Solo Adventure in the Cultural Heart of Japan: Exploring Kyoto

Kyoto's Many Layers

Today was a day of striking contrasts, a whirlwind tour through Kyoto that took me from panoramic city views to the vibrant chaos of a bustling market, and finally, to the serene indulgence of exquisite cuisine. It was a day that showcased the many layers of this captivating city, a blend of the modern and the traditional, the simple and the extravagant.

My day began with a visit to the Nidec Kyoto Tower. I'd seen it countless times in photographs, its modern silhouette a stark contrast to the traditional temples and shrines that dominate Kyoto's skyline. But seeing it in person, standing at its base, was something else entirely. The tower, resembling a lighthouse, stood tall and proud. I made my way up, eager to see Kyoto from a different perspective. The view from the top was breathtaking. From 100 meters high, the entire city stretched out before me, a tapestry of ancient temples, modern buildings, and the rolling hills in the distance. I could spot Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Nishi Hongan-ji Temple, tiny in the distance. It was a clear day, and I could even make out the faint outline of Osaka in the far distance.


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

As I gazed out at the cityscape, I couldn't help but reflect on my own journey. Here I was, a software engineer from Zurich, standing in the heart of Japan, a world away from my familiar routine. It was moments like these that made all the planning and travel worthwhile. It reminded me of why I started this blog in the first place – to share these experiences, to inspire others to step outside their comfort zones and explore the world. I spent a good hour up there, soaking in the view and snapping photos, trying to capture the essence of Kyoto from above.

Leaving Kyoto Tower, I headed towards Kyoto Station. The station itself is an architectural marvel, a futuristic structure of glass and steel that seems to defy its historic surroundings. It was built in 1997 to commemorate Kyoto's 1,200th anniversary. Designed by architect Hiroshi Hara, the station features a vast central hall with a soaring glass ceiling and a network of walkways and escalators that create a sense of constant movement. The station is more than just a transportation hub; it's a city within a city, housing a department store, a hotel, a theater, and numerous restaurants and shops. I wandered through the station, admiring the architecture and soaking in the atmosphere. It was a bustling place, filled with locals and tourists alike, all heading to different destinations. I grabbed a quick coffee at a cafe, watching the crowds pass by, before continuing on my journey.


Discover Kyoto Station: A stunning architectural marvel and gateway to the historic treasures of Kyoto, offering dining, shopping, and an unforgettable cultural experience.

Next on my itinerary was Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto's Kitchen. After the modern architecture of Kyoto Station, it was a complete change of scenery. The market was a narrow, bustling street lined with hundreds of stalls selling everything from fresh seafood and pickles to sweets and kitchenware. The air was thick with the smells of grilling fish, simmering sauces, and exotic spices. It was a feast for the senses, a sensory overload in the best possible way. The market has over 120 stalls, and it is a place where local restaurant chefs and families come to buy ingredients. I decided to try a Kyoto Food Tour, which started at the Kyoto Apple store. The tour lasted 2 hours, and included lunch at multiple food vendors.


Explore Nishiki Market, Kyoto's vibrant food market, where local delicacies meet rich cultural heritage in a delightful shopping experience.

As I strolled through the market, sampling various delicacies, I couldn't help but think of Ana and Luka. They would have loved this place, especially Luka with his adventurous palate. I made a mental note to bring them back here someday. I tasted everything from fresh seafood skewers to pickled vegetables and mochi. I even tried some local sake, which was surprisingly smooth and refreshing. The vendors were friendly and welcoming, eager to share their knowledge of the local cuisine. It was an immersive experience, a chance to connect with the local culture through its food. I discovered hidden restaurants and bars to try for the rest of my trip in Gion, Pontocho, and Kiyamachi around the Nishiki Market.

To truly experience a place, you must immerse yourself in its culture, its history, and above all, its food.

After the sensory overload of Nishiki Market, I was ready for a more relaxed dining experience. For lunch, I decided to try Goichi Pizza, a small pizzeria known for its authentic stone-oven pizzas. It was a welcome change from the traditional Japanese cuisine I had been indulging in. The pizza was delicious, with a crispy crust and flavorful toppings. The atmosphere was casual and cozy, a perfect place to unwind after a busy morning. I chatted with the friendly staff, who spoke excellent English, and learned that the pizzeria was popular with both locals and tourists. It was a reminder that even in a city as steeped in tradition as Kyoto, there's always room for a little bit of Italy. I decided to order a takeout pizza, since many Western guests staying at MIMARU hotels prefer to take out pizza instead of Japanese food.


Discover the delicious fusion of Italian tradition and local flavors at Goichi Pizza in Kyoto - an unmissable dining experience!

As evening approached, I made my way to Gion, Kyoto's geisha district, for dinner. I had made a reservation at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION, known for its exquisite Kobe beef teppanyaki. The restaurant was elegant and refined, with a hushed atmosphere that spoke of understated luxury. I was seated at a counter facing the teppan hotplate, where a skilled chef was preparing the meal. I selected a tasting menu that featured Kobe filet. The meal thoughtfully included soup, salad, and an array of vegetables. Plus, the choice between rice or bread and dessert.


Experience unparalleled flavors at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION in Kyoto - a must-visit for steak lovers seeking authenticity.

The chef expertly grilled the Kobe beef, searing it to perfection and then slicing it into bite-sized pieces. It was the first time I had visited Mouriya Gion, but they have been serving Kobe wagyu beef for over 130 years. The beef was tender and flavorful, melting in my mouth with each bite. It was a culinary experience unlike any other, a testament to the quality of Japanese ingredients and the skill of Japanese chefs. The chef also cooked some vegetables, such as zucchini and asparagus. To add more carbs, I ordered garlic fried rice.

After dinner, I decided to experience Kyoto's nightlife with a visit to Bar K6. The bar was dimly lit and intimate, with a long wooden counter and shelves lined with bottles of whisky and cognac. The bartender was a master of his craft, mixing cocktails with precision and flair. I ordered a classic Old Fashioned, which was perfectly balanced and expertly crafted. It was a sophisticated and relaxing end to a day of exploration.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Bar K6, where traditional Japanese drinks meet modern bar culture in a cozy setting.

As I sipped my cocktail, I reflected on the day's experiences. From the panoramic views of Kyoto Tower to the bustling energy of Nishiki Market and the exquisite flavors of Kobe beef, it had been a day of contrasts, a day that showcased the many facets of this incredible city. I was grateful for the opportunity to experience it all, to immerse myself in the local culture and to connect with the people and places that make Kyoto so special. It was a day that I would not soon forget.

I was also grateful that I didn't forget any of my TripEssentials, even though I forgot my portable charger and umbrella.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Kyoto International Manga Museum, the Kamigamo Shrine, and the Shimogamo Shrine. I am also planning to have breakfast at French Dining Top of Kyoto, lunch at Izutsu Yatsuhashi Honpo - Takashimaya Kyoto, and dinner at Kikunoi Roan. I also plan to visit Takashimaya Kyoto S.C. for some shopping.

Kyoto is a city that rewards exploration, offering a blend of the modern and the traditional, the simple and the extravagant.