Exploring Kyoto's Cultural Treasures with Friends

Whispers of the Bamboo Forest

Today, Kyoto unveiled another layer of its enchanting soul. It was a day of serene exploration, a journey into nature's embrace, and a delightful dive into the past. Arashiyama, with its iconic bamboo forest and historic temples, was our destination, and it did not disappoint. Jürgen and I, along with our friends, embarked on a day that blended natural beauty with cultural immersion, leaving us with memories to cherish.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Arash's Kitchen. It was a delightful start, the Persian and Indian flavors offering a unique twist to our Kyoto adventure. The restaurant was cozy and welcoming, a perfect spot to fuel up before our explorations. I opted for a traditional Persian naan, while Jürgen enjoyed a spicy Indian curry. It was a delightful fusion of cultures, just like Kyoto itself.

With our appetites satisfied, we made our way to Arashiyama. The anticipation was palpable as we approached the famed bamboo grove. I had read so much about it, seen countless pictures, but nothing could have prepared me for the reality. As we stepped into the grove, the towering stalks of bamboo enveloped us, creating a world of green. The sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, casting dappled shadows on the path. It was an ethereal experience, a symphony of nature's whispers.


Discover the serene beauty of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, a tranquil escape filled with towering bamboo groves and enchanting pathways.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest was indeed crowded, as many travel blogs had warned. However, as we ventured deeper, the throngs of tourists began to thin out. We found ourselves surrounded by tranquility, the only sounds the rustling of bamboo leaves and the distant chirping of birds. It was a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, a moment of serenity amidst the chaos.

Next on our itinerary was Tenryu-ji Temple, a Zen temple nestled at the foot of the mountains. The temple's Sogenchi Garden was a masterpiece of landscape design, a harmonious blend of nature and art. The garden, which dates back to the 14th century, featured a central pond, meticulously manicured shrubs, and carefully placed rocks. It was a scene of tranquil beauty, a testament to the Zen aesthetic.


Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. A cultural gem for every traveler.

As we strolled through the garden, Jürgen, ever the architect, was particularly impressed by the way the mountains of Arashiyama were incorporated into the design. The concept of *shakkei*, or borrowed scenery, was brilliantly executed, creating a seamless connection between the garden and the natural world beyond. I found myself captivated by the vibrant colors of the cherry blossoms, which were just beginning to bloom. It was a sign of spring's arrival, a promise of warmer days to come. The temple was preparing for a Cherry Blossom Viewing Party in early April. I made a mental note to check if we could attend another one before we leave Kyoto.

After immersing ourselves in the tranquility of Tenryu-ji Temple, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy. Our destination was Harajuku Chicago Kyoto Store, a vintage clothing shop known for its eclectic collection of pre-loved garments and accessories. As a freelance translator, I'm always on the lookout for unique finds that reflect my personal style.


Explore the vibrant world of vintage fashion at Harajuku Chicago Kyoto Store, a treasure trove for unique clothing finds in the heart of Kyoto.

The store was a treasure trove of vintage fashion, a delightful mix of modern trends and retro flair. I browsed through racks of kimonos, obi, and vintage dresses, each piece telling a story of the past. The prices were reasonable, making it easy to indulge in guilt-free shopping. I ended up purchasing a beautiful silk scarf with a traditional Japanese design. It was the perfect souvenir, a tangible reminder of our Kyoto adventure.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Gion for dinner. We had reservations at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION, a renowned establishment known for its exquisite Kobe beef. The restaurant was elegant and refined, the perfect setting for a special meal. We were seated at a counter facing the teppan hotplate, where the chef skillfully prepared our steaks.


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

The Kobe beef was, without a doubt, the most tender and flavorful beef I had ever tasted. It was a culinary masterpiece, a testament to the art of Japanese cuisine. The chef expertly grilled the steaks to perfection, ensuring that each bite was melt-in-your-mouth delicious. We savored every moment, relishing the flavors and textures of this exquisite dish.

After dinner, we decided to cap off the evening with a visit to Bar K6, a sophisticated bar known for its expertly crafted cocktails. The bar had a cozy and intimate atmosphere, a perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring. Jürgen and I ordered our favorite drinks – a classic Negroni for him and a Kir Royale for me. We sipped our cocktails, reminiscing about the day's adventures and planning our itinerary for tomorrow.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding up the mountainside. We will also visit Tōfuku-ji Temple, known for its stunning Zen gardens and vibrant autumn foliage (though I am sure the fresh green will be stunning as well). And, of course, we'll take a stroll through Gion, Kyoto's geisha district, hoping to catch a glimpse of these elusive figures.

As I sit here now, penning these thoughts, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences of today. Kyoto has a way of captivating the soul, of transporting you to another time and place. It is a city of contrasts, where ancient traditions coexist with modern innovations, where natural beauty blends seamlessly with urban landscapes. It is a city that I am quickly falling in love with, a city that I know will leave an indelible mark on my heart. And I am excited to see what tomorrow brings!

Before I turn in for the night, I must mention a rather amusing incident that occurred at the vintage shop. While Jürgen was patiently waiting for me, he struck up a conversation with one of the shop assistants, a young woman with bright pink hair and an impressive collection of vintage badges. They discussed the merits of different vintage denim brands, and Jürgen, who usually only has eyes for architecture, was suddenly an expert on 1950s Americana. It was a reminder that travel can bring out unexpected sides of ourselves, and that even the most serious architect can have a hidden passion for vintage fashion. Perhaps I'll encourage him to try thrifting with me back in Berlin!

Good night from Kyoto, and until tomorrow!