Winter Wanderings in Kyoto: A Cultural Exploration with My Husband

Whispers in the Bamboo

Today was a day of enchantment, a journey into the heart of Arashiyama's natural beauty and playful spirit. From the serene whispers of the bamboo forest to the mischievous antics of snow monkeys, every moment felt like stepping into a living postcard. Maximilian and I embraced the crisp winter air, ready to explore the wonders that awaited us.

Our day began with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Gion Nanba. The restaurant was tucked away in a narrow alley, a hidden gem that promised an authentic culinary experience. The multi-course meal was a delicate dance of flavors and textures, a beautiful introduction to Kyoto's kaiseki cuisine. The presentation was exquisite, each dish a miniature work of art. It was a delightful start to our day, setting the tone for the adventures ahead.


Discover authentic kaiseki cuisine at Gion Nanba, where tradition meets taste in Kyoto's historic Gion district.

After breakfast, we made our way to Arashiyama, taking in the scenic views along the way. The train journey itself was a treat, offering glimpses of the Japanese countryside. As we arrived, the crisp winter air invigorated us, and we were eager to dive into the day's itinerary.

Our first stop was the famed Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Stepping into the grove felt like entering another world. Towering bamboo stalks swayed gently in the breeze, creating a mesmerizing symphony of whispers. The sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, casting dappled shadows on the path below. Despite the winter chill, there was a sense of warmth and tranquility that enveloped us. Maximilian and I walked hand in hand, marveling at the natural beauty that surrounded us. The forest was less crowded than I had imagined, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in its serene atmosphere. The contrast of the green bamboo against the occasional patches of snow was simply breathtaking. It felt like a scene from a movie, a dream come to life.


Discover the serene beauty of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, a tranquil escape filled with towering bamboo groves and enchanting pathways.

In the heart of Arashiyama, nature's whispers blend with playful spirits, creating an unforgettable symphony of serenity and joy.

Next on our list was Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site adjacent to the bamboo forest. The temple's gardens were particularly stunning in winter, with a light dusting of snow accentuating the stark simplicity of the rock gardens. We wandered through the meticulously raked gravel, admiring the serene landscape. The Sogen Pond Garden, designed by Musō Soseki, was a highlight, with its snow-covered rocks and reflections of the Arashiyama mountains creating a picture-perfect view. Inside the Dharma Hall, we were awestruck by the large painting of a cloud dragon on the ceiling. The dragon's eyes seemed to follow us, no matter where we stood, a symbol of its all-seeing protection. It was a truly captivating experience, a blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance.


Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. A cultural gem for every traveler.

After the tranquility of the temple, we were ready for a bit of playful adventure at Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama. The park is located on a mountain, requiring a bit of a hike to reach the top. The climb was invigorating, and the views along the way were well worth the effort. As we ascended, we spotted a few monkeys scampering through the trees, their playful antics fueling our excitement. Finally, we reached the summit, where a troop of about 120 Japanese snow monkeys roamed freely. It was an incredible sight to see these creatures in their natural habitat. We purchased some monkey food and entered the feeding hut, where we could safely offer the monkeys peanuts and apples. They eagerly grabbed the treats from our hands, their nimble fingers surprisingly gentle. Maximilian and I laughed as we watched them interact with each other, their mischievous behavior bringing a smile to our faces. The panoramic views of Kyoto from the mountaintop were simply stunning, a reward for our climb. It was a truly unique experience, a chance to connect with nature and witness the playful spirit of these fascinating animals.


Discover the playful world of Japanese macaques at Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, a stunning wildlife experience in the heart of Kyoto.

For lunch, we decided to try Arash's Kitchen, a local spot known for its delicious and authentic Japanese cuisine. I enjoyed a steaming bowl of ramen, while Maximilian opted for a traditional bento box. The food was simple but flavorful, a perfect way to refuel after our morning adventures. The cozy atmosphere of the restaurant made us feel right at home.


Experience authentic Asian cuisine at Arash's Kitchen in Kyoto—a culinary delight for every traveler seeking unique flavors.

As evening approached, we returned to Kyoto city center, ready to experience the city's nightlife. For dinner, we chose Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, a teppanyaki restaurant known for its lively atmosphere and delicious food. However, upon arrival, we learned that the restaurant no longer caters to vegetarians or vegans, which was a bit disappointing. We decided to explore other options in the Gion district, eventually settling on a cozy izakaya where we enjoyed a variety of small dishes and local sake. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and we savored the opportunity to immerse ourselves in Japanese culture.


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

To cap off our evening, we ventured to L'Escamoteur, a magical cocktail bar that had been highly recommended to us. The bar's entrance was unassuming, a hidden door leading to a dimly lit, steampunk-inspired interior. The atmosphere was enchanting, with quirky decorations and a sense of mystery in the air. The bartenders were dressed in flamboyant attire, adding to the bar's whimsical charm. We ordered a couple of their signature cocktails, each a unique concoction presented with theatrical flair. The drinks were expertly crafted, a delightful blend of flavors and aromas. L'Escamoteur felt like stepping into another world, a playground for adults with a sense of wonder. Sipping our cocktails, we reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the unforgettable experiences we had shared. The bar definitely lived up to its reputation as one of Kyoto's top cocktail destinations. Maximilian was particularly impressed by the creativity and skill of the mixologists.


Discover L'Escamoteur, Kyoto's enchanting cocktail bar where artistry meets mixology in a whimsical atmosphere. Unforgettable drinks await!

As we walked back to the Cross Hotel Kyoto, the city lights twinkled around us. The winter air was crisp and refreshing, and we felt a sense of contentment wash over us. Today had been a perfect blend of nature, culture, and playful adventure, a true reflection of Kyoto's charm. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, already anticipating the discoveries that tomorrow would bring. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, and Ninna-ji Temple, immersing ourselves further in Kyoto's rich history and serene beauty. I am especially looking forward to seeing the Golden Pavilion.


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

Before I close this entry, I want to mention something that happened on our way back to the hotel. While we were walking, Maximilian noticed that I was shivering a little, despite my warm coat. Without a word, he took off his own scarf and wrapped it around my neck. It was such a small gesture, but it warmed my heart more than any winter garment could. It's moments like these that make traveling with him so special. His thoughtfulness and care always make me feel loved and cherished, no matter where we are in the world.

Good night from Kyoto!