Kyoto, with its rich history and cultural heritage, transforms into a magical place as night falls. Walking around the city at night offers a unique and serene experience, contrasting the daytime hustle and bustle. Our evening stroll through Kyoto was filled with charming shops, ancient temples, and a delightful dinner at a small teppanyaki restaurant called Teppan Tavern Tenamonya. Here’s a detailed account of our memorable evening in Kyoto.
Strolling Through the Shopping Streets
As dusk settled, we set out to explore the narrow, lantern-lit streets of Kyoto. The rows of shops, each offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese culture, were a delight to wander through. We found numerous stores selling a variety of teas, from delicate green teas to robust matcha blends. Sampling different teas and learning about their origins and preparation methods was an enriching experience.
Apart from tea, the shops offered an array of unique gifts and souvenirs. From beautiful handmade ceramics and intricate textiles to traditional sweets and local crafts, there was something for everyone. We picked up a few gifts to bring back home, including some beautifully packaged tea and a few small handcrafted items that would remind us of our time in Kyoto.
Discovering a Temple in the Heart of the City
In the midst of our exploration, we stumbled upon one of Kyoto’s many temples nestled within the city. The temple grounds, illuminated by soft lighting, provided a peaceful respite from the lively shopping streets. The tranquility of the temple at night, with the gentle sound of rustling leaves and the distant hum of the city, was a deeply spiritual experience.
We took a moment to appreciate the serene beauty of the temple, observing the intricate architectural details and the serene statues that adorned the grounds. It was a perfect blend of history and spirituality, offering a glimpse into the soul of Kyoto.
Dinner at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya
After our temple visit, we headed to Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, a small teppanyaki restaurant we had heard rave reviews about. The restaurant, tucked away in a quiet street, had a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The owners were incredibly friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home as soon as we walked in.
Teppan Tavern Tenamonya specializes in teppanyaki, a style of Japanese cuisine where food is cooked on an iron griddle. The open kitchen allowed us to watch the chef skillfully prepare our meal, creating a delightful dining experience. The menu offered a variety of dishes, from succulent meats to fresh vegetables, all cooked to perfection right in front of us.
Given the small size of the restaurant, reservations are a must. We saw a few walk-ins being politely turned away, so it’s definitely worth booking a table in advance. The intimate setting and the personal attention from the owners made our dinner truly special. The food was delicious, with each dish bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. It was one of the best meals we had in Japan, and our daughter loved watching the chef’s culinary skills in action.
See here for more details and reservations – TEPPAN TAVERN TENAMONYA (tenamonyakyoto.com)
Final Thoughts
Walking around Kyoto at night was an unforgettable experience. The charm of the illuminated streets, the peacefulness of the temple, and the delightful dinner at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya created a perfect evening. If you find yourself in Kyoto, I highly recommend taking an evening to explore the city by night. The combination of shopping for unique gifts, discovering hidden temples, and enjoying a delicious teppanyaki meal makes for an enchanting and memorable experience.
Kyoto’s nighttime allure is truly captivating, offering a unique perspective on this beautiful city. It’s an experience that promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Japan’s cultural and culinary treasures.
