Exploring Kyoto's Cultural Treasures with Friends

Farewell, Kyoto!

As our journey through Kyoto draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible blend of history, culture, and modern innovation that this city so effortlessly embodies. Today was a day of delving into aspects of Kyoto often overlooked, yet deeply enriching – a fitting end to our adventure with friends.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Fujiya. I opted for their special breakfast course, which featured a delicate steamed egg with homemade plum tea, followed by their signature eel sandwich. It was an exquisite start, perfectly setting the tone for a day of exploration. Jürgen, ever the early bird, was already buzzing with excitement about the Railway Museum. I must admit, I was equally intrigued. I have to remember to buy a travel adapter when I get back to Berlin!

All Aboard the Kyoto Railway Museum

The Kyoto Railway Museum was our first stop, and what a fascinating place it turned out to be! It's not just for train enthusiasts; it’s a journey through Japan’s technological and social history. The museum boasts an impressive collection of locomotives, from the earliest steam engines to the sleek Shinkansen bullet trains. Jürgen, with his architect's eye, was particularly taken with the design and engineering of the trains.

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.

We explored the various exhibits, each telling a story of innovation and progress. I was captivated by the sheer scale of the steam locomotives and the intricate mechanisms that powered them. It was amazing to see how these machines had shaped the landscape and the lives of people across Japan. One of the highlights was the railway diorama, a sprawling miniature world with model trains zipping through meticulously crafted landscapes. The attention to detail was astonishing!

We even had the chance to walk underneath a retired freight locomotive, getting a close-up view of its inner workings. It was a truly immersive experience, and I gained a newfound appreciation for the ingenuity of railway engineering. There was also an opportunity to try out train driving simulators, but the line was quite long, filled with children eager to test their skills. Perhaps another time!

Sometimes, the most unexpected detours lead to the greatest discoveries.

After immersing ourselves in railway history, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Oryori Menami, a restaurant known for its Kyoto-style home cooking. The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, and the food was simply divine. I savored every bite of the seasonal vegetables and the delicate flavors of the local cuisine. It was a comforting and satisfying meal, a perfect interlude between our explorations.

Experience authentic Obanzai cuisine in Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward at Oryori Menami - where tradition meets taste.

Stepping into the Past at Toei Kyoto Studio Park

Next on our itinerary was the Toei Kyoto Studio Park, a place where film-making magic comes to life. This theme park is also a working movie set, specializing in jidaigeki, or historical dramas. As we entered, we were transported back to the Edo period, with streets lined with traditional buildings, samurai warriors, and geishas strolling by.

Discover the enchantment of Japanese cinema at Toei Kyoto Studio Park, where film sets and interactive experiences come together for endless fun.

We watched a ninja show, complete with acrobatic stunts and thrilling sword fights. The performers were incredibly skilled, and the show was a delightful mix of action and humor. It was fascinating to see how these historical dramas are made, and we even caught a glimpse of a film crew setting up a scene. The park offers a unique blend of entertainment and education, providing insights into the world of Japanese cinema.

I found myself particularly drawn to the costume rental area, where visitors could dress up as geishas or samurai. It was tempting, but I decided to leave the role-playing to others. Instead, we explored the various attractions, including a 3D maze and a shuriken dojo, where visitors could try their hand at throwing ninja stars. I must admit, my aim wasn't quite up to par, but it was fun nonetheless! Apparently, the Studio Park is hosting a Ninja Extreme Party this spring, combining traditional ninja culture with extreme sports and EDM. Sounds like quite the spectacle!

The Art of Craft at the Kyoto Museum of Crafts and Design

Our final stop for the day was the Kyoto Museum of Crafts and Design. This museum showcases the exquisite artistry and craftsmanship that Kyoto is renowned for. From ceramics and textiles to lacquerware and metalwork, the exhibits were a testament to the skill and dedication of Kyoto’s artisans.

Experience the beauty of Japanese craftsmanship at the Kyoto Museum of Crafts and Design, where tradition meets innovation in a cultural haven.

I was particularly impressed by the intricate details of the lacquerware and the delicate beauty of the ceramics. The museum also featured live demonstrations by local artisans, giving us a glimpse into the traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. It was inspiring to see how these artisans continue to preserve and innovate these ancient crafts.

The museum is currently hosting the KYOTO CRAFTS and DESIGN COMPETITION 2024-2025, showcasing contemporary works that draw inspiration from traditional techniques. It was fascinating to see how these artists are pushing the boundaries of craft and design, creating innovative and beautiful pieces that reflect the spirit of modern Kyoto. I saw that the museum often has demonstrations of different crafts such as Kyoto yuzen dyeing, bamboo crafts, and lacquerware.

Before heading back to the hotel, we stopped at mumokuteki goods & wears Kyoto, a shop that features a variety of goods from local businesses. I loved the unique finds and picked up a few souvenirs for Sophie. Jürgen found a beautiful hand-wired metal tea strainer for his architectural studio.

Explore mumokuteki Goods & Wears in Kyoto for unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the essence of Japanese culture.

A Final Toast to Kyoto

For our final dinner in Kyoto, we chose Kyoto cuisine Hanasaki Nishikiten, a restaurant that celebrates the essence of seasonal ingredients. The Kyo-Kaiseki provided an opportunity to enjoy the flavors of the season. Each dish was a work of art, carefully prepared and beautifully presented. It was a fitting end to our culinary journey through Kyoto. The restaurant was near the Nishiki Market which was remarkably clean, and offered a seasonal menu with dishes like small bowl, appetizer, sashimi, soup, grilled dish, boiled dish, tempura, sushi, miso soup and dessert.

Discover authentic Kyoto cuisine at Hanasaki Nishikiten—where tradition meets culinary artistry in every exquisite dish.

To cap off our last night, we decided to visit a local bar. We chose Kyoto Pub, drawn in by its lively atmosphere. It was a great spot to relax and reflect on our adventures, sharing stories and laughter with newfound friends. While it wasn't too far from the hotel, we could have also gone to Zaza Pub or The Common One Bar.

Experience Kyoto's vibrant nightlife at Kyoto Pub, where tradition meets modernity in a cozy setting filled with local flavors.

As I sit here, penning these final thoughts, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we’ve shared in Kyoto. This city has a way of weaving its magic, leaving an indelible mark on the soul. Tomorrow, we begin our journey back home, carrying with us memories that will last a lifetime. While this chapter of our adventure comes to an end, I know that Kyoto will forever hold a special place in my heart.

Until next time, Kyoto. Auf Wiedersehen!