The Cultural Playlist: Kyoto
Travel to Kyoto through timeless music, flavors, and traditions
Konnichiwa! Welcome to The Cultural Playlist, your weekly dose of travel inspiration for culturally curious minds. Here, we spotlight the music, food, entertainment, and experiences that define a destination — so you can start exploring before you even book a ticket.
This week, we’re off to Kyoto, Japan — a city where centuries-old temples and geishas exist alongside third-wave coffee shops and vending machines that dispense everything from hot ramen to handwritten fortunes. One of the world’s most sought-after destinations, Kyoto is a city you experience with all five senses.
Below, you’ll find a carefully curated Japanese playlist, a Kyoto-style miso soup recipe, book and movie recommendations, and our top pick for an unforgettable Kyoto experience. Whether you’re planning a trip, reminiscing about one, or just indulging in some cultural wanderlust from home, consider this your passport-free guide to Kyoto.
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What makes Kyoto so special?
One moment, you’re wandering through a bamboo forest straight out of a samurai film; the next, you’re slurping ramen at a tiny hole-in-the-wall shop where the broth has been perfected over decades. Once the imperial capital, Kyoto remains the heart of traditional Japan — where tea ceremonies are a form of high art, geisha still glide through the lantern-lit alleys of Gion, and centuries-old shops continue their meticulous craft.
As if that weren’t enough, nature one-ups all of it. Time your visit right, and Kyoto will put on one of the most breathtaking seasonal displays on earth. Spring erupts in soft pink sakura (cherry blossoms), while autumn drapes the city in fiery reds and golds, making even the most Instagram-averse travelers reach for their cameras.
Whether you’re planning a trip or just indulging in a little armchair travel with your matcha, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the sounds, flavors, and traditions that make Kyoto unforgettable.
1. Listen to a Japan-inspired playlist
Sounds of Kyoto: Ancient Melodies to Modern Beats
If Tokyo is all neon and noise, Kyoto is where music slows down and sinks in. Here, sound isn’t just background noise — it’s part of the city’s rhythm. The pluck of a koto drifts from a tea house, the deep beat of taiko drums shakes the ground during a festival, and somewhere in a tucked-away jazz bar, a saxophone hums through a dimly lit room.
But Kyoto’s soundtrack isn’t all ancient melodies. Stroll through its narrow alleys, and you’ll hear gagaku (imperial court music) floating from a shrine, lo-fi beats in a minimalist café, and J-rock tracks blasting from a record shop. Kyoto-born artists like Ichiko Aoba weave delicate folk songs that sound like they belong in a Ghibli film, while Japan’s affinity with city pop and jazz continues to inspire musicians worldwide.
Press play on our Kyoto playlist to let the city’s past and present collide in your headphones. Into Japanese music? Let us know in the comments what songs we should add to this playlist!
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2. How to make Kyoto-style miso soup
Known for its refined, seasonal flavors, Kyoto cuisine (or Kyo-ryori) has long been a symbol of Japan's culinary artistry. Rooted in Buddhist temple food (shojin-ryori) and influenced by centuries of imperial history, Kyoto’s cooking focuses on purity, balance, and respect for natural ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying delicate kaiseki meals or savoring the famous yudofu (tofu hot pots), every dish tells a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to the land.
But don’t mistake Kyoto for being stuck in the past. The city’s food scene keeps evolving — blending centuries-old techniques with modern creativity. Kyoto has become a hotspot for innovative twists on classic dishes, with contemporary chefs paying homage to tradition while embracing new techniques. Whether you’re a purist or an adventurous eater, Kyoto’s flavors will have you hooked from the first sip of dashi to the last bite of a perfectly balanced wagashi.
Kyoto-Style Miso Soup Recipe: A Bowl of Comfort & Tradition
When it comes to the humble yet beloved miso soup, Kyoto has a style that’s all its own. Unlike the bolder, heartier versions found in other parts of Japan, Kyoto’s miso soup is subtle, delicate, and refined. It’s made with shiro miso, a light, creamy miso that gives the soup a clean and mild flavor. This lighter miso reflects the Kyoto culinary philosophy: simplicity, elegance, and an emphasis on seasonality.
A classic Kyoto-style miso soup typically features tofu, wakame (seaweed), and mitsuba (Japanese parsley), and is often served as part of a larger meal.
If you can’t make it to Kyoto just yet, you can bring a little piece of this rich culinary tradition into your own kitchen. Ready to simmer up some Kyoto magic in your own bowl? Let’s get started!
This Japanese miso soup recipe is quintessentially Kyoto — light, refined, and designed to showcase the clean, subtle flavors of the ingredients.
How to make Kyoto-style miso soup
(Serves 4)
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4 cups dashi (Japanese soup stock)
To make your own dashi, you will need kombu (seaweed) and bonito flakes. (See instructions)
3 tbsp shiro miso (white miso paste)
½ block silken tofu, cut into cubes
1 small bunch mitsuba (Japanese parsley) or green onions, chopped
½ cup wakame (dried seaweed), soaked and drained
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Instructions:
Make the Dashi: If you’re feeling extra fancy, make your own dashi by steeping kombu (seaweed) and bonito flakes in hot water. Otherwise, instant dashi works just fine.
Dissolve the Miso: Ladle a bit of warm dashi into a small bowl, add the miso, and whisk until smooth. This prevents clumps.
Combine & Heat: Stir the miso mixture back into the pot with the rest of the dashi. Keep the heat low — you never want to boil miso, or it’ll lose its delicate flavor.
Add the Good Stuff: Gently drop in the tofu and wakame. Let everything warm through.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with mitsuba or green onions and sip like you’re in a Kyoto ryokan overlooking a zen garden.
3. The best books about Japan
Looking for the perfect book to transport you to Japan — whether through its flavors, history, or quirky modern life? Whether you’re planning a trip, dreaming of one, or just looking for a great read, these books capture Japan’s essence in all its forms. From immersive food adventures to time-traveling coffee shops, here are four must-reads for Japan lovers.
Rice Noodle Fish by Matt Goulding
If you believe the best way to understand a country is through its food, this book is your passport to Japan’s rich culinary landscape. Rice, Noodle, Fish transports you to Japan’s street food stalls, sushi counters, and hidden local gems, and describes the artistry behind every delicious bite. A friend of the late/great Anthony Bourdain, Matt Goulding blends food journalism with travel storytelling, making this read just as satisfying as a bowl of ramen after a long day of exploring.
Why it’s great:
A deep dive into Japan’s regional food culture
Perfect for foodies planning a trip or armchair travelers craving a taste of Japan
You’ll probably end up booking a flight (or at least a sushi reservation) after reading
Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata
Meet Keiko Furukura, a woman who’s spent 18 years working in a Tokyo convenience store — and has never quite fit into society’s expectations. This offbeat, darkly humorous novel explores Japan’s rigid social norms, the pressure to conform, and the quiet rebellion of just being yourself. It’s weird, wonderful, and completely unforgettable.
Why it’s great:
A fascinating peek into everyday life in Japan
A quick, thought-provoking read with plenty of social commentary
If you’ve ever been judged for not following the “expected path,” you’ll relate
Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi
Imagine a café where you can travel back in time—but with one catch: you have to return before your coffee gets cold. This novel weaves together four emotional, interlinked stories of people revisiting the past, tackling love, loss, and the things left unsaid. With a cozy, magical realism vibe, it’s a short and sweet read — the perfect book to curl up with alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee.
Why it’s great:
A unique blend of fantasy and heartwarming storytelling
Explores Japan’s love for cafés and slow, contemplative moments
Short and sweet — read it in a weekend!
More Must-Read Books About Japan
A Brief History of Japan (for a fascinating rundown of Japan’s past)
The Tale of Genji (Japan’s first novel, for the history buffs)
Norwegian Wood (for a beautifully melancholic Murakami experience)
Tokyo Ueno Station (for a modern, poetic look at Japan’s hidden struggles)
The Travelling Cat Chronicles (for a cat’s perspective on a road trip through Japan)
Which of these books are you adding to your reading list? Let us know in the comments!
4. The best movies set in Japan
Japan’s cinematic legacy is as beautiful and intricate as its culture itself. From the breathtaking natural beauty of Kyoto’s temples and gardens to the vibrant urban life of Tokyo, Japanese films bring to life everything from the traditional to the futuristic. These films showcase the spirit of Japan, offering glimpses of its majestic history, colorful folklore, and timeless traditions.
Set in Kyoto, this film is based on the bestselling novel by Arthur Golden. It follows the life of a young girl who becomes a geisha in the heart of Kyoto, providing a stunning look at Japan's traditional tea houses and the world of geisha culture. Kyoto’s natural beauty and rich heritage are beautifully captured, making this a must-watch for anyone interested in the city’s historical charm.
This beloved Ghibli film is a masterpiece that draws on Japanese folklore and the traditions surrounding the spirit world. While not set in Kyoto, the film's depiction of mystical baths, shrines, and forests reflects traditional Japanese culture, which Kyoto is famous for. In short, this anime film is a fascinating portrayal of the mystical side of Japan.
This quirky, foodie classic follows a determined widow on her quest to perfect her ramen recipe. Tampopo is a fun exploration of Japan’s culinary culture, showcasing the art of ramen and the rituals of dining while expertly blending comedy in the form of slapstick humor with drama, and a dash of the Wild West. It’s a deliciously entertaining film that will leave you craving a glorious bowl of Tonkotsu.
More Must-Watch Movies About Japan
Lost in Translation (2003) (Set in the neon glow of Tokyo, this film is an essential pre-trip movie to watch)
Seven Samurai (1956) (Akira Kurosawa’s legendary samurai epic that inspired everything from Star Wars to The Magnificent Seven. A true masterpiece.)
Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai (2012) (A visually stunning, emotionally charged revenge tale that dives deep into the dark side of samurai honor.)
Battle Royale (2001) (The original dystopian survival thriller that paved the way for The Hunger Games — violent, intense, and completely gripping.)
Jiro Dreams of Sushi (2011) (A fascinating look at the artistry, dedication, and obsession behind Japan’s iconic dish — a must-watch for sushi lovers and anyone interested in Japanese culinary tradition.)
What movies do you think should be added to this list? Let us know in the comments!
5. Stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan
A Cultural Kyoto Experience You Won’t Forget
Want to really immerse yourself in Kyoto’s culture? Book a stay in a traditional ryokan. These charming inns are the epitome of Japanese hospitality, offering tatami mats, cozy futons, and a minimalist vibe that’s pure Zen. We recommend choosing one that includes an onsen (hot spring baths) — perfect for unwinding after a day of temple-hopping and garden strolling.
Meals at a ryokan are a culinary delight, often featuring a traditional kaiseki that highligthts seasonal ingredients and local specialties. Some ryokans also offer a traditional tea ceremony, where you can immerse yourself in the art of matcha preparation and the calming ritual of Japanese tea culture.
Staying at a ryokan in Kyoto is more than just a place to sleep — it’s a chance to connect with Japan’s timeless traditions and experience true hospitality. If you’re seeking peace, culture, and relaxation, this is the perfect escape.
Ready to step into the heart of Kyoto, unwind in a traditional ryokan, and immerse yourself in centuries of rich culture and tranquility?
Let us help you plan your unforgettable journey to Kyoto, with expert travel tips and recommendations to ensure every moment is as serene and enriching as a traditional tea ceremony. Your perfect escape awaits!
