Discovering Kyoto's Matcha Delights

A Sweet Escape: Discovering Kyoto's Matcha Delights

Kyoto, the heart of Japan's matcha culture, invites you to indulge in a delightful journey through its exquisite matcha desserts. Renowned for its high-quality Uji matcha, this city offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation that will tantalize your taste buds and soothe your soul.

The Allure of Matcha Desserts

Imagine sinking your spoon into a beautifully layered matcha parfait, where each bite reveals a symphony of flavors and textures. The rich, earthy notes of matcha harmonize perfectly with sweet red beans, creamy ice cream, and delicate jelly, creating a dessert experience that is both refreshing and indulgent. Matcha is not just a treat; it’s a celebration of Japanese heritage, steeped in centuries of tradition.

Must-Visit Matcha Spots

1. Nakamura Tokichi Honten
   Founded in 1854, this historic tea shop is a must-visit for any matcha lover. Their signature matcha jelly, paired with high-quality matcha ice cream and chewy rice dumplings, offers an unforgettable taste of Kyoto’s matcha legacy. Each dessert is crafted with care, ensuring that you experience the true essence of Uji matcha.
2. Itoh Kyuemon
   Established in 1832, this Uji tea specialty shop is famous for its matcha sweets. Here, you can savor a variety of treats, from matcha soft serve to traditional wagashi. The attached teahouse provides a serene setting to enjoy these delights, making it a perfect stop for a relaxing afternoon.
3. Gion Tsujiri
   Located in the historic Gion district, this shop serves some of the finest matcha desserts in Kyoto. Their rich matcha pudding and luxurious matcha parfaits are crafted using only the highest quality Uji matcha, ensuring a taste that is both authentic and exquisite.

A Culinary Adventure

As you explore Kyoto, don’t miss the chance to try unique matcha creations like matcha pancakes, matcha tiramisu, and even matcha-infused savory dishes. Each bite tells a story of the meticulous craftsmanship and cultural significance behind matcha, making your culinary adventure all the more enriching.

Kyoto’s matcha desserts are more than just sweets; they are a gateway to understanding the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re a matcha aficionado or a curious newcomer, these delightful treats promise to leave a lasting impression. So, take a moment to pause, savor the flavors, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Kyoto—one matcha dessert at a time.

Historic Shinto Shrines of Kyoto: Kamigamo and Shimogamo

Kamigamo Shrine and Shimogamo Shrine: History and Highlights

Kamigamo Shrine and Shimogamo Shrine are highly historic Shinto shrines located in Kyoto City, both registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Originally, these shrines were part of a single entity known as the "Kamo Shrine," but they were later divided into the Upper Shrine (Kamigamo) and Lower Shrine (Shimogamo).

Origins and Stories of Kamigamo Shrine

The official name of Kamigamo Shrine is Kamo Wakeikazuchi Shrine, and its enshrined deity is Kamo Wakeikazuchi no Ōkami. It is believed to have been founded during the reign of Emperor Tenmu, with records indicating that the foundation of the current shrine buildings was laid in 678. Kamigamo Shrine holds great significance as the place where the Kamo clan worshipped their ancestral deity and has long been revered by the Imperial family. Notably, Emperor Kanmu visited this shrine when he relocated the capital to Heian-kyō (present-day Kyoto).

A beautiful conical mountain called Kōyama is located within the shrine grounds, and it is said that the deity descended upon this mountain. The shrine also features a sacred horse stable, and the sacred horse appears during festivals. Every year on May 5th, the Kamo Kurabeuma (Kamo Horse Races) are held, featuring rituals related to horses.

Origins and Stories of Shimogamo Shrine

The official name of Shimogamo Shrine is Kamo Mioya Shrine, and it enshrines Tamayorihime no Mikoto and Kamo Taketsunumi no Mikoto. Like Kamigamo Shrine, Shimogamo Shrine has been worshipped since ancient times and is especially known as a shrine for matchmaking and romantic blessings. Its founding is said to date back to the era of Emperor Jimmu, and it has long received reverence from the Imperial Court.

Within the shrine grounds lies the sacred forest Tadasu no Mori, considered a holy place. In this forest is the Mitarashi Pond, and the local specialty Mitarashi Dango (sweet rice dumplings) is said to be modeled after the bubbles that rise in the pond.

Local Gourmet Spots

There are several popular gourmet spots near Kamigamo and Shimogamo Shrines that attract visitors:

Malebranche Kyoto Kitayama Main Store: A Western-style confectionery shop known especially for its Mont Blanc. The freshly made Mont Blanc is noted for its smooth texture and refined sweetness.

Shimogamo Saryo: A restaurant offering Kyoto-style Kaiseki cuisine, featuring dishes made with local ingredients. A specialty here is Sarumochi, traditionally eaten during the Aoi Matsuri festival.

Exploring the Historical Depths of Daitoku-ji and the Mystical Wonders of Imamiya Shrine

 Daitoku-ji is the head temple of the Daitoku-ji branch of the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism, located in the Kita Ward of Kyoto City. It was founded in 1315. The temple fell into ruin during the Onin War, which lasted for 11 years during the Muromachi period, but it was restored by Ikkyu Sojun. Since then, many cultural figures and samurai have been involved with the temple. Notably, it is famous for its connection to Sen no Rikyū, who is well-known for the tea ceremony. There is a story that he was ordered to commit seppuku by Toyotomi Hideyoshi due to a wooden statue of him being placed at the temple's sanmon gate. This incident is depicted in the book "Ask Rikyū" by Kenichi Yamamoto, which has also been made into a movie. Unfortunately, he passed away in 2014.

Daitoku-ji has a vast area and is home to more than 20 sub-temples (tatchu). Here are some places that are particularly worth visiting:

Hōjō: Designated as a national treasure, it features a beautiful karesansui (dry landscape) garden.

Tōmon: An important cultural property, it is adorned with luxurious decorations.

Sub-temples: The sub-temples that are always open to the public include Ryūgen-in, Zuifū-in, Kōtō-in, and Daisei-in. At these sub-temples, you can enjoy Zen experiences and tranquil gardens.

Zazen Experience: At places like Ryūsen-an within Daitoku-ji, beginner-friendly zazen (seated meditation) experiences are offered. Reservations are required in advance, but it is a great opportunity to calm your mind.

Nearby, there is Imamiya Shrine, where the aburi mochi shop has been in operation since the Heian period. Aburi mochi is a simple yet delicious snack. The shrine was founded in 994 and was established to quell epidemics, and it has since been worshipped as the "god who drives away illness." It is also known as "Tamano Koshijinja" because of its association with Katsura Shōin, the mother of Tokugawa's fifth shogun, Tsunayoshi, who was a devotee of the shrine. "Tamano koshi" refers to the wealth and social status that women gain by marrying wealthy men. As a result, the shrine has become a particularly popular power spot for those wishing for good relationships and good fortune.

 At Imamiya Shrine, you'll discover the enchanting "omokaruiishi," or "heavy-light stone." To engage with this mystical stone, simply make a wish, then gently tap it three times with your palm before lifting it. After that, stroke it three times and lift it again. If it feels lighter than you expected, legend has it that your wish is destined to come true! This intriguing ritual adds an element of excitement and hope to your visit, making it a must-try experience for anyone seeking a little magic in their life.

Heian shrine and its garden

Heian Shrine: A Historical Overview

Heian Shrine is an important shrine that symbolizes the history and culture of Kyoto, and its beautiful gardens also captivate visitors. Below is an introduction to the history of Heian Shrine and the magnificence of its gardens.

History of Heian Shrine

Heian Shrine was established in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the transfer of the capital to Heian-kyo (Kyoto). This shrine is positioned as a representation of the splendor of the Heian period. The shrine was constructed to replicate the main hall of the Heian Palace, with the Daigoku-den (Great Hall) being a significant part of the former imperial residence. Heian Shrine enshrines Emperor Kammu and Emperor Komei, playing a crucial role in Kyoto's history.

The architectural style of the shrine features vermilion pillars and green tiles, leaving a strong impression on visitors. Heian Shrine is designated as an Important Cultural Property, and its beautiful buildings showcase traditional Japanese architectural techniques.

The Splendor of the Gardens

The gardens of Heian Shrine cover approximately 33,000 square meters and offer beauty throughout the four seasons. The gardens are divided into four parts: the East Garden, Central Garden, West Garden, and South Garden, each representing different seasonal landscapes.

• Spring: Cherry blossoms bloom in full, allowing visitors to enjoy hanami (flower viewing). The garden, particularly known for its cherry trees, is a perfect spot to experience the arrival of spring.
• Summer: Lush greenery and serene ponds provide tranquility to visitors. The gardens feature ponds where koi(carp) and turtles swim, and visitors can feed them.
• Autumn: The leaves change color beautifully, enveloping the gardens in vibrant hues. The sight of maple leaves turning red and yellow is particularly moving for visitors.
• Winter: The gardens, adorned with a blanket of snow, offer a beautiful scene wrapped in silence. Even in the cold of winter, the beauty of the gardens remains unchanged, making it worth a visit.

Heian Shrine and its gardens are a place where historical background and natural beauty merge, providing deep emotional experiences for visitors. If you visit Kyoto, be sure to stop by and immerse yourself in its charm.

Useful Japanese phrases in Kyoto

Kyoto is home to many temples and shrines, and interestingly, the Japanese pronunciation of "temple" is quite similar to that of "teller." There is a term known as "fortune teller," which adds to the intrigue of this phonetic resemblance. In Japanese, temples are often referred to with the honorific prefix "o," making the pronunciation sound like "Oh, teller." Additionally, the closest pronunciation of "shrine" resembles "ginger." One might wonder, does God have a fondness for ginger?

Waking up early in the morning to visit temples and shrines is a refreshing experience. If you happen to meet someone there, it's customary to greet them in Japanese. While saying "Good morning" is perfectly acceptable, I encourage you to try the Japanese phrase. In Japanese, we say "Ohayo Gozaimasu," which can be a bit challenging to pronounce. A simpler way to say it is "Ohio goes eye mars," which is quite close. You can also keep it short by simply saying "Ohio." Most Japanese people will respond with a smile.

If you're looking to greet someone in the afternoon, you would say "Konnichiwa." If you prefer to use English sounds, you might pronounce it as "Corn niche word," but there's no need to pronounce the "d" at the end.

When it's time to part ways, you can say "Sayonara," which can be playfully pronounced as "Sir your Nara." Nara is a prefecture located south of Kyoto. I'm sure that every Japanese person will understand you, even if you say "Sir your Norah," reminiscent of the singer Norah Jones.

Jumping off the stage of Kiyomizu temple???

Kiyomizu-dera, located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto, is a famous Buddhist temple in Japan that was founded in 794. Officially known as Kiyomizu Kannon-ji, it enshrines the Kannon Bodhisattva as its main deity. Due to its beautiful scenery and historical significance, Kiyomizu-dera has also been registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of the most famous features of Kiyomizu-dera is its wooden stage, which juts out from the main hall and offers a panoramic view of Kyoto from a height of about 13 meters. The view from this stage allows visitors to enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons, and it attracts many tourists, especially during the cherry blossom season in spring and the pitch-dark foliage. Below the stage flows a waterfall that produces a sound known as “Kiyomizu,” and this water is said to promote good health, making it popular among visitors. “Kiyomizu” means clean water.

The expression "to jump off the stage of Kiyomizu" pitch-dark taking risks or making bold decisions. The origin of this phrase is based on a legend in which a person successfully jumped from the stage despite the inherent danger. During the Edo period, it became a trend for people to actually jump from the stage, and those who survived were considered "lucky," earning admiration for their courage. Thus, Kiyomizu-dera is not just a tourist destination but also a symbol of bravery and decision-making.

Additionally, Kiyomizu-dera is known for its architectural style and cultural significance. In particular, the structure of the stage showcases the high level of wooden construction techniques, and it has undergone numerous restorations over the centuries. Visitors can enjoy not only the historical background and beautiful scenery but also seek inner peace through their visit.

Another recommended experience within the temple grounds is the "Tainai Meguri", or "Inner Sanctum Tour." As visitors progress through the pitch-dark passageways, they encounter various Buddhist statues and religious symbols. The narrow and dark corridors can evoke a sense of unease, but this also provides an opportunity for introspection. At the end of the Tainai Meguri, visitors reach a special place where they can offer prayers. This moment becomes an important time for achieving inner peace, leaving many people deeply moved.

The magnificent building that you must not miss: Kinkaku-ji.

Kinkaku-ji; ji means temple (=Rokuon-ji) is a representative tourist attraction located in Kyoto City, captivating many foreign tourists with its beauty and historical background. Kinkaku-ji was constructed in 1397 by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, a shogun of the Muromachi period, serving as his retirement villa. While its official name is Rokuon-ji, the golden pavilion (commonly known as Kinkaku; Kin means Gold.) is particularly famous, and its luxurious appearance overwhelms visitors.

Features of Kinkaku-ji
Kinkaku-ji is a three-story building, with each level showcasing a different architectural style. The first floor is built in the shinden-zukuri style, the second floor in the buke-zukuri style, and the third floor in the Chinese Zen style, with gold leaf applied especially on the second and third floors. A phoenix shines atop the roof, symbolizing the paradise of the Pure Land. This unique design serves as a profound representation of Japanese culture for foreign visitors.

Beauty of the Gardens and Nature
The charm of Kinkaku-ji extends beyond the building itself to its surrounding gardens. The gardens feature ponds and pine trees, offering seasonal landscapes to enjoy. The autumn foliage and winter snow, in particular, create a breathtaking beauty when combined with the golden pavilion.

Cultural Influence
Kinkaku-ji appears frequently in Japanese literature and anime. Notably, Yukio Mishima's novel "Kinkaku-ji" tells the story of a monk obsessed with the beauty of the pavilion, receiving high acclaim both domestically and internationally. Additionally, its presence in the anime "Ikkyu-san" has made it widely known, especially among people from overseas, including China.

Near Kinkaku-ji, there are many restaurants and cafes, making it an excellent place for tourists to enjoy meals. Here are some recommended restaurants:

1.Chabo Kinkaku-An
Located just a 2-minute walk from Kinkaku-ji, this restaurant focuses on Japanese tea. It offers dishes made with the finest gyokuro (high-grade green tea). Reservations are required, allowing guests to enjoy a special time in a traditional Kyoto townhouse atmosphere.

2.Ramen KAZU Kinkaku-ji Store
This ramen shop, within walking distance from Kinkaku-ji, is popular among locals. It’s perfect for enjoying delicious ramen conveniently during sightseeing.

3.Sumiyaki Unagi Doikatsuman Kinkaku-ji Store
A specialty eel restaurant located just a 5-minute walk from Kinkaku-ji. It serves fresh eel grilled over charcoal, bustling with tourists, especially during lunch hours.

4.Kyoto Ki Shin
This restaurant offers French kaiseki cuisine and is slightly farther from Kinkaku-ji but is renowned for its creative dishes. It features local ingredients, making it ideal for a special dinner.

5.Kinkaku-ji Itadaki
A Western-style restaurant just a minute's walk from Kinkaku-ji, popular for its menu featuring Kyoto vegetables. It’s recommended as a casual stop during sightseeing.

These restaurants are must-visit spots when you come to Kinkaku-ji. Enjoying a delicious meal after sightseeing will allow you to further savor the charm of Kyoto.