Cultural Immersion in Kyoto: A 13-Day Japanese Adventure

Kyoto's Contrasts: Temples by Day, Rock by Night

Today was a day of embracing contrasts in Kyoto, a city that effortlessly blends the ancient with the modern. Lena and I set out to explore some of the city's most beautiful temples and parks, and ended the night in a bar that could have been plucked straight from a rock concert in Heidelberg. It's these kinds of days that remind me why I love traveling – the unexpected juxtapositions and the unique experiences that come with them.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Komefuku. I opted for one of the set tempura lunches and it was the perfect way to start a day of sightseeing. The service was quick and the food was delicious, and it gave us the energy we needed for the morning of temple visits we had planned.

Kodaiji Temple: A Journey Through Time

Our first stop was Kodaiji Temple. Founded in 1606 by the widow of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan's most important historical figures, the temple is a stunning example of Zen Buddhism. It was amazing to see the support of Tokugawa Ieyasu, Hideyoshi’s successor, in building this temple.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Kodaiji Temple, a historical Buddhist temple in Kyoto, showcasing stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.

As we wandered through the temple grounds, I couldn't help but feel a sense of tranquility wash over me. The rock garden, designed to represent the vast ocean, was particularly striking. The manicured gravel and carefully placed stones created a sense of peace and contemplation. Lena, ever the artist, was captivated by the intricate designs and the way the light played across the surfaces. The construction notice was there, but it didn't impact our visit at all.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its temples and gardens, but in the way it embraces both tradition and modernity, offering something for every traveler's soul.

We also explored the tsukiyama-style garden, complete with a pond, man-made hills, and meticulously arranged trees. The Kaizando Hall, where Nene, Hideyoshi's wife, would pray for her husband's soul, was a poignant reminder of their love and devotion. The temple is known for its special lacquerwork, known as Kodaiji Makie, and it was interesting to learn about this art form.

Maruyama Park: Nature's Masterpiece

Next, we strolled through Maruyama Park, adjacent to Yasaka Shrine. The park is Kyoto's oldest, opened in 1886, and a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It was still busy with cherry blossoms when we visited, and the atmosphere was festive and lively. The park was opened in 1886.


Experience the natural beauty of Maruyama Park in Kyoto, a serene oasis filled with cherry blossoms and cultural heritage.

The centerpiece of the park is the weeping cherry tree, known as Gion Yozakura, which was illuminated in the evening. While we didn't stay until nightfall, I could imagine how magical it must be to see the blossoms glowing in the dark.

We found a quiet spot beneath one of the cherry trees and simply sat, soaking in the beauty of our surroundings. It was a perfect moment of peace amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

Yasaka Shrine: A Vibrant Hub of Culture

Our final stop of the temple visits was Yasaka Shrine, also known as Gion Shrine. Founded over 1350 years ago, it's one of the most famous shrines in Kyoto, and its location between the Gion and Higashiyama districts makes it a popular stop for tourists. The shrine's main hall, which combines the inner sanctuary and offering hall into a single building, was impressive.


Discover the serene beauty of Yasaka Shrine, a historical Shinto sanctuary in Kyoto, renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural festivals.

While we were there, we learned about the Gion Matsuri, the shrine's summer festival, which dates back over a thousand years and involves a procession with massive floats and hundreds of participants. I made a mental note to try and visit Kyoto during July to experience the festival firsthand. Apparently there are other festivals year-round, so maybe we'll have to come back multiple times! It's dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto with his consort, Kushinadahime-no-Mikoto.

Hanasaki: A Culinary Respite

After a day of exploring temples and parks, we were ready for a delicious lunch. We chose Hanasaki, and it turned out to be an excellent choice. The restaurant had a traditional Japanese atmosphere. Lena and I enjoyed a flavorful and satisfying meal. It was the perfect way to refuel before our evening adventure.


Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Hanasaki in Kyoto - where tradition meets artistry in every delicious dish.

Rocking Bar ING: A Night of Nostalgia

As much as I love the serene beauty of Kyoto's temples and gardens, I also have a soft spot for rock music. So, when I discovered Rocking Bar ING, I knew we had to check it out. The bar is located in a building on Kiyamachi. My friend back in Heidelberg would love this place.


Discover Rocking Bar ING in Kyoto, where the spirit of rock music comes alive amidst an eclectic atmosphere and vibrant nightlife.

The bar was small and dimly lit, with walls covered in rock memorabilia. The owner, Hako, was a true music fanatic, with an impressive collection of vinyl records. As soon as we walked in, he greeted us warmly and asked what we wanted to hear.

I requested some classic rock tunes, and Hako happily obliged. Soon, the bar was filled with the sounds of Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and other iconic bands. It was like stepping back in time to my college days in Canada, brewing beer and listening to rock music with my friends.

Lena, who isn't quite as into rock music as I am, still had a great time. She enjoyed the lively atmosphere and the chance to meet some of the locals. Hako even played a few German bands for her, which she appreciated.

As the night wore on, we found ourselves chatting with other patrons, sharing stories and laughter. It was a truly memorable experience, and a reminder that travel is about more than just seeing the sights – it's about connecting with people and experiencing different cultures.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Higashiyama Jisho-ji, Chionin Temple, and Shorenin Temple. I'm also hoping to do some shopping at Kyoto LOFT. Another day of cultural immersion awaits, and I can't wait to see what Kyoto has in store for us.

I'm really glad that Lena and I could experience the nightlife, even if it was just for a little bit. It's easy to get wrapped up in the sightseeing, but it's important to take time to relax and have fun, too.