Exploring Kyoto: A Cultural Adventure with Friends

Kyoto's Charms: A Tuesday of Manga, Markets, and Meals

Today was a delightful dive into the multifaceted soul of Kyoto. From the colorful world of manga to the bustling stalls of Nishiki Market and the refined ambiance of a traditional dinner, it was a day that truly captured the essence of this captivating city. I was joined by my friends, and we were all eager to soak in as much of Kyoto as possible.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store. I had heard whispers that the entrance was easy to miss, and they weren't wrong. Tucked away in a small walkway, it felt like discovering a hidden gem. The tonkatsu was absolutely divine. The pork was tender and juicy, encased in a perfectly crisp, golden crust. The set meal came with all-you-can-eat rice, cabbage, and miso soup, ensuring we were well-fueled for the day's adventures. It was the perfect way to start our day, and definitely set the bar high for the meals to come. The reviews online don't lie; this place is a tonkatsu haven!


Savor the best tonkatsu in Kyoto at Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store—where tradition meets flavor.

With appetites sated, we made our way to Nijō Castle. The sheer scale of the place was impressive, a testament to the power of the Tokugawa shogunate. Built in 1603 by Tokugawa Ieyasu as his Kyoto residence, the castle is a stunning example of feudal architecture. Walking through the Ninomaru Palace, I could almost hear the echoes of shoguns and emperors past. The 'nightingale floors' were particularly fascinating; designed to chirp underfoot, they served as an ingenious security system. The gardens surrounding the palace were equally beautiful, meticulously manicured and serene. The castle has a rich history, having served as an Imperial Palace after the fall of the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1867. It was fascinating to learn that the declaration returning authority to the Imperial Court was made here. Today, the castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a reminder of Japan's rich history.


Experience the grandeur of Nijō Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history, architecture, and nature intertwine in Kyoto's cultural heart.

Kyoto is a city where the past and present intertwine, creating a unique tapestry of experiences for every traveler.

Next on our itinerary was the Kyoto International Manga Museum. Housed in a former elementary school, the museum is a vibrant celebration of all things manga. With a collection of over 300,000 items, including everything from Edo-period caricatures to contemporary international works, it was a manga lover's paradise. I was particularly impressed by the 'Wall of Manga,' a seemingly endless bookshelf filled with 50,000 volumes that visitors are free to read. It was fun to see that there was a growing international section offering manga in English and other languages. The museum also features exhibits on the history and development of manga, including original artwork by famous authors. There was even a room dedicated to kamishibai, a traditional Japanese storytelling format using hand-drawn paper cards. As someone who enjoys both photography and cultural exploration, this stop was the perfect blend of both. It's amazing how manga has evolved into a global phenomenon!


Explore the rich world of Japanese comics at Kyoto International Manga Museum, a cultural gem in Kyoto offering extensive manga collections and engaging exhibitions.

From the colorful world of manga, we plunged into the sensory overload that is Nishiki Market. Known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen,' this narrow, five-block-long shopping street is lined with over a hundred shops and stalls specializing in all things food-related. The market has a history spanning 400 years, reflecting remnants of an ancient marketplace from the Heian period. The energy was infectious as we navigated the crowds, sampling local delicacies at every turn. I tried everything from fresh sashimi and grilled seafood to Kyoto pickles and matcha-flavored sweets. The tako tamago (octopus egg) was particularly memorable – a small octopus with a quail egg nestled in its head! It’s definitely a place to try Kyo-yasai (Kyoto vegetables), which are said to be more nutritious and delicious than veggies in other regions. It was a true feast for the senses, and a fantastic way to experience Kyoto's culinary culture. It’s important to remember not to eat while walking, as it's considered bad manners.


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

After a day of cultural immersion and culinary exploration, it was time for a well-deserved dinner. We had reservations at Yoshikawa, a renowned restaurant specializing in tempura. Located within a traditional ryokan, the restaurant exudes an air of elegance and refinement. We opted for the tempura counter, where we could watch the chefs at work. Each piece of tempura was a work of art, lightly battered and perfectly fried to a golden crisp. From succulent prawns and scallops to delicate vegetables, each bite was a revelation. The tempura was light and not greasy at all, and the presentation was flawless. I learned that Yoshikawa Ryokan provides scrumptious Japanese delicacies, which won the tastes of both locals and tourists. A guest even stated that they were told that the ryokan's restaurant is a favorite of Paul McCartney when in Kyoto. It was the perfect way to end our day, a true Michelin-recommended experience. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such culinary excellence. I learned that the ryokan is an excellent example of early Japanese architectural style, and every room showcases different decoration styles, displaying a unique blend to the traditional Japanese inn.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Yoshikawa, where tradition meets exceptional flavors in the heart of Kyoto.

As we strolled back to The Chapter Kyoto, a Tribute Portfolio™ Hotel, I reflected on the day's adventures. Kyoto had once again exceeded my expectations, offering a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and history. From the grandeur of Nijō Castle to the vibrant energy of Nishiki Market and the refined elegance of Yoshikawa, it was a day that I will cherish forever.


Discover the charm of Kyoto at The Chapter Kyoto, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel - where comfort meets culture in the heart of the city.

Tomorrow, we're planning on taking the Philosopher's Path, visiting Nanzen-ji Temple, and the Ginkaku-ji (Temple of the Silver Pavilion). I'm eager to see what other treasures Kyoto holds in store for us.

I also learned that today, April 29th, is Showa Day, a national holiday in Japan, and Kyokusui no Utage is being reenacted at Jōnangū Shrine in southern Kyoto. I wish we had known about these events earlier, as it would have been interesting to experience them. Additionally, the Meiji Kotokan Hall is open to the public from today until May 6, which is a unique opportunity, but it requires a ticket to the Special Exhibition Japan, an Artistic Melting Pot.

Until then, goodnight from Kyoto!