japanese Dining and dinner at Premium Pound Gion. And of course, we'll squeeze in some time for shopping at Takashimaya Kyoto S.C.

I feel so grateful for these experiences and for the opportunity to share them with you all. Until tomorrow, sayōnara!