Winter Wanderings in Kyoto: A Cultural Exploration with My Husband

Echoes of Emperors: A Day Immersed in Kyoto's History

Today was a journey back in time, a day where the echoes of emperors and shoguns resonated through every stone and garden. Maximilian and I set out to explore some of Kyoto's most historically significant sites, and let me tell you, it was a day filled with awe, reflection, and a delightful immersion into Japan's rich past.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Hafuu. I had heard so much about their beef cutlet sandwiches, and I must say, they lived up to the hype. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploring. Maximilian opted for the Wagyu beef cutlet sandwich and a coffee, and it was the perfect way to begin our day of exploration.


Discover Hafuu in Kyoto: where premium Japanese beef meets culinary excellence in an elegant setting.

Our first stop was Nijo Castle, a place that immediately transported me back to the Edo period. The sheer scale of the castle is impressive, but it's the intricate details that truly captivated me. The *Ninomaru Palace*, with its 'nightingale floors' designed to chirp underfoot to warn of intruders, was particularly fascinating. I could almost hear the whispers of the shoguns who once walked those halls. Maximilian was fascinated by the architecture, particularly the way the castle was designed for both defense and aesthetic beauty. The gardens, even in the winter, held a serene beauty, a testament to the Japanese art of landscape design.


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

History is not just a collection of dates and names, but a vibrant tapestry woven with the stories of those who came before us.

After Nijo Castle, we made our way to the Kyoto Imperial Palace. It felt surreal to stand on the grounds where emperors once resided, imagining the grandeur and ceremony that must have filled these spaces. Although the palace itself was impressive, it was the surrounding Kyoto Gyoen National Garden that truly stole my heart. The garden is vast, a green oasis in the middle of the city, and even in January, it possessed a quiet charm. I learned that the plum blossom season starts around mid-January, and I could already see the beginnings of these delicate blooms. I imagined how lovely it must be when the plum trees are in full bloom, filling the air with their sweet fragrance. Maximilian enjoyed the peacefulness of the garden, a welcome respite from the bustling city. We strolled along the gravel paths, taking in the sights and sounds of nature, a perfect way to connect with the history and tranquility of Kyoto.


Explore the historical elegance and natural beauty of Kyoto Imperial Palace, a cultural landmark reflecting Japan's royal history.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a historic park offering stunning landscapes and a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.

For lunch, we ventured to AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO, a vegan restaurant that had been highly recommended. As someone who enjoys trying new and different cuisines, I was excited to see what they had to offer. I opted for the heavenly vegan pancakes, and they were indeed heavenly! Fluffy, light, and topped with a generous serving of vegan cream and ice cream, they were the perfect indulgence. Maximilian, ever the adventurous one, tried the taco rice, a Japanese take on a taco salad, and was pleasantly surprised by the unique flavors. It's amazing how creative vegan cuisine can be, and AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO certainly proved that. I was also happy to support a restaurant with vegan options.


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

As the day drew to a close, we indulged in a culinary experience at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION. The restaurant exuded a modern, fine-dining atmosphere, a departure from the traditional settings we had explored earlier in the day. We chose a tasting menu that featured premium Kobe beef, and it was an absolute delight. The chef prepared the steak teppanyaki-style right in front of us, ensuring that every bite was cooked to perfection. The beef was incredibly tender, practically melting in my mouth, and the flavors were rich and complex. It was truly a memorable meal, a testament to the quality and craftsmanship of Japanese cuisine. Maximilian, a steak aficionado, declared it one of the best steaks he had ever had. The restaurant also offered a selection of Kyoto-sourced ingredients, adding a local touch to the dining experience.


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

To cap off our evening, we decided to experience Kyoto's nightlife at The Common One Bar Kyoto. This modern bar, tucked away in a traditional *Machiya*-style building, offered a unique blend of old and new. The entrance was a bit hidden, giving it a speakeasy vibe, which I found quite charming. The bar featured tatami rooms and a tea room, creating a space where tradition and modernity intertwined. I ordered a brandy-based cocktail, which was expertly crafted with a refreshing blend of fruit flavors. Maximilian opted for a premium matcha cocktail, a nod to Kyoto's rich tea culture. The Common One Bar Kyoto was the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring, a place where we could savor the flavors of Kyoto in a sophisticated and intimate setting.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at The Common One Bar, where tradition meets innovation in every cocktail.

Today was also the day of Ichiko Aoba's 15th Anniversary Concert at the Kyoto Theater. While we didn't attend, I heard it was a lovely event, adding to the cultural vibrancy of the city.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Philosopher's Path, Heian Shrine, and Nanzen-ji Temple. I am particularly excited about the Philosopher's Path, as I have heard it is a beautiful walk that offers a glimpse into Kyoto's serene natural beauty.

Reflecting on the day, I am struck by the seamless blend of history, culture, and culinary delights that Kyoto offers. It's a city that truly caters to all the senses, a place where you can immerse yourself in the past while savoring the present. I am grateful for the opportunity to experience this incredible city with Maximilian, sharing our passion for cultural exploration and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Before I forget, I saw that Nijo Castle will have a Cherry Blossom Festival starting in March. How wonderful! I am also excited to see the Serpentine Delights: Celebrating the Year of the Snake exhibit at the Kyoto National Museum which will be running until February.

Now, off to dream of temples and teppanyaki!