Winter Wanderings in Kyoto: A Cultural Exploration with My Husband

Whispers of Tradition in Kyoto

Today marked the beginning of our Kyoto adventure, and what a start it was! The city unfolded before Maximilian and me like a scroll, each scene more captivating than the last. From the vermilion gates of Fushimi Inari to the bustling stalls of Nishiki Market, Kyoto has already stolen a piece of my heart. It's a city where ancient traditions thrive amidst the modern world, a place where you can feel the pulse of history with every step.

Our day began with an early start, fueled by excitement and a hearty breakfast at Katsukura - Kyoto Porta. I opted for their famous *tonkatsu*, a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet that was simply divine. The miso soup was so flavorful and warming, which was perfect for the chilly morning. Maximilian enjoyed his meal as well, and after that we were ready to start exploring.

Our first stop was the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine. The crisp morning air nipped at our faces as we approached the entrance, but the sight of the thousands of vibrant red *torii* gates snaking up the mountain was enough to take our breath away. As we walked through the seemingly endless tunnel of gates, each donated by individuals and businesses, I felt a sense of awe and reverence. The silence, punctuated only by the occasional rustling of leaves and the soft murmur of other visitors, was incredibly peaceful. I could feel the spiritual energy of the place, a tangible connection to centuries of tradition. We took our time, stopping to admire the intricate carvings on the gates and the small fox statues that guarded the path. Foxes, you see, are considered the messengers of Inari, the Shinto deity of rice, fertility, and prosperity. It was truly a magical experience, one that I will never forget.


Explore the enchanting Fushimi Inari Shrine, home to thousands of vibrant torii gates, where tradition and breathtaking beauty await every visitor.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quietest moments, in the whispers of ancient stones and the rustling of sacred trees.

After immersing ourselves in the spiritual ambiance of Fushimi Inari, we made our way to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, another of Kyoto's most famous landmarks. Perched on a hillside overlooking the city, the temple offered stunning panoramic views. The main hall, with its iconic wooden stage, was truly impressive. I learned that the stage was built without the use of any nails, a testament to the ingenuity and skill of traditional Japanese carpenters. We wandered through the temple complex, admiring the various halls and pagodas, each with its own unique charm. The air was filled with the scent of incense and the sound of chanting, creating a serene and meditative atmosphere.


Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto, where culture and nature harmoniously blend.

One of the highlights of Kiyomizu-dera was the Otowa Waterfall, where three streams of water cascade down the hillside. Visitors can drink from these streams, each said to bestow different benefits: longevity, success in studies, and a happy love life. Of course, Maximilian and I both sampled the water, hoping for a little bit of everything! The temple was quite crowded, but it was still easy to find moments of peace and quiet, to simply soak in the beauty of the surroundings.

From the tranquility of Kiyomizu-dera, we plunged into the vibrant chaos of Nishiki Market, also known as Kyoto's Kitchen. This bustling marketplace is a feast for the senses, a narrow alleyway lined with hundreds of stalls selling everything from fresh seafood and pickles to sweets and street food. The market was packed with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample the culinary delights on offer. I was immediately drawn to the colorful displays of pickled vegetables, a Kyoto specialty. We tried a variety of different pickles, each with its own unique flavor and texture. I also couldn't resist sampling some *takoyaki*, octopus balls, a popular street food in Japan. They were cooked fresh right in front of us, and the hot, savory batter was absolutely delicious. Maximilian, ever the adventurous one, tried some grilled eel and declared it to be surprisingly tasty. Nishiki Market was a true sensory overload, a whirlwind of sights, smells, and tastes that left us feeling energized and excited.


Explore Nishiki Market, Kyoto's vibrant food market, where local delicacies meet rich cultural heritage in a delightful shopping experience.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Kikunoi Roan for dinner, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its modern take on traditional *kaiseki* cuisine. The restaurant was elegant and understated, with a peaceful atmosphere that was a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of the market. We opted for the tasting menu, which featured a series of small, exquisitely prepared dishes that showcased the best of Kyoto's seasonal ingredients. Each dish was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly flavorful. The service was impeccable, and the staff were happy to explain each dish in detail.


Experience the art of kaiseki dining at Kikunoi Roan in Kyoto - where seasonal flavors meet exquisite presentation.

I particularly enjoyed the sashimi, which was incredibly fresh and tender, and the grilled fish, which was perfectly cooked and seasoned. Maximilian raved about the soup, which was rich and complex, with a delicate balance of flavors. The entire meal was a culinary journey, a celebration of Japanese cuisine at its finest. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Kyoto, a truly unforgettable experience.

As I reflect on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and excitement. Kyoto has already exceeded my expectations, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. We're planning to visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple, and perhaps even brave the Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama. I've heard the bamboo forest is magical, especially in the winter light, and I'm eager to experience its serene beauty firsthand. Maximilian is especially excited about the Monkey Park and seeing the snow monkeys. I have to admit I'm a little nervous about the monkeys, but I'm sure it will be an adventure! We'll also be stopping for lunch at Arash's Kitchen and dinner at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, and perhaps a drink at L'Escamoteur.

For now, though, I'm content to savor the memories of today, the vibrant colors, the delicious flavors, and the warm hospitality of the people we've met. Kyoto is a city that nourishes the soul, a place where you can connect with the past while embracing the present. It's a journey that I'm so grateful to be sharing with Maximilian, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow holds.

Tonight, as I lay my head down to rest at the Cross Hotel Kyoto, I can't help but feel a deep sense of contentment. Kyoto, with its blend of ancient traditions and modern allure, has already captured my heart. I know that this trip will be one for the books, a collection of cherished memories that Maximilian and I will treasure for years to come. And I can't wait to share all of our discoveries with you, my dear readers. Stay tuned for more tales from this enchanting city!


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

I almost forgot! On January 5th, there's the Garakuta-ichi,” To-ji Temple Flea Market. And from January 8th to 12th, the Toka Ebisu festival is happening. Maybe we'll check those out if we have time!