Cultural Adventures in Kyoto with Hans

Kyoto's Echoes of the Past and Glimpses of the Future

Today, Hans and I embarked on a day that blended the nostalgia of railway history with the allure of Kyoto's skyline and the serenity of ancient temples. It was a journey through time, where each stop offered a unique perspective on this captivating city. From the intricate workings of locomotives to panoramic vistas and spiritual reflections, Kyoto unveiled another layer of its charm.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Komefuku. Though a bit of a hidden gem, it was a delightful start to the day, fueling us up for our adventures. The tempura was perfectly crisp, and the sushi was incredibly fresh. It's always a pleasure to find a spot that locals love, and Komefuku certainly fit the bill. It was an excellent start to a day filled with exploration. I'm so glad we stumbled upon it and experienced such a tasty and authentic meal.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Komefuku in Kyoto, renowned for its fresh seafood and exquisite tempura dishes.

With our stomachs happy and our spirits high, we made our way to the Kyoto Railway Museum. As someone who appreciates history and engineering, I was excited to explore Japan's railway heritage. Hans, ever the software engineer, was particularly keen to see the technological advancements on display. The museum is vast, showcasing everything from steam locomotives to the iconic Shinkansen bullet trains. It was fascinating to walk through the different eras of railway travel and see how technology evolved over time. They even had driving simulators, which, I must admit, Hans enjoyed a bit more than I did. He almost didn't want to leave!


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.

The Kyoto Railway Museum is a testament to Japan's innovation and dedication to preserving its rich history, offering a captivating experience for visitors of all ages.

One of the highlights was seeing the original Shinkansen up close. It's incredible to think about how revolutionary that train was when it first debuted. Being able to walk through the carriages and imagine the journeys people took was quite special. The museum also had a fantastic collection of steam locomotives, each with its own unique story. It was a wonderful experience that gave us a deeper appreciation for the impact of railways on Japanese society. The Kyoto Railway Museum truly offered an immersive journey through time, showcasing the evolution of train technology and its profound impact on Japanese culture. I found myself captivated by the intricate details of each exhibit, from the vintage steam locomotives to the sleek, modern Shinkansen trains. It was a fantastic experience that blended history, engineering, and a touch of nostalgia, creating lasting memories of our time there.

After immersing ourselves in the world of trains, we decided to ascend to Kyoto Tower. Rising above the city near Kyoto Station, this modern structure offers a stark contrast to the traditional temples and gardens we've been exploring. The views from the top were simply breathtaking. From 100 meters high, we could see the entire city spread out before us, with the surrounding mountains providing a stunning backdrop. It was a clear day, so we could even spot some landmarks in Osaka in the distance. The tower itself is more than just an observation point; it's a hub of activity, with shops, restaurants, and even a public bathhouse. We spent some time browsing the souvenir shops and soaking in the panoramic views. It was a great way to get a sense of the city's layout and appreciate its beauty from a different perspective.


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

From the modern heights of Kyoto Tower, we journeyed to the ancient grounds of Tō-ji Temple. Founded in 796, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to Kyoto's tallest wooden pagoda, a majestic structure that has become a symbol of the city. As we walked through the temple grounds, we were struck by the sense of peace and tranquility that permeated the air. The five-story pagoda, standing at 55 meters tall, is a sight to behold. It's the tallest wooden tower in Japan and has survived centuries of earthquakes and fires. The temple complex also includes the Kondo Hall, which houses a statue of the Yakushi Buddha, the Buddha of healing, and the Kodo Hall, which contains 19 statues brought from China by Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism.


Explore the breathtaking Tō-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto, featuring Japan's tallest wooden pagoda and serene gardens.

In the heart of Kyoto, Tō-ji Temple stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and the timeless beauty of Japanese architecture.

Exploring Tō-ji was a truly enriching experience. The temple's history is intertwined with the development of Kyoto itself, and it served as one of the capital's guardian temples. The intricate details of the buildings and the serene atmosphere made it a perfect place for reflection. We took our time to admire the architecture and learn about the temple's significance in Japanese Buddhism. It was a reminder of the deep spiritual roots that run through this city.

After a day of sightseeing, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at Takashimaya Kyoto S.C.. Located on Shijo Street, this department store is a shopper's paradise, offering everything from high-end fashion to local crafts and souvenirs. I was particularly interested in checking out the T8 specialty store zone, which features art, culture, and unique items. We wandered through the different floors, admiring the displays and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. I found a beautiful silk scarf that I couldn't resist buying, and Hans picked up a few souvenirs for his colleagues back in Germany. It was a fun way to unwind after a day of exploring and find some treasures to take home with us.


Explore Takashimaya Kyoto S.C. for an unforgettable shopping experience, blending tradition and modernity in the heart of Kyoto.

As evening approached, our stomachs started to rumble, so we made our way to Premium Pound Gion for dinner. This teppanyaki restaurant is known for its high-quality Kobe beef and skilled chefs who put on a show while they cook. The experience was nothing short of spectacular. We sat at the counter, watching as our chef expertly prepared each dish with precision and flair. The Kobe beef was incredibly tender and flavorful, melting in our mouths with each bite. The chef was also quite entertaining, engaging us in conversation and sharing stories about the food and the region. It was a truly memorable dining experience that combined culinary excellence with Japanese hospitality.


Experience culinary artistry at Premium Pound Gion – where French cuisine meets Japanese teppanyaki in the heart of Kyoto's historic Gion district.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Kyoto has to offer. From the historical depths of the Railway Museum and Tō-ji Temple to the modern heights of Kyoto Tower and the bustling atmosphere of Takashimaya, this city is a captivating blend of old and new. Each experience added another layer to our understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture. As we walked back to our hotel, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this incredible city with Hans.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the more traditional side of Kyoto again, visiting Kyoto Ebisu Shrine, the Gion Shinbashi Bridge, and the Kyoto Shibori Museum. And to cap off the day, we're thinking of checking out Rocking Bar ING for a bit of nightlife. I'm already excited for what tomorrow holds!

The Aoi Matsuri festival is also taking place today and I'm sad we missed it, hopefully we'll be able to attend next year!