Winter Wanderings in Kyoto: A Cultural Exploration with My Husband

Kyoto's Charms Unveiled

Today was a delightful blend of tranquility and vibrant discovery. Maximilian and I immersed ourselves in the serene beauty of Kyoto, exploring hidden corners and savoring the local flavors. It’s days like these that remind me why we love to travel – the unexpected finds and the peaceful moments that linger in your memory long after you’ve left.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Antonio. The Spanish flavors were a delightful change of pace from our usual Japanese fare, and it was a cozy spot to start the day. It reminded me of the small, family-run restaurants back in Arecibo, filled with warmth and delicious aromas.


Discover authentic Spanish flavors at Antonio in Kyoto – where culinary artistry meets vibrant ambiance.

With our appetites satisfied, we set out to explore Maruyama Park. Even in January, the park held a quiet beauty. The bare trees had a stark elegance, and the snow-dusted landscape added a touch of magic. I could only imagine how stunning it must be during cherry blossom season. We strolled hand in hand, enjoying the crisp air and the peaceful atmosphere.


Experience the natural beauty of Maruyama Park in Kyoto, a serene oasis filled with cherry blossoms and cultural heritage.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its famous landmarks, but in the quiet corners where you can find a sense of peace and wonder.

Next on our itinerary was Kodai-ji Temple. The temple was founded in 1606 by Nene, the widow of Hideyoshi Toyotomi and there was a palpable sense of history as we walked through the grounds, imagining the stories of those who had walked here before us. I found myself reflecting on the parallels between Nene's devotion to Hideyoshi and my own relationship with Maximilian. The intricate architecture and serene gardens were a feast for the eyes, offering a glimpse into Kyoto's rich cultural heritage. Although Kodai-ji is well known for its spring and autumn illuminations, the winter landscape had a stark beauty of its own. Maximilian, ever the history enthusiast, was captivated by the temple's history and shared fascinating insights about its significance during the Edo period.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Kodaiji Temple, a historical Buddhist temple in Kyoto, showcasing stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.

Our exploration continued to Yasaka Kōshin-dō Temple, a place bursting with color and charm. This small temple is dedicated to Kōshin-san, a guardian warrior, and is known for its vibrant kukurizaru, colorful balls representing good faith monkeys. The temple integrates elements from Buddhism, Taoism, and Shintoism, which I found incredibly interesting, given my interest in cultural exchange. Each kukurizaru represents a wish and a desire that one must sacrifice to have that wish granted. The vibrant colors and playful atmosphere of the temple were a delightful contrast to the more somber temples we had visited earlier. I couldn't resist buying a kukurizaru to hang at home as a reminder of our time in Kyoto.


Explore the tranquil Yasaka Kōshin-dō Temple in Kyoto, a stunning Buddhist sanctuary filled with rich traditions and serene beauty.

After a morning of cultural immersion, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Ryu no Hige, a restaurant that blends traditional Kyoto cuisine with French influences. The restaurant is known for its seasonal dishes and creative presentation. The meal was a culinary adventure, each course a work of art. I particularly enjoyed the delicate flavors of the Kyoto vegetables, a testament to the region's rich agricultural heritage. Maximilian, with his sophisticated palate, appreciated the subtle nuances of the French techniques used to enhance the local ingredients.


Discover the art of fusion dining at Ryu no Hige in Kyoto - where French elegance meets Japanese creativity.

In the afternoon, we decided to indulge in a bit of shopping. We made our way to Kyoto Station ASTY Kyoto Kyoani Goods Store, a must-visit for any anime enthusiast. Though I'm not a huge anime fan myself, I knew it would be something Maximilian would enjoy, and I was curious to see what it was all about. The store was filled with merchandise from Kyoto Animation's various series. Maximilian was in his element, browsing through the displays and geeking out over his favorite characters from series like Sound! Euphonium. He ended up buying a few keychains and a t-shirt, his face beaming with excitement.


Explore Kyoto Station ASTY Kyoto Kyoani Goods Store for exclusive anime merchandise and a taste of Japan's vibrant pop culture.

As evening approached, we made our way to Chihana for dinner. This restaurant is a culinary gem, known for its exquisite kaiseki cuisine and impeccable service. From what I read, Chihana was awarded three stars by a world-renowned gourmet guide for nine consecutive years since 2010. The dishes were a symphony of flavors and textures, each one a testament to the chef's skill and artistry. The service was exceptional, making us feel like honored guests. Maximilian and I savored every bite, appreciating the artistry and dedication that went into creating such a memorable dining experience.


Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Chihana in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district - where tradition meets culinary artistry.

As we walked back to the Cross Hotel Kyoto, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the day's experiences. Kyoto had once again worked its magic, enchanting us with its beauty, history, and culinary delights. I’m already looking forward to what tomorrow brings. We plan to visit Higashiyama Jisho-ji (Ginkaku-ji), Ginkaku-ji, and Shōsei-en Garden. And perhaps we will close the day with a drink at the Kyoto Star Bar.


Discover the charm of Kyoto from Cross Hotel Kyoto, where comfort meets convenience just steps from the city's historic treasures.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore more of Kyoto's cultural treasures, including Higashiyama Jisho-ji and Ginkaku-ji. I’m also excited to visit Shōsei-en Garden, known for its serene beauty. And who knows, maybe we'll even find a cozy little bar to wind down the day.

Good night from Kyoto!