TIKIKITI – Spatial Journeys in Japan

A personal visit to a hilltop villa-turned-museum where a restored wooden villa, Tadao Ando’s understated addition, Monet’s Water Lilies, and a terrace with lovely views come together.

On the final day of my Kyoto trip I walked straight from HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO to Nijo Castle, revisiting memories from a school trip and exploring the Ninomaru Palace and gardens—though parts were closed for restoration and events.

A swift visit to Kennin-ji after Nijo Castle: I saw a digital reproduction of the famous Wind-and-Thunder folding screen, an imposing twin-dragon ceiling painted in 2002, and expansive dry gardens with tatami seating.

Not hungry after a large breakfast, I searched for something light and found Nijo-goya. The owner renovated the cozy cabin themselves; I enjoyed a hot sandwich and iced coffee at a standing counter.

I revisited Train Train for dinner—an understated exterior that opens into a lively, welcoming interior. The food and extensive wine list have made it a favorite, and I enjoyed many dishes and the chance to choose a bottle from two staff-selected options.

Kinobi House is the flagship store of Kyoto craft gin maker 季の美. Housed in a renovated old building, it offers a stylish setting, a wide selection of bottles, and a three-sample tasting for 1500 yen.

My recent stay at The Westin Miyako Kyoto had everything I enjoy about Kyoto hotels: a renovated interior, a generous communal bath, and a room with a dream view overlooking Kasui-en. I also took time to enjoy the lounge, a comforting breakfast buffet, and Togo Murano’s elegant architectural details throughout the building.

I returned to the hotel for a short break, then visited Heian Shrine's night illumination event, “NAKED Yorumoode 2022”. There was a long queue, colorful light displays, rentable glowing lanterns, and interactive name projections—though the crowds made it hard to get photogenic shots.

I sheltered from a sudden rain, explored the vast Arashiyama bamboo path and Tenryu-ji garden, then took a short but charming trolley ride back.

After a big breakfast I missed lunch, walked from Saga-Arashiyama Station, and found a late but very satisfying chicken biryani at 明星咖喱.

I visited the Kyoto Prefectural Botanical Garden in winter and escaped the cold inside its impressive greenhouse: a futuristic, pond‑surrounded structure with enormous plants, a poinsettia fair, and surprisingly low admission.

After shopping at Kyoto Station, I headed to the well-known Cantonese restaurant Hōsen. I got in with the first seating without a reservation, enjoyed gentle Kyoto-style Chinese flavors, and especially liked the lo mein (shrimp and chicken soba).

I took the Randen to Arashiyama, wandered through the busy station and Kimono Forest, crossed Togetsukyo Bridge, and enjoyed a matcha-filled ice eclair while taking in the tourist atmosphere.

A cozy wine-focused izakaya near Kawaramachi where unexpected plates and hand-picked wines made for a memorable winter evening.

After picking up my luggage at Kyoto Station I swung by Kawaramachi to visit the House of KI NO BI shop, bought a limited bottle, and had a gin and soda at the bar inside.

I finished my short Kyoto trip with dinner at IL LAGO, a cozy Italian spot with cicchetti, a hand-written menu board, and a memorable 100% duck hamburger.

On my way back to Kyoto Station I noticed a wooden building with brewing tanks visible through the glass and was drawn into Yamorido. I sat at the counter, tried their flagship beer "Chakabuki" brewed with karigane tea and yuzu, had a small plate of pickles, and then walked on toward the station.

I moved from the Gekkeikan area to Kizakura’s Kappa Country, where kappa-themed displays and a seven-choice tasting counter highlight both folklore and sake. I tried a direct-shop-only junmai nigori and ended up buying a bottle.

An afternoon wandering Fushimi led me from a lively shopping street and an impressive temple gate to the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, where I explored sake history, saw rare artifacts, and tasted two sakes.

I spent a night at Ace Hotel Kyoto, housed in the Shin Pukan complex above Karasuma Oike Station. The mix of a preserved 1931 telephone office and a new building, distinctive design details and a relaxed, casually cosmopolitan vibe made it a memorable stay.

Visitors to the Kyoto National Museum will find the Heisei Chishinkan Wing, designed by Yoshio Taniguchi, a masterpiece of modernist architecture with its captivating reflecting pools and harmonious blend of traditional Japanese elements.

Step back in time at the Former Kyoto Prefectural Office Building, a stunning Renaissance structure completed in 1904. Wander through its expansive corridors adorned with red carpets, and marvel at the elegant staircase hall and pale blue walls. This iconic site, still used as an administrative office, offers a glimpse into Kyoto's rich history.

At INDIA GATE in Kyoto, enjoy the best of both worlds with their unique biryanis. From firefly squid to sea bream soup biryanis, each dish is a flavorful journey that highlights Kyoto's distinctive twist on Indian cuisine.

Experience the exquisite flavors of Kyoto's Kappo Yamashita, where every dish showcases the chef's expertise and seasonal ingredients. Indulge in a refined dining experience tailored to your pace and preferences.

Kyoto visit includes Garden of Fine Art Kyoto by Tadao Ando, featuring ceramic paintings like Monet’s Water Lilies and Michelangelo’s “The Last Judgment”. Lunch at INDIA GATE offers Kyoto-style biryani. Luggage transfer via Satellite Concierge at Kyoto Station to The Westin Miyako Hotel Kyoto concludes the day.

A long-awaited trip to Kyoto begins with an overnight stay at Sequence Kyoto Gojo, featuring self-check-in and facial recognition. Simple, chic rooms and a communal bath offer relaxation. After breakfast at Takagi Coffee Shop, exploring Kyoto Imperial Palace reveals its historical significance.

Unveil the magic of Katsura Rikyu. A blend of tradition and tranquility, just a bus ride from Kyoto's vibrant heart.

Experience history and luxury at The Westin Miyako Kyoto, a gem since 1900 now part of the Kintetsu Group.

Experience the exquisite flavors of Kyoto's Kappo Yamashita, where every dish showcases the chef's expertise and seasonal ingredients. Indulge in a refined dining experience tailored to your pace and preferences.

Step back in time at the Former Kyoto Prefectural Office Building, a stunning Renaissance structure completed in 1904. Wander through its expansive corridors adorned with red carpets, and marvel at the elegant staircase hall and pale blue walls. This iconic site, still used as an administrative office, offers a glimpse into Kyoto's rich history.

Visitors to the Kyoto National Museum will find the Heisei Chishinkan Wing, designed by Yoshio Taniguchi, a masterpiece of modernist architecture with its captivating reflecting pools and harmonious blend of traditional Japanese elements.

At INDIA GATE in Kyoto, enjoy the best of both worlds with their unique biryanis. From firefly squid to sea bream soup biryanis, each dish is a flavorful journey that highlights Kyoto's distinctive twist on Indian cuisine.

Start your day with a memorable breakfast at Takagi Coffee Shop near Kyoto Gojo! Indulge in the classic

I began my Kyoto trip with an overnight stay at sequence KYOTO GOJO, a hotel one subway stop from Kyoto Station and just a short walk from Gojo Station. With self check-in, facial recognition access, simple modern rooms, and a large public bath, it made for a smooth and comfortable start.

Kick off your Kyoto journey with a heavenly cream bun from SIZUYA Station - a must-try snack for travelers!

Kyoto's KYOCERA Museum of Art, Japan's second oldest public art museum, offers a captivating blend of history and modern design. Renovation in 2020 enhanced its Imperial Crown Style architecture with a contemporary glass ribbon section, creating a unique experience.

I spent a night at Ace Hotel Kyoto, housed in the Shin Pukan complex above Karasuma Oike Station. The mix of a preserved 1931 telephone office and a new building, distinctive design details and a relaxed, casually cosmopolitan vibe made it a memorable stay.

I moved from the Gekkeikan area to Kizakura’s Kappa Country, where kappa-themed displays and a seven-choice tasting counter highlight both folklore and sake. I tried a direct-shop-only junmai nigori and ended up buying a bottle.

Experience the serene beauty of Nanzen-ji Temple in Kyoto, where the historic Suirokaku Aqueduct and tranquil Hojo Garden await. Capture the essence of Kyoto's spiritual charm and breathtaking vistas.

A swift visit to Kennin-ji after Nijo Castle: I saw a digital reproduction of the famous Wind-and-Thunder folding screen, an imposing twin-dragon ceiling painted in 2002, and expansive dry gardens with tatami seating.

A personal visit to a hilltop villa-turned-museum where a restored wooden villa, Tadao Ando’s understated addition, Monet’s Water Lilies, and a terrace with lovely views come together.

On my way back to Kyoto Station I noticed a wooden building with brewing tanks visible through the glass and was drawn into Yamorido. I sat at the counter, tried their flagship beer "Chakabuki" brewed with karigane tea and yuzu, had a small plate of pickles, and then walked on toward the station.

Experience the grandeur of Kyoto Imperial Palace, where historical architecture and serene gardens await your discovery.

My recent stay at The Westin Miyako Kyoto had everything I enjoy about Kyoto hotels: a renovated interior, a generous communal bath, and a room with a dream view overlooking Kasui-en. I also took time to enjoy the lounge, a comforting breakfast buffet, and Togo Murano’s elegant architectural details throughout the building.

I revisited Train Train for dinner—an understated exterior that opens into a lively, welcoming interior. The food and extensive wine list have made it a favorite, and I enjoyed many dishes and the chance to choose a bottle from two staff-selected options.

On the final day of my Kyoto trip I walked straight from HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO to Nijo Castle, revisiting memories from a school trip and exploring the Ninomaru Palace and gardens—though parts were closed for restoration and events.

An afternoon wandering Fushimi led me from a lively shopping street and an impressive temple gate to the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, where I explored sake history, saw rare artifacts, and tasted two sakes.

I finished my short Kyoto trip with dinner at IL LAGO, a cozy Italian spot with cicchetti, a hand-written menu board, and a memorable 100% duck hamburger.