TIKIKITI – Spatial Journeys in Japan

I headed to Yuuki’s Gion branch for dinner and was very glad I had made a reservation. The place was packed, the sake selection was fun to explore, and nearly every dish made me want to order another round.

On my second trip to Kyoto this year, I stayed at The Westin Miyako Kyoto again, taking advantage of the hotel’s free shuttle bus, a Platinum upgrade to a Junior Suite, and another chance to enjoy its gardens, baths, and breakfast buffet.

As my Kyoto trip was winding down, I grabbed some bread from Shizuya before boarding the Shinkansen back to Tokyo. I did not have time for a proper lunch, so this became my train meal.

I visited the renewed Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, where a solemn 1933 Imperial Crown Style building now sits above a transparent modern addition. Even before the exhibitions, the architecture alone made the visit worthwhile.

After checking out of The Westin Miyako Kyoto, I walked to Nanzen-ji via the twisted brick tunnel near Keage Incline, explored its vast grounds, visited the still-functioning Suirokaku aqueduct, admired the Hojo Garden, and climbed the Sanmon gate for the view.

I spent the night at The Westin Miyako Kyoto, a long-established hotel that first opened in 1900. Fresh from its 2021 renovation, it felt thoroughly modern, while still offering glimpses of the architectural legacy that drew me there in the first place.

Getting into Katsura Imperial Villa took persistence long before I arrived in Kyoto. After finally winning a reservation, I visited this remarkable estate and found that its guided tour revealed layer after layer of hospitality, wit, and carefully staged scenery.

I visited the Garden of Fine Arts Kyoto, an outdoor museum designed by Tadao Ando, where ceramic reproductions of famous paintings are woven into a striking concrete landscape of water, stairs, and underground passages.

After visiting the Garden of Fine Arts Kyoto, I headed back toward Karasuma for lunch and stopped at INDIA GATE, a biryani spot tucked down a side street. I ordered a half-and-half plate with firefly squid biryani and sea bream broth biryani, plus spiced egg and nagaimo achar.

I took the subway from my hotel to Kyoto Imperial Palace, a former imperial residence with free admission and a free audio guide app. Walking the vast grounds at a relaxed pace, I enjoyed seeing buildings from different periods and imagining the world that once surrounded the palace.

Instead of using the hotel’s popular breakfast, I walked to nearby Takagi Coffee for their signature Rich Morning set before heading out sightseeing.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Getting into Katsura Imperial Villa took persistence long before I arrived in Kyoto. After finally winning a reservation, I visited this remarkable estate and found that its guided tour revealed layer after layer of hospitality, wit, and carefully staged scenery.

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.

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.

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 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 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.