Japan
has one of the most ethnically uniform population in the world. The leading
religion is Shinto. Japan is an interesting place. With many prefectures in it.
One of the prefecture is Kyoto which is in Kansai region.
Japan's capital for over 1,000 years,
Kyoto remains awash with remnants of its past glory. The city's stunning
collection of UNESCO World Heritage sites alone would be enough to set it
apart, but Kyoto also boasts a still-working geisha district, some of Japan's
most exquisite cuisine, and a whole lot of Zen. Not that it's all temples and
tradition: the city also hosts its share of hip cafes and modern art. Think of it
as the cultural yin to Tokyo's yang, but with a sprinkling of modernity. Here's
some of the interesting places in Kyoto.
- Rokuon-ji, commonly known as Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku)
- Kiyomizu-dera, is an independent Buddhist temple in eastern Kyoto
- Kyoto botanical garden, is a major botanical garden with conservatory located next to Kamo River.
- Fushimi Inari Shrine, This shrine is one of many located throughout Japan that was built to honor Inari, the Shinto god of rice.
- Philosopher's Walk, This scenic path follows cherry-tree lined canal and is named after a Kyoto University philosopher, Kitaro Nishida, who used it for his daily walk
If you want to see cherry blossoms in Kyoto you must go to Arashiyama, Ninnaji Temple, and Daigoji temple.
And don’t forget to visit Kyoto’s restaurant that serves a traditional food. These are Kyoto’s Traditional Food
Shojin Ryori
Whereas kaiseki developed out of the affluence of the aristocrats, shojin ryori developed from the austerity of Buddhist monks. Prohibited from taking the life of other living creatures, Buddhist monks had to make do without meat or fish in their diet. Consisting of strictly vegetarian dishes, shojin ryori can nonetheless be savory and filling. Travelers who spend the night at a temple lodging will be able to enjoy a meal as part of the stay.
A common ingredient in shojin ryori is tofu, which is a local specialty of Kyoto. The preparation of tofu is so common that it can also be referred to as Tofu Ryori ("tofu cuisine"). One popular dish that is widely served at restaurants is Yudofu, soft tofu simmered with vegetables in broth. A meal of Yudofu usually costs 1500 to 2000 yen, but the price can be higher or lower depending on the quality of the restaurant. The Nanzenji and Arashiyama districts are particularly famous for tofu cuisine.
A pot of Yudofu |
Obanzai Ryori
Obanzai Ryori is the traditional home style cooking of Kyoto. It is made up of multiple small dishes that are usually quite simple to prepare. Local produce that is in season is best suited for the dishes. Although the cooking methods are usually not complicated, obanzai dishes can be made very rich by chefs skillfully bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Restaurants that serve obanzai ryori can be found all over Kyoto. Many of them have a relaxed and friendly atmosphere that reflects the home style of cooking. A full meal usually costs 2000 to 3000 yen, but can vary depending on the number and type of dishes ordered.
A meal of Obanzai Ryori |
Kawadoko in Kibune |
Kawayuka/Kawadoko
Kawayuka, or Kawadoko as it is known outside of central Kyoto, is the summer past time of dining outdoors on temporary platforms built over flowing water. Developed as a way to beat the summer heat, kawayuka is a great way to experience one of the traditional Kyoto cuisines listed above while taking in the cooling effects of the flowing water and lively summer atmosphere.
The most famous area to experience kawayuka is along the Kamogawa River in central Kyoto, especially around Pontocho. From May to September, restaurants here construct temporary wooden decks over the canal on the river's west bank. Many places serve kaiseki meals, however other types of cuisine are also available.
Kibune and Takao in the forested mountains just north of central Kyoto, are also popular places to try kawayuka, although here it is called kawadoko. In Kibune especially, the platforms are built just centimeters above the river and provide almost complete relief from the summer heat.
Sources:
- Wikipedia
- Kyoto Food Guide
- Kyoto: 10 things to do