4.1.2023. Day 3. Hananoki + Shoraian + Somekobo Yumeyusai + Arashiyama + Gion. Arashiyama + Gion. Kyoto. Japan.

For breakfast, we were aiming for a charming cafe, sadly it was closed. Therefore we ended up at Hananoki instead. Stepping into Hananoki was similar to stepping back in time in a very random unexpected way.

Hananoki
32-8 喫茶花ノ木
〒603-8148 Kyoto, Kita Ward, Koyamanishihanaikecho
Japan
+81 75-432-2598





Then we headed over to Arashiyama for our tofu kaiseki lunch at Shoraian. Shoraian is tucked away up the hill next to the Katsura River. The proprietess is a renowned master calligrapher and you can see the perfect balance in everything once you set your eyes on the exterior. Foodwise, Kyoto is famous for tofu and matcha, so I would highly recommend you indulge in both while you are there. While I have had tofu kaiseki in Kyoto in the past, Shoraian is unlike any other you will be able to find. There are a few menu options to choose from. We opted for the shofu with wagyu. Each party gets their own room for their meal. We were greeted with the most beautiful flutist playing by the river. We were told that it was due to 3 years of no gathering for hanami that we were treated to this beautiful music during our lunch. We were in disbelief of our luck and my friends just could not believe all the extra bonuses we kept getting into for this trip. For dessert, it ended with the best kinako ice cream I have ever had, which was quite a spectacular ending for this perfect meal.

Shoraian
官有地内
〒616-8386 Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, Sagakamenoocho
Japan
+81 75-861-0123























After our incredible meal, we walked around the river to enjoy the view and spring foliage.



This is the oden boat on the Katsura River.


Then I saw a sign for Somekobo Yumeyusai and suggested that we go up to see this gallery. I had known that they have spectacular views, but none of us knew the experience we were about to stumble upon... 

Yusai is a master dye artist. He investigated how to reproduce the Kôrozen dye from the Emperor in the Heian period and this is his gallery. This historical space has spectacular views of the foliage on the hill. While small, we appreciated his space and his craft. Appointment is required to view his process for dyeing. You are also free to enjoy the outdoor area and have tea and practice calligraphy. 

Somekobo Yumeyusai
6 嵐山夢祐斎
〒616-8386 Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, Sagakamenoocho
Japan
+81 75-881-2331























Then more walking around Arashiyama to enjoy the scenery and people watching. I mean...













We were hoping to see more geishas/maikos on the way home, but we were greeted with this instead.