Cultural Adventures in Kyoto with Hans

Whispers of Ancient Kyoto

Today, Hans and I embarked on a journey through time, wandering the ancient streets and temples of Kyoto. The air was filled with a sense of history, a gentle reminder of the countless stories etched into every stone and wooden façade. It was a day of serene beauty, punctuated by delightful culinary experiences and the simple joy of exploring a world so different from our own.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Ajikyu. It's a cozy spot, tucked away and offering a taste of authentic Japanese home cooking. The aroma of simmering broths and grilled delicacies filled the air, enticing us from the moment we stepped inside. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and perfectly cooked rice. Hans, ever the adventurous one, tried a local specialty I couldn't quite pronounce, but he assured me it was delicious. Fuelled up, we were ready to tackle the day's adventures.


Discover authentic Japanese dining at Ajikyu in Kyoto—where tradition meets exquisite culinary artistry.

Our first stop was Kiyomizu-dera, a temple that has stood for over 1200 years. Founded in 778, it has been rebuilt several times, most recently in 1633. The approach to the temple was a gradual climb, lined with charming shops selling everything from traditional sweets to handcrafted souvenirs. The temple itself is a marvel, especially the wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, offering panoramic views of Kyoto. The vibrant green of the surrounding trees created a stunning contrast with the temple's red and gold accents. We watched as visitors tossed coins into the Jishu Shrine, hoping for luck in love, and marvelled at the three-story pagoda, one of the tallest of its kind in Japan. The Otowa Waterfall was particularly serene. It's divided into three separate streams, and drinking from each is said to bring different blessings: long life, success, and a good love life. Of course, we both took a sip, hoping for a little bit of everything.


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

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of moments, like a quiet walk through an ancient temple or a shared meal with someone you love.

Leaving Kiyomizu-dera, we strolled down Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, two beautifully preserved historic streets. The gentle, narrow sloping roads were lined with traditional wooden storefronts, tea houses, and restaurants, each exuding its unique charm. It felt like stepping back in time, imagining what life must have been like centuries ago. I couldn't resist popping into a few shops, picking up some delicate incense and a beautifully painted fan. Hans, meanwhile, was captivated by a craftsman demonstrating the art of calligraphy. We learned that Sannenzaka means slope of three years, and Ninenzaka means slope of two years. There's a myth that if you fall on these streets, you'll be dead in 2 or 3 years! Luckily, we both managed to stay upright, despite the crowds and the slightly uneven stone pavement. The area is an Important Preservation District, so the buildings are kept in good condition.


Discover Sannenzaka, a historic street in Kyoto, where traditional charm meets stunning views and delightful local cuisine.


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

For lunch, we found ourselves at Yasakadori Enraku, a restaurant known for its Oden. The restaurant has a tranquil atmosphere, and we enjoyed a leisurely lunch in a private room. Oden is a traditional Japanese hotpot dish, and the version here was particularly delicious. The broth was light but deeply flavorful, infused with a variety of ingredients from tofu and boiled egg to more unique options like chicken wings and deep-fried shrimp. It was the perfect meal to warm us up after our morning of exploring.


Experience the artistry of Kaiseki dining at Yasakadori Enraku in Kyoto – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

As the afternoon waned, we decided to indulge in a bit of relaxation at our hotel before dinner. Back at Hotel Rings Kyoto, I took the opportunity to jot down some notes and organize the photos I'd snapped throughout the day. Hans, predictably, was engrossed in a book about Japanese history. It's one of the things I love most about him – his insatiable curiosity and his eagerness to learn about the world around him.


Discover comfort and convenience at Hotel Rings Kyoto, your ideal base for exploring the enchanting city of Kyoto with free Wi-Fi and on-site dining!

Dinner was at Kikunoi Roan, a Michelin-starred restaurant that promised an exquisite culinary experience. And it certainly delivered. From the moment we stepped inside, we were enveloped in an atmosphere of refined elegance. The restaurant is run by Yoshiharu Murata, the younger brother of Kikunoi chef Yoshihiro Murata. The dishes were a work of art, each meticulously crafted to showcase the seasonal flavors of Kyoto. We opted for the Kaiseki menu, a multi-course meal that took us on a journey through the region's culinary landscape. The presentation was impeccable, the flavors were delicate and nuanced, and the service was attentive without being intrusive. It was an experience that engaged all our senses, a true celebration of Japanese cuisine.


Experience the art of kaiseki dining at Kikunoi Roan in Kyoto - where seasonal flavors meet exquisite presentation.

After dinner, we decided to cap off the evening with a visit to L'Escamoteur, a bar known for its magical cocktails. Finding it was an adventure in itself, tucked away on Kiyamachi-dori. As we stepped inside, we were transported to another world. The bar was dimly lit, filled with curiosities and vintage décor, creating an atmosphere that was both mysterious and inviting. Christophe Rossi, the owner, is a magician who incorporates magic, theatre, apothecary and chemistry into his bar. The bartenders, dressed in top hats, presented each drink with a flourish, like a conjurer pulling a rabbit out of a hat. I ordered a Kyoto Garden, a cocktail made with Kyoto gin, matcha, and yuzu, while Hans opted for one of the bar's classic concoctions. As we sipped our drinks, surrounded by the murmur of conversation and the clinking of glasses, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover L'Escamoteur, Kyoto's enchanting cocktail bar where artistry meets mixology in a whimsical atmosphere. Unforgettable drinks await!

As we walked back to our hotel, the streets of Kyoto were quiet and still. The lanterns glowed softly, casting a warm light on the ancient buildings. I thought about everything we had seen and experienced today – the grandeur of Kiyomizu-dera, the charm of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, the exquisite flavors of Kikunoi Roan, and the magical atmosphere of L'Escamoteur. It was a day that had touched my soul, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that exists in the world. Tomorrow, we're off to Fushimi Inari Taisha, Tofuku-ji Temple and Gion. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us.

And now, as I sit here writing this, with the gentle hum of the city in the background, I feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with you. I hope that my words have transported you, even for a moment, to the enchanting world of Kyoto. Until tomorrow, dear readers, may your own journeys be filled with wonder and discovery.

P.S. I almost forgot to mention! I realized today that I forgot to pack an umbrella and a portable phone charger. Note to self: always double-check the essentials!