Winter Wanderings in Kyoto: A Cultural Exploration with My Husband

Kyoto's Spiritual and Gastronomic Heart

Today was a beautiful blend of the spiritual and the gastronomic, a true immersion into the heart of Kyoto. Maximilian and I set out to explore some of the city's most revered temples, each a testament to Japan's rich history and serene beauty. And of course, no day is complete without indulging in the local cuisine, which Kyoto certainly does not lack!

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Kyoto cuisine Teramachi Yoshikura. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and an array of small, flavorful dishes. Maximilian, ever the adventurous one, chose the Obanzai All-You-Can-Eat option, relishing the variety of local vegetables and unique flavors. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration. I really appreciated their focus on seasonal ingredients. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and friendly service made it a memorable experience and fueled us up for the day ahead.


Discover authentic Kyoto cuisine at Teramachi Yoshikura – where traditional flavors meet modern creativity in an unforgettable dining experience.

First on our temple itinerary was Tōfuku-ji Temple. Even in January, the temple exuded a sense of tranquility. Though I imagine it is more beautiful in autumn, as I’ve read that it is famous for its autumn colors. Founded in 1236 by the Fujiwara clan, the temple is a beautiful example of Zen architecture. We wandered through the serene gardens, the crisp winter air adding a touch of magic to the landscape. The iconic Tsutenkyo Bridge offered a stunning view of the temple grounds, even without the vibrant hues of autumn. The bare trees and snow-dusted rocks created a stark, yet beautiful, contrast. I was particularly struck by the Sanmon Gate, the oldest Zen gate of its kind, a testament to the temple's enduring legacy. It was so peaceful and calming, a perfect way to start our day of sightseeing.


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

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its temples and gardens, but in the harmony between its history and its present, its spirituality and its cuisine.

Next, we ventured to Sanjūsangendō Temple, a truly awe-inspiring sight. The temple is renowned for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. As we stepped inside the long, wooden hall, we were greeted by a sea of golden statues, each with its own unique expression and posture. The sheer scale of the display was overwhelming, a testament to the devotion and artistry of the craftsmen who created these masterpieces. Maximilian was fascinated by the history of the temple, originally built in 1164 and rebuilt in 1266 after a fire. I was simply mesmerized by the serene beauty of the statues, each one radiating a sense of peace and compassion.


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

Our final temple visit of the day was to Chionin Temple, the headquarters of the Jōdo-shū (Pure Land Sect) founded by Hōnen. The temple's vast grounds were impressive, even in the winter chill. The colossal Sanmon Gate, the largest surviving structure of its kind in Japan, was a sight to behold. We explored the main hall, Mieido, and learned about the temple's rich history and its significance in Japanese Buddhism. The temple bell, the largest in Japan, was particularly impressive. I could only imagine the sound it must make when rung, a deep, resonant tone that echoes through the mountains. The architecture was quite interesting, and I enjoyed learning about the history.


Explore the serene beauty of Chionin Temple, a historic Buddhist site in Kyoto, offering spiritual insight and breathtaking architecture.

After a day of temple hopping, our stomachs were rumbling, and it was time to indulge in some more of Kyoto's culinary delights. For lunch, we headed to Premium Pound Gion, a teppanyaki restaurant known for its exquisite Kobe beef. We secured seats at the counter, where we could watch the chef expertly prepare our meal. The aroma of sizzling beef filled the air as the chef skillfully sliced and grilled the meat to perfection. Each bite was a melt-in-your-mouth experience, the rich, buttery flavor of the Kobe beef a true indulgence. Maximilian, a self-proclaimed meat connoisseur, declared it the best beef he had ever tasted. The chef was also quite entertaining, engaging us in conversation and sharing his knowledge of Japanese cuisine. I am so glad we decided to try this restaurant!


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

As evening approached, we made our way to Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki & Teppan-yaki Kamehameha for dinner. This cozy restaurant offered a unique twist on the traditional okonomiyaki, layering the ingredients to create a savory pancake that was both delicious and filling. We ordered a set meal, which included a variety of starters and, of course, the signature okonomiyaki. The flavors were bold and satisfying, a perfect way to end a day of culinary exploration. Maximilian particularly enjoyed the friendly atmosphere of the restaurant, chatting with the staff and fellow diners. It felt like we were part of a local community, sharing a delicious meal and good company.


Discover authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Kamehameha, Kyoto's premier destination for delicious Japanese cuisine.

To cap off our evening, we decided to experience Kyoto's nightlife at Concrete Bar. Tucked away in a small corridor, this hidden gem offered a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The bartender was a master mixologist, crafting unique and flavorful cocktails tailored to our preferences. I opted for a sake-based cocktail, while Maximilian chose a classic whiskey sour. We sipped our drinks, listening to the mellow music and reflecting on our day of exploration. It was the perfect way to unwind and soak in the ambiance of Kyoto.


Discover the dynamic nightlife of Kyoto at Concrete Bar, where cocktails flow and friendships blossom in a vibrant atmosphere.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we shared today. Kyoto has a way of captivating the soul, of transporting you to another time and place. The temples, with their serene beauty and rich history, offer a glimpse into Japan's spiritual heart. The cuisine, with its bold flavors and meticulous preparation, tantalizes the taste buds and nourishes the body. And the people, with their warmth and hospitality, make you feel like you belong. It is a feeling I will not soon forget. I'm starting to feel more connected to my heritage too, as I learn more about Japanese culture. I think I will try to incorporate some of what I've learned here into my software development work.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Maruyama Park, Kodai-ji Temple, and Yasaka Kōshin-dō Temple. I am particularly excited to visit Maruyama Park, as I’ve read that it is a beautiful spot for cherry blossoms in the spring, though I expect it will still have its own winter charm. We also plan to visit the Kyoto Station ASTY Kyoto Kyoani Goods Store, as Maximilian is a big fan of anime. I wonder what culinary delights we’ll discover tomorrow!

“Travel is not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new cultures and connecting with new people.”

Good night from Kyoto!