Cultural Immersion in Historic Kyoto

A Day of Temples and Tastes

Today was a day of deep dives into Kyoto's spiritual heart, a journey that took us through vibrant red gates, serene temple gardens, and halls filled with ancient artistry. It was a day where the past felt vividly present, and every corner held a story waiting to be discovered. And, of course, no day is complete without experiencing the local cuisine – a delightful adventure for the taste buds that complemented our cultural explorations.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Anzukko. It's a cozy spot, tucked away, but well-known for its gyoza. I opted for their signature Anzukko Gyoza, and Greta tried the seafood boiled dumplings. Lila, ever the adventurous one, went for the Camembert cheese gyoza. My gyoza was delicious, each bite a perfect balance of juicy meat and crispy skin. Greta enjoyed the seafood dumplings, which had a unique Southeast Asian twist with the fish sauce and sweet chili sauce. Lila was thrilled with her creamy, cheese-filled gyoza. It was a delightful start to our day, setting the stage for the cultural explorations ahead.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Anzukko in Kyoto - renowned for exquisite gyoza and vibrant izakaya atmosphere.

Our first stop was the breathtaking Fushimi Inari Taisha. Even in January, the air was crisp and invigorating as we approached the seemingly endless path of vermilion torii gates. The steady climb was a bit challenging, but Lila was excited, counting each gate as we passed. The further we ascended, the fewer people we encountered, allowing us to truly appreciate the surreal beauty of the surroundings. The sunlight filtering through the gates created an ethereal glow, casting long shadows that danced along the path.


Discover the spiritual heart of Kyoto at Fushimi Inari Taisha, renowned for its thousands of striking red torii gates and serene hiking trails.

Sometimes, the most profound journeys are those that lead us inward, reflecting on the path we've walked and the steps we've yet to take.

As we climbed, I couldn't help but reflect on the significance of these gates. Each one is a donation from individuals and businesses, a symbol of gratitude and hope. It’s a tangible representation of faith and a testament to the enduring power of belief. I told Lila about the Shinto god Inari, the protector of grains, commerce, and households, and how foxes are believed to be Inari's messengers. She was fascinated by the fox statues we encountered along the way, each with its own unique expression and posture.

We made it to Yotsutsuji Intersection, about halfway up the mountain, where we paused to catch our breath and admire the panoramic view of Kyoto. The city stretched out before us, a tapestry of rooftops and winding streets, framed by the distant mountains. It was a moment of quiet contemplation, a chance to appreciate the beauty and tranquility of this sacred place.

After descending Fushimi Inari, we headed to Tofuku-ji Temple, a serene escape from the vibrant energy of the shrine. Founded in 1236, Tofuku-ji is known for its stunning Zen gardens and its monumental Sanmon gate, the oldest of any Zen temple in Japan. As we walked through the temple grounds, the crisp winter air carried the scent of pine and damp earth, creating a sense of peace and tranquility.


Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Tofuku-ji Temple, a must-visit Buddhist landmark in Kyoto.

The gardens were a masterpiece of minimalist design, with carefully arranged stones, raked gravel, and patches of moss creating a harmonious and meditative landscape. Lila was particularly fascinated by the checkerboard pattern in the northern garden, a unique combination of stones and moss that sparked her curiosity. We strolled across the Tsutenkyo Bridge, taking in the panoramic view of the Sengyokukan valley. I could only imagine how spectacular it must be during the autumn foliage season, with the entire valley ablaze in vibrant colors. Even in winter, the bare trees and snow-dusted landscape had a stark beauty that was captivating.

Our final temple visit of the day was to Sanjusangendo Temple, home to 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The sheer scale of the temple hall, the longest wooden structure in Japan, was awe-inspiring. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by a sea of golden statues, each one unique and intricately crafted. The central statue of the 1,000-armed Kannon exuded a sense of compassion and serenity, its many arms reaching out to embrace all beings.


Explore the serene Sanjusangendo Temple, home to 1001 captivating Kannon statues and a peaceful retreat in the heart of Kyoto.

I explained to Lila that the 1,000 arms represent Kannon's ability to help people in countless ways. She was amazed by the details of each statue, the delicate features, and the elaborate robes. The atmosphere inside the hall was hushed and reverent, a space for quiet contemplation and reflection. It was a truly unforgettable experience, a testament to the power of faith and the enduring legacy of Japanese artistry.

For lunch, we sought out AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO, a vegan restaurant near Nishiki Market. Finding vegan options can sometimes be a challenge, but Kyoto pleasantly surprised us with its offerings. The restaurant was tucked away on a quiet backstreet, a charming oasis of plant-based cuisine. I decided on the classic Heavenly Vegan Pancakes, while Greta opted for the taco rice, and Lila chose the soy chick'n. My pancakes were indeed heavenly, light, fluffy, and topped with vegan ice cream and whipped cream. Greta enjoyed her taco rice, a Japanese take on a taco salad, and Lila devoured her soy chick'n, which was surprisingly flavorful and satisfying.


Discover exquisite vegan delights at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO – where culinary creativity meets sustainable living.

After our delightful vegan lunch, we did a bit of shopping at Kyoto LOFT. Lila was excited to browse the colorful stationery and quirky gadgets, while Greta looked for unique souvenirs to bring back to Berlin. I picked up a few Japanese pens and a travel journal to document our adventures. It was a fun and lighthearted interlude, a chance to unwind and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Kyoto's shopping district.


Explore Kyoto LOFT: A vibrant general store with cosmetics, home goods, and unique novelties in the heart of Kyoto.

As evening approached, we made our way to Teppan Tavern Tenamonya for dinner. This small, family-run teppanyaki restaurant is known for its affordable A5 wagyu beef and its welcoming atmosphere. Reservations are a must, as the restaurant only has a limited number of seats. We were greeted warmly by the owners, who made us feel like old friends. I ordered the A5 wagyu steak set, while Greta chose the okonomiyaki, and Lila opted for the grilled prawns. The wagyu steak was melt-in-your-mouth delicious, perfectly seared and seasoned. Greta raved about her okonomiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake filled with cabbage, seafood, and pork belly. Lila loved her grilled prawns, which were cooked to perfection.


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

The owners were incredibly attentive and friendly, chatting with us about our travels and sharing stories about their restaurant. They even surprised us with a complimentary dessert, a refreshing slice of pineapple. It was a truly memorable dining experience, a perfect blend of delicious food and warm hospitality.

As we walked back to our hotel MONday Kyoto Marutamachi, the streets of Kyoto were illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns. The city felt peaceful and serene, a world away from the hustle and bustle of Berlin. Today was a day of profound cultural immersion, a journey that touched our hearts and minds. From the spiritual sanctuaries of Fushimi Inari, Tofuku-ji, and Sanjusangendo to the culinary delights of AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO and Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, every moment was a treasure.


Experience comfort and convenience at Hotel MONday Kyoto Marutamachi, located near iconic attractions like Nijo Castle and Kyoto International Manga Museum.

Tomorrow, we're heading to Arashiyama to explore the bamboo forest and the Tenryu-ji Temple. I'm particularly excited to see the iconic bamboo grove and to experience the tranquility of this natural wonderland. I'm sure it will be another day filled with unforgettable memories. I'm also already looking forward to breakfast at Komefuku, lunch at Arash's Kitchen and dinner at Yasakadori Enraku – more culinary adventures await!

It's amazing how travel can broaden your perspective and deepen your appreciation for the world around you. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family and to connect with fellow travelers through this blog. Until tomorrow, safe travels!