Cultural Adventures in Kyoto with Hans

Whispers of Ancient Kyoto

Today was a deep dive into the heart of Kyoto, a day where ancient spirits and modern life danced together in a mesmerizing ballet. It's amazing how this city manages to hold onto its traditions while still embracing the present. Hans and I set out early, eager to soak in as much as possible, and Kyoto certainly didn't disappoint.

Our first stop was the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha. I had seen countless photos of the seemingly endless tunnel of vermilion torii gates, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer scale and spiritual energy of the place. The early morning light filtered through the trees, casting long shadows that danced along the path as we began our ascent. Hans, ever the enthusiastic photographer, was in his element, snapping away at every angle. I, on the other hand, was more focused on the climb itself, feeling the burn in my legs as we made our way up the mountain. I was glad I had my comfortable walking shoes, as I had learned my lesson from previous trips! I didn’t forget my sunscreen today either, as I could feel the sun getting stronger already.


Explore the enchanting Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto's iconic Shinto shrine famous for its thousands of vibrant torii gates and breathtaking mountain trails.
The thousands of torii gates, each donated by individuals and businesses, created a surreal, almost otherworldly atmosphere. It felt like we were walking through a tunnel of wishes and prayers, each gate a testament to the enduring faith of the Japanese people. We only made it about two-thirds of the way up the mountain, but the views overlooking Kyoto were already breathtaking. The city stretched out before us, a tapestry of rooftops and temples, framed by the lush green hills.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its stunning landscapes and architecture, but in the way it invites you to slow down, to breathe, and to connect with something deeper than yourself.

After descending from Fushimi Inari, we made our way to Tōfuku-ji Temple, a serene oasis of Zen gardens and ancient architecture. The temple was founded in the 13th century and its name is derived from two great temples of Nara: Todai-ji and Kofuku-ji. Unlike the vibrant energy of Fushimi Inari, Tofuku-ji exuded a sense of calm and tranquility. The meticulously raked gravel gardens, the moss-covered stones, and the towering cedar trees created a space for contemplation and reflection. We wandered through the gardens, lost in the beauty of the natural world, feeling a sense of peace wash over us. Hans was particularly fascinated by the Hojo garden, which features five different garden styles in one space. He spent ages trying to capture the perfect shot, while I simply sat on a bench and soaked it all in.


Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Tōfuku-ji Temple, a must-visit Buddhist landmark in Kyoto.
For breakfast, we started our day at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO, a charming vegan restaurant. I opted for the heavenly vegan pancakes which were delicious! Hans had a burger, which he really enjoyed. It’s always a joy to find vegan options that are both delicious and satisfying, and AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO certainly delivered. I was very happy to find such a great vegan restaurant here in Kyoto, and it gave me a lot of inspiration to try out some new recipes when I get back to Heidelberg.


Discover exquisite vegan delights at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO – where culinary creativity meets sustainable living.
Lunch was at Saishuan Shiraki, where we savored a delightful and artful vegan meal. I had heard great things about this small, intimate izakaya, and it certainly lived up to the hype. The owner was incredibly charming and prepared a special five-course meal for us, showcasing the best of Kyoto's seasonal vegetables and tofu. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. Unfortunately, it seems Saishuan Shiraki closed its doors in February of 2025, so I am very grateful to have had the chance to experience it.


Discover the authentic flavors of Japan at Saishuan Shiraki - a premier izakaya experience in the heart of Kyoto.
In the late afternoon, we ventured into Gion, Kyoto's geisha district, hoping to catch a glimpse of these elusive figures. The narrow streets, lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, transported us back in time. It felt like stepping onto a movie set, the air thick with history and intrigue. We strolled along Hanamikoji Street, admiring the architecture and peeking into the doorways of teahouses and restaurants. While we didn't spot any geishas, we did get a sense of the unique atmosphere of Gion, a place where tradition and artistry are still very much alive.


Explore Gion, Kyoto's iconic geisha district, where tradition meets charm in a captivating blend of culture and history.
Before dinner, I wanted to do a little shopping. We stopped by Noren by Corazon, a boutique gift shop that offers a modern twist on traditional Japanese souvenirs. I was looking for a special memento of our trip, something that would capture the essence of Kyoto. I ended up buying a beautiful tea canister made with Yuzen washi paper, adorned with a delicate cherry blossom design. It's the perfect reminder of our time here, and I can't wait to use it when I get home.


Explore Noren by Corazon in Kyoto for unique souvenirs that reflect the city's rich culture and craftsmanship.
For dinner, we had reservations at Jiki Miyazawa, a Michelin-starred restaurant that specializes in Kyoto-style Kaiseki cuisine. The restaurant is known for its signature dishes, such as sesame tofu and slightly firm-cooked rice. The meal was an exquisite journey through the flavors of Japan, each dish a testament to the chef's skill and creativity. The ambiance was elegant and refined, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Indulge in an authentic Kaiseki dining experience at Jiki Miyazawa, where seasonal flavors meet exquisite presentation in the heart of Kyoto.
As we walked back to our hotel, the city was quiet and peaceful. The lanterns glowed softly, casting a warm light on the streets. I thought about everything we had seen and done today, from the soaring heights of Fushimi Inari to the tranquil gardens of Tofuku-ji, to the enchanting streets of Gion. Kyoto is a city that truly nourishes the soul, a place where you can connect with the past, appreciate the present, and dream about the future.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nijō Castle, and the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. I’m excited to continue exploring this beautiful city and discover even more of its hidden treasures. And perhaps, we'll find a cozy bar like Bar K6 to unwind in the evening!

What I love most about traveling, and especially about being in Kyoto, is the feeling of being transported to another time and place. It's a chance to escape the everyday, to learn about new cultures, and to connect with people from all walks of life. And of course, it's a chance to create memories that will last a lifetime. I am also grateful to share this experience with my loving husband, Hans, who makes every adventure even more special. We both learned so much today about the culture of Japan, and it made our bond as a couple even stronger. It is so important to share new experiences with the person you love.

In the meantime, I'm off to dream of torii gates, Zen gardens, and geishas. Until tomorrow, sayōnara!