Solo Cultural and Culinary Exploration in Kyoto

Whispers of Ancient Kyoto

Today was a day of wandering through the heart of Kyoto, a journey that felt like stepping back in time. From the serene temples to the bustling shopping streets, every corner held a new discovery, a new flavor, and a deeper appreciation for this city's timeless beauty. It's days like these that remind me why I embarked on this solo culinary and cultural exploration.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Katsukura - Kyoto Porta. Now, I know what you might be thinking: tonkatsu for breakfast? But trust me, it was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. The tonkatsu was crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and the set came with all the fixings – rice, miso soup, and pickles. It was a delightful start, and I appreciated the restaurant's commitment to using healthy vegetable oil for frying. It certainly set the tone for a day filled with culinary adventures.

With a full stomach and a spring in my step, I headed towards Kiyomizu-dera. The temple is perched on a hillside, offering breathtaking views of the city. The crisp February air nipped at my cheeks, but the clear skies made the panorama even more spectacular. As I approached the main hall, I was struck by the sheer scale of the wooden stage that juts out from the hillside. It's an impressive feat of engineering, built without the use of nails. Standing on the stage, I could see the city sprawling below, a tapestry of rooftops and gardens. The temple was founded in 780, and walking through the grounds, I could feel the weight of centuries of history.


Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto, where culture and nature harmoniously blend.

The Otowa Waterfall is located at the base of Kiyomizu-dera's main hall. Its waters are divided into three separate streams, and visitors use cups attached to long poles to drink from them. Each stream's water is said to have a different benefit: longevity, success at school, and a fortunate love life. Legend has it that Enchin Shonin, the founder of Kiyomizu-dera, was guided by a vision to this very spring, solidifying its sacred status. Of course, I had to partake, carefully choosing the stream for longevity – a chef needs to stay in the kitchen for as long as possible, after all! I made sure not to drink from all three, though; as the locals say, that's just greedy.

Leaving Kiyomizu-dera, I strolled down Ninenzaka, a charming street lined with traditional wooden shops and teahouses. The narrow, sloping street was filled with tourists, but it still managed to retain its old-world charm. I browsed through the shops, admiring the handcrafted goods – pottery, fans, and sweets. It was a feast for the senses, and I couldn't resist picking up a few souvenirs for Anjali and Arjun. I imagined Anjali enjoying a cup of green tea in one of the quaint teahouses, while Arjun would probably be more interested in the Studio Ghibli-themed souvenirs.


Experience Ninenzaka's historical charm with traditional wooden structures, vibrant shops, and serene tea houses in the heart of Kyoto.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its grand temples and serene gardens, but in the subtle details of everyday life, the flavors, the sounds, and the smiles of its people.

For lunch, I ventured into Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, a small, family-run restaurant near Yasaka Shrine. The aroma of sizzling meat and savory sauces filled the air as I stepped inside. The restaurant is run by a husband-and-wife team, Hideki and Naoko, who were incredibly welcoming. I decided on the okonomiyaki. It was a savory pancake filled with cabbage, seafood, and pork belly, topped with a generous amount of okonomiyaki sauce, Japanese mayonnaise, and bonito flakes. It was an explosion of flavors and textures, and I savored every bite.


Experience authentic teppanyaki at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, Kyoto's premier destination for Japanese cuisine in a lively izakaya setting.

After lunch, I made my way to Yasaka Shrine, a vibrant Shinto shrine located in the heart of Gion. The shrine was bustling with activity, as locals and tourists alike came to pay their respects. I wandered through the grounds, admiring the colorful buildings and the intricate details of the architecture. The shrine is known for its summer festival, Gion Matsuri, which dates back to the year 869, when the emperor ordered festivities to be held at the shrine to ward off plagues. While there weren't any festivals happening today, I could still feel the energy and history of the place.


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

Before dinner, I decided to do some shopping at the Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade. This covered arcade is home to a mix of traditional shops and modern boutiques, offering everything from local crafts to trendy fashion. I enjoyed browsing through the shops, soaking up the lively atmosphere. The arcade is one of Kyoto's oldest shopping arcades, and it's a fun place to find unique souvenirs and gifts.


Discover the heart of Kyoto at Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade, where traditional charm meets modern shopping and dining.

As evening approached, I made my way to Premium Pound Gion for dinner. This teppanyaki restaurant is known for its high-quality Japanese beef, including Kobe beef and A5 grade Kuroge Wagyu. The restaurant is small and intimate, with only a few seats at the counter, allowing for a personal interaction with the chef. I opted for the Kobe beef course, and it was an experience to remember.


Experience culinary artistry at Premium Pound Gion – where French cuisine meets Japanese teppanyaki in the heart of Kyoto's historic Gion district.

As I walked back to The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Kyoto, I reflected on the day's adventures. From the serene temples to the bustling shopping streets, every moment had been a feast for the senses. Kyoto had once again captivated me with its beauty, its history, and its culinary delights. And as I prepare for tomorrow's journey along the Philosopher's Path, with stops at Eikandō Temple and Nanzen-ji, I can't help but feel a sense of excitement for what new discoveries await.


Experience the perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional charm at The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Kyoto, your ideal base for exploring this historic city.

Tomorrow, I plan to take a leisurely stroll along the Philosopher's Path, a scenic route that follows a canal lined with cherry trees. I'm hoping to catch a glimpse of some early plum blossoms. I'll also be visiting Eikandō Temple, known for its stunning autumn foliage, and Nanzen-ji, a Zen temple with a beautiful rock garden. And in the evening, I'm looking forward to unwinding at the Kyoto Star Bar.

I have to say, this solo trip is turning out to be exactly what I needed. A chance to recharge, to explore, and to indulge in my passions for food and culture. And who knows, maybe I'll even pick up a few new recipes to bring back to my restaurant in Leipzig. Until tomorrow, dear readers!