Cultural Adventures in Kyoto with Hans

A Mountain Escape to Spiritual Sanctuaries

Today, Hans and I ventured into the serene mountains north of Kyoto, seeking a tranquil escape from the city's vibrant energy. It was a day filled with breathtaking natural beauty, profound spiritual encounters, and a delightful culinary journey. We explored ancient temples, hiked scenic trails, and savored the flavors of local cuisine, creating memories that will forever be etched in our hearts.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Fujiya. It was a delightful way to fuel up before our mountain adventure. The traditional Japanese breakfast set a perfect tone for the day, filling us with anticipation for the spiritual journey ahead.

After breakfast, we set off towards Mount Kurama, a place renowned for its spiritual significance and stunning natural beauty. The journey itself was an experience, as we traveled through picturesque landscapes that gradually transformed from urban streets to lush, green hills. As we approached the mountain, I could feel a sense of calm wash over me, a feeling of being drawn into a world far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life. I made sure to bring my camera, eager to capture the beauty that awaited us.


Experience the serenity of Mount Kurama, where nature meets spirituality, and rejuvenate your spirit amidst breathtaking landscapes in Kyoto.

Our first stop was Kuramadera Temple, nestled on the slopes of Mount Kurama. As we ascended, either by foot or the convenient cable car, the air grew cooler and crisper, filled with the scent of cedar and earth. The temple's history dates back to 770 AD, founded by Gantei, a disciple of the Chinese monk Jianzhen. Legend says that Gantei had a vision that Mount Kurama possessed great spiritual power, leading him to establish a temple to harness this energy. The temple has been rebuilt several times after fires, but its treasures have always been rescued. It was fascinating to learn that Kurama-dera became independent in 1949, founding its own school of Buddhism, Kurama-kokyo, which blends elements of Buddhism, Shintoism, and local beliefs. Hans was particularly intrigued by the A-Un tigers guarding the Niomon gate, learning that tigers are considered messengers of the Buddhist divinity Bishamonten.


Experience the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Kuramadera Temple in Kyoto, a perfect blend of nature, history, and tranquility.

The journey through Mount Kurama and its sacred sites was a testament to the enduring power of faith and the profound connection between humanity and nature.

The main hall offered a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, a sight that truly took my breath away. The intricate architecture of the temple, combined with the stunning natural backdrop, created a sense of harmony and peace. We took our time exploring the various halls and shrines, each with its own unique history and significance. I found myself particularly drawn to the statues of the Tengu, the long-nosed creatures believed to be guardians of the mountain. Learning about the legend of Minamoto no Yoshitsune, who was said to have been trained in swordsmanship by the Tengu, added an extra layer of mystique to the experience.

After immersing ourselves in the spiritual ambiance of Kuramadera Temple, we embarked on a hike towards Kifune Shrine. The trail was a winding path through a dense cedar forest, with sunlight filtering through the canopy, creating an ethereal glow. The hike itself was invigorating, a chance to connect with nature and appreciate the tranquility of the mountains. As we walked, we passed by ancient stone lanterns, moss-covered statues, and small, hidden shrines, each adding to the sense of discovery and adventure. We even saw some locals sounding conch shells for purification practice, a truly unique experience that added to the mystical atmosphere.


Discover the serene beauty of Kifune Shrine, a hidden gem in Kyoto where spirituality meets nature amidst lush landscapes.

Kifune Shrine, nestled in a forested valley, is dedicated to the god of water and rain. The shrine's history dates back over 1,600 years, believed to have been founded by the goddess Tamayori-hime, who traveled by boat from Osaka to the mountains north of Kyoto. The shrine is known for its association with water, which was exceedingly important to the Japanese of old who relied on water as a precious and fickle commodity in agriculture. Legend says that the goddess Tamayori-hime appeared on a yellow boat in Osaka Bay and declared that the people were to build a shrine wherever the boat's journey ended. We learned that Kifune Shrine serves as the head shrine for about 450 Kifune Shrines across Japan. The shrine is also associated with the Ushi no toki mairi, the ritual of wearing candles on one's head and laying a curse at a shrine during the hour of the Ox.

One of the unique aspects of Kifune Shrine is its water fortune-telling. We purchased paper slips (omikuji) and dipped them into the sacred water, revealing our fortunes as the words magically appeared on the paper. It was a fun and intriguing experience, adding a touch of mystery to our visit. I found the experience of watching the fortunes appear quite captivating, as if the water itself held the answers to our questions.

For lunch, we decided to try Hyoto Shijo Karasuma, a restaurant known for its elegant Japanese setting and seasonal dishes. The restaurant is located a short walk from Karasuma Station. We savored the flavors of the region, enjoying a meal that was both delicious and visually stunning. We opted for their specialty, the “dashi shabu,” which allowed us to fully experience the essence of Japanese cuisine. The locally grown ingredients were incredibly fresh, and the presentation was impeccable. It was a delightful culinary experience that perfectly complemented our day of exploration and spiritual discovery. I made sure to try the Temari sushi, which was not only delicious but also beautifully arranged.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors with exquisite hot pot and Kaiseki dishes at Hyoto Shijo Karasuma in Kyoto.

In the evening, we decided to indulge in a bit of whimsy and dined at Alice On Wednesday. The restaurant was inspired by Alice in Wonderland and offered a unique dining experience. From the decor to the menu, everything was designed to transport us into the whimsical world of Lewis Carroll's classic tale. The restaurant is actually part of a chain of Alice in Wonderland-themed restaurants. The wait staff were dressed as characters from the story, and the dishes were creatively named and presented. It was a fun and lighthearted way to end our day, a chance to embrace our inner child and enjoy a bit of fantasy. I particularly enjoyed the themed cocktails, each one a unique and flavorful concoction.


Discover whimsical fashion accessories and delectable desserts at Alice On Wednesday in Osaka's lively Nishishinsaibashi district.

After dinner, we decided to unwind at Caamm bar, a cozy spot known for its extensive selection of whiskies and creative cocktails. The bar had a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a nightcap after a day of exploration. We enjoyed a couple of expertly crafted drinks, chatting with the friendly bartender and soaking in the ambiance of the bar. It was the perfect way to reflect on our day and savor the memories we had created. I noticed that the bar had an impressive collection of Scotch whiskies, which reminded me of Hans's love for a good single malt.


Discover the lively spirit of Kyoto at Caamm Bar, where traditional hospitality meets modern nightlife in a vibrant setting.

As we made our way back to the hotel, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had shared. From the spiritual heights of Mount Kurama to the whimsical depths of Alice On Wednesday, it was a day filled with discovery, wonder, and joy. It was a reminder of the beauty and diversity of Kyoto, a city that continues to surprise and enchant me with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, our last day in Kyoto, I'm excited to explore Kyoto Station Daikaidan (Great Staircase), the Kyoto Theater, and Kamogawa Delta. We also plan to visit Omiyage Kaido for some last-minute souvenir shopping. It's bittersweet to think that our journey is coming to an end, but I'm determined to make the most of our final day in this magical city. I know that the memories we've created here will stay with us long after we've returned home, inspiring us to continue exploring the world and embracing new adventures.

The day was a beautiful reminder of why I love to travel and share my experiences on Evendo. It's not just about seeing new places, but about immersing myself in different cultures, connecting with people, and discovering new things about myself. And as I drift off to sleep tonight, I'm already dreaming of our next adventure, wherever it may take us.

Until tomorrow,
Maria