This time, I visited "Kinsuitei" in Kyoto all the way from Hiroshima to enjoy bamboo shoots. Here are the dishes I tried: 1. Komomi-ae (dressed with young leaves) - Rich aroma and flavor of young leaves 2. Takenoko-zukuri (bamboo shoot sashimi) - Juicy bamboo shoot sashimi with fresh wasabi 3. Wakatake sumashi-jiru (clear soup with young bamboo shoots) - Unique aroma, goes well with wakame seaweed 4. Jikitake - The main dish, a special bamboo shoot dish. Amazing texture and perfect with dashi broth 5. Takenoko sushi - Especially delicious sushi with yuba and sea urchin 6. Yaki-take (grilled bamboo shoot) - Grilled with soy sauce and young leaves 7. Mushitake - Scallops and bamboo shoots wrapped in mugwort mochi, very satisfying 8. Tempura - Crispy and delicious, generous portion 9. Sunomono (vinegared dish) - Bamboo shoots and bracken with tangy jelly and salted cherry blossoms 10. Takenoko-gohan (bamboo shoot rice) - Maybe a bit too much, best with fragrant pickles 11. Mizumono (dessert) - Melon The staff at this historic restaurant were very attentive and the service level was excellent. "Jikatake" may seem like a lot, but the deep flavor of bonito broth and the texture and aroma of bamboo shoots make it a luxurious and enjoyable dish that you can easily finish. Please try it at least once.

In late June, my wife and I visited "Kinsoitei" in Nagaokakyo City, Kyoto Prefecture for lunch on a Saturday. We stopped by as part of a Kyoto day trip bus tour for lunch. Located right next to Nagaoka Hachimangu Shrine, we enjoyed our meal while overlooking a beautiful pond. We had the Bamboo Bento (¥4000, tax and service charge not included), a three-tiered traditional Japanese lunch box. Each dish was delicately flavored and elegant, truly representing Kyoto cuisine. The bamboo shoot tempura, rolled omelette, and pickles were particularly delicious. It felt like a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine, and I felt like I could become healthier by eating such food every day. It reminded me of the essence of Japanese cuisine.

Everything was delicious. However, the bamboo shoots this year were harvested early, so I missed out on having bamboo shoot sashimi. The view from the room, including Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine, was very beautiful. I am planning to come back next year with my wife to enjoy bamboo shoot sashimi again.

I visited a restaurant that offers a full course menu featuring bamboo shoots during the spring bamboo shoot season. I was surprised by the large slices of bamboo shoots. Despite being thick and large, they were soft and had a refined taste infused with Kyoto cuisine broth.

We visited this restaurant a little early for autumn leaves. It is located right next to Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine, and it feels like there is a tatami room built over the pond. There are several private rooms available for groups, so you can enjoy chatting with family and friends without feeling awkward. The dishes are served one by one and are very elegant, with several dishes of bamboo shoot cuisine as well. I think it's good for family gatherings or events.

Located near Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine in Nagaokakyo, Kyoto, this elegant restaurant is surrounded by a pond and garden with picturesque buildings scattered around. During this time of year in spring, the Kirishima azaleas on the bridge above the pond turn a vibrant red, creating a charming atmosphere. I remembered how beautiful the Kirishima azaleas were when I visited in late April before, so I wanted to bring my parents here to see them again and of course, try the famous bamboo shoot dishes. I made a reservation for us, and since the private rooms are for 4 people or more, we were placed in the main hall as there were only 3 of us. The reservation was quite full, so we had to stick with the original date and time. However, I was informed that there is a floor seating area available for us, so I agreed to that option. I was curious about what it would be like. On the day of the reservation, I arrived early at around 12 pm, forgetting that the reservation was for 1:30 pm. I decided to visit Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine first and have some tea to pass the time. While resting at the shrine, I remembered how I didn't find bamboo shoots tasty when I was a child, but now as an adult, I appreciate their delicious flavor. Suddenly, I heard the sound of drums – a monkey show was about to start. I decided to check it out and spent some time there, realizing it was already past 1 pm. Finally, it was time for the main event. I checked in, and a staff member in a kimono led us to a room above the pond. We took off our shoes and sat at a table with chairs. The view from the window overlooking the pond and surroundings was delightful. The Kirishima azaleas this year were a bit faded due to the rain, but other azaleas were blooming beautifully. The meal was served promptly – bamboo shoot sashimi, bamboo shoot salad, bamboo shoot sushi, and more. The bamboo shoot dishes were creatively prepared and delicious, truly capturing the essence of spring. The meal was filling and satisfying, ending with a tasty bamboo shoot rice dish and refreshing melon for dessert. The bamboo shoot feast was priced at 12,000 yen per person, plus service charge and tax, totaling to 14,520 yen per person. Although it was a bit pricey, it was worth it. Overall, it was a delightful dining experience.

I made a reservation for lunch at Nishikizui Tei at 12:00. I was guided to the 2nd floor of the main building. Instead of a large room with a view of the Yojikagaike pond from the window, I was taken to a slightly secluded private room. The view wasn't great, it was a bit dark, but I could see bamboo and a garden in the back. Well, it was actually better this way considering there were a lot of people around this time of year, so it was reassuring. The menu was not a full course of bamboo shoots, but rather a bamboo shoot and fish course. The meal consisted of dishes centered around bamboo shoots, including sashimi of local fish, sweetened carp with roe, and other dishes. The sweetened carp with roe is a dish made with a secret sauce that has been passed down since the establishment of the restaurant. The fresh carp, sourced seasonally and kept alive in a stone tank filled with spring water until just before cooking, was not fishy and was well-received even by those who are not fond of carp. The course included bamboo shoot rice, clear soup with young bamboo shoots, tempura, pickled vegetables, and dessert. The portion was quite generous. The dashi broth of the bamboo shoot rice was slightly sweet, but the bamboo shoots themselves were delicious. The large bamboo shoots had to be eaten whole, which was a bit challenging. I wanted to try grilled and boiled bamboo shoots as well. The sweetened carp with roe was made with the original sauce from the founding period, with plenty of roe in the carp. The flesh was tender and flavorful. On the way back, I took a short walk around Yojikagaike pond and Nagaoka Tenjin shrine. I was a bit surprised by the bill when I left. I had known in advance, but there was a 15% service charge plus a 10% consumption tax added. They didn't provide any explanation of the dishes or services, so I was a bit taken aback. If it was just a service charge, it would have been fine, but adding the consumption tax as well was unexpected. I wonder if a service charge translates to a service fee in Japanese. I usually don't complain, but I felt the need to mention it this time.

During the beloved bamboo shoot season, I enjoyed a private room filled with bamboo shoot dishes. Each dish was delicious, with sweet bamboo shoots that had no bitterness. The full course meal was all about bamboo shoots, but it never got boring as each dish was tasty, and the dashi broth with bamboo was amazing. The location with views of azaleas and a pond from the private room was perfect. I would love to visit again when everything is in full bloom! ♥️

Today, I visited "Nishikisuitei" in Nagaokakyo. Along the way from the station to the restaurant, I saw unmanned stalls selling bamboo shoots, which made me realize that this area is famous for bamboo shoots. The restaurant is located inside Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine, with a spacious private room where we enjoyed our meal. I had never imagined what a bamboo shoot-themed meal would be like, but from start to finish, I thoroughly enjoyed the bamboo shoots. The best seat right in front of the pond is reserved for groups, so it's not available for reservation during peak season. However, during the off-season, it is possible to make a reservation for two people. Thank you for the wonderful meal.

At 96 years old, I went on a trip with my mother. For lunch on the second day, we visited a restaurant that my mother had always wanted to go to during bamboo shoot season. Located within the grounds of Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine, this restaurant consists of separate dining areas scattered around a pond, giving the feeling of dining on a boat. When you open the sliding doors, a refreshing breeze comes in from the water. The dishes served were a bamboo shoot-themed kaiseki meal, which was absolutely delicious. We couldn't help but exclaim in delight with each dish. The highlight was the trademark dish called "#Jikitake," which featured the tender core of the bamboo shoot simmered in a light bonito and kelp broth. According to the provided explanation, members of the imperial family who moved to Tokyo after the Meiji Restoration often visited this restaurant when they missed Kyoto. It was a special feeling to think that we were enjoying the same view and food as those esteemed individuals. The bill was taken care of by my mother (approximately 15,000 yen per person), as a gesture of appreciation. After being treated to such delicious food, we expressed our gratitude and vowed to continue being well taken care of.

I visited last week and had a great experience, so I decided to come back again. This time, I reserved the authentic kaiseki course for ¥20,000 (excluding tax and service charge). The dishes were all carefully prepared, beautiful, and delicious, making me very satisfied. The quiet and peaceful atmosphere allowed me to relax and unwind.

I visited Yangokiji Temple in Nagaokakyo City to see the hydrangeas and decided to have lunch at this restaurant that I had been curious about for a while. Due to the state of emergency, the restaurant was only open for lunch on weekends, and reservations had to be made by phone with a specified date and time. I made a reservation before leaving for the visit. I had the bamboo princess bento box for ¥3500 (excluding tax and service charge) in a charming private room overlooking a pond. The food was beautifully presented and delicious, and I enjoyed the calm and quiet atmosphere. I was very satisfied and plan to visit again soon to enjoy another authentic kaiseki meal.

I visited Nishikimizu-tei in Nagaokakyo City, Kyoto Prefecture. I was guided to a private room floating on the Yojikake Pond. The adjacent private room looked like this. When you open the window, you can only hear the sound of rain and birds. You can also see the grand torii gate of Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine. From March 30th to early May, they only offer a bamboo shoot course. I had the Bamboo Shoot Course for 12,000 yen (+ service charge 1,800, tax 1,380). The course included dishes such as bamboo shoot with wood sorrel, sashimi with bamboo shoot, bamboo shoot soup with young bamboo shoots and octopus, bamboo shoot sushi with sea bream, tofu skin, and sea urchin, grilled bamboo shoot, bamboo shoot tempura, vinegared dish, and bamboo shoot rice. All the bamboo shoot dishes were delicious. The private room floating on the pond was very quiet, allowing me to enjoy a luxurious and relaxing time. It started raining lightly at the beginning of the meal, but then it poured heavily, making the staff's kimono wet as they brought out the dishes. I had the early bamboo shoots this time, but I would love to try the peak season bamboo shoots in mid-April or the last of the season bamboo shoots in May someday. After the meal, I walked to the water bridge and took a picture of the private room. I wish it had been sunny.

I came here after a long time today. It's not bamboo shoots, but it's delicious. The view from the room is great. It was a relaxing lunch after a long time. The service could be a little better. It's a bit disappointing that they couldn't answer questions about the menu. And they were running around like they were busy (laughs). It's not good to run in front of customers. It's a nice atmosphere, but that point is a shame ^^;

Located by the shore of Lake Hachijogaike in Nagaokakyo City, this restaurant is a traditional Japanese inn. While there are many restaurants in Kyoto, dining on the veranda overlooking the lake in a tea-ceremony style building is truly special. Moreover, being situated near historic temples and shrines adds to the experience. In April, they offer a multi-course meal featuring bamboo shoots from the area. I had this meal about 4-5 years ago. If photos come up, I might add them later. Overall, the location is top-notch. It's worth paying for the dining experience here, especially for those who want to try something unique. Yes.

In spring, there are many ingredients that come into season, but among them, I particularly look forward to seeing Spanish mackerel and bamboo shoots. Spanish mackerel is in season around New Year's, so it's more of a winter delicacy. In that sense, if we're talking about the current sense of spring, then bamboo shoots would be the perfect match. In Kyoto, when spring arrives, various restaurants offer dishes using bamboo shoots, but what I really want to try is a kaiseki meal that focuses solely on bamboo shoots. It's not a cheap meal, but rather a luxurious one. The restaurants that offer this kind of meal either have their own bamboo groves or have close connections with bamboo producers. This particular restaurant stands out among others in providing such dishes. The building and the dishes both exude elegance. The bamboo shoots, presented in various ways on each plate, showcase the incredible potential of this ingredient. The sashimi, in particular, was outstanding. Thank you for the wonderful meal!

Visited Nagaoka-kyo, Nishikitei near Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine, a high-class restaurant by the Yojikake of Hachijo Pond. Truly Kyoto with a traditional Japanese atmosphere. I had lunch, which was a bento box filled with Kyoto cuisine. Grilled mackerel in sweet miso, deep-fried bamboo shoots with fresh flour, fresh wheat gluten, delicious! It was really tasty. Thank you for the meal!

Today, I visited Nishikisuitei, a renowned restaurant specializing in bamboo shoot cuisine located adjacent to the Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine, for the first time in two years. Established in the 14th year of the Meiji era, the restaurant's traditional tea room overlooks the tranquil atmosphere of the Yojogaike pond and lush greenery, creating a truly wonderful setting. Nishikisuitei is known for its exquisite dishes made with freshly harvested bamboo shoots. Their signature dish, Jikitake, features large, thick bamboo shoots that are surprisingly easy to chew despite their size, thanks to the gentle seasoning and flavorful bonito broth. The texture and taste of these bamboo shoots leave a lasting impression on diners. However, the rushed service and uncomfortable seating arrangements at Nishikisuitei were disappointing. Despite this, I highly recommend trying their bamboo shoot dishes, especially the Jikitake. The menu for today's meal, which cost 48,470 yen for two people, included a variety of bamboo shoot dishes such as bamboo shoot and trefoil salad, sashimi with bamboo shoots, bamboo shoot hand-rolled sushi, and more. Overall, Nishikisuitei is a must-visit for those looking to experience the best of bamboo shoot cuisine.

This year's self-organized cherry blossom viewing meetup was delayed due to low temperatures affecting the cherry blossoms, so we quickly left before reaching the cherry blossoms at Komyoji. Since the community bus runs every 30 minutes, we decided to walk to "Kinsoitei" to lift our spirits. Despite being located within the precincts of Nagaoka Tenjin, Kinsoitei boasts a huge scale as a traditional Japanese restaurant, visible from afar. Upon arrival, the service was impeccable, as expected from a high-class restaurant. We opted for the seasonal "bamboo shoot course" for lunch. From grilled bamboo shoots to the restaurant's specialty dishes like "nokozukuri" and "jikitake," we enjoyed the same level of skill and deliciousness as we did at "Takenotei" last year, which cannot be found in Tokyo. This area is known as the "Mozume" district, once the leading bamboo shoot brand in Japan and still a producer of high-quality brands. The dishes were excellent in variety, taste, and preparation, as expected from a restaurant where even members of the imperial family dine (according to the restaurant's promotional flyer). However, while "Takenotei" in the area of Tsukahara, which produces the current number one bamboo shoot brand "Shirako," offered additional a la carte options for around 7,000 yen, "Kinsoitei" was priced at 14,500 yen including tax for lunch. It is said to exceed 20,000 yen for dinner. If the quality of the dishes is almost equal, then the difference is clear (laughs). Despite the advantage of being closer to the nearest station, "Kinsoitei" left us with good memories. After the meal, we hurried back to Kyoto to catch the performance of "Miyako Odori" at Minamiza Theater without delay.

Next to Ongata Tenjin, maybe even within the premises. It's quite extravagant to have bamboo shoots at a traditional Japanese restaurant. And on top of that, in a huge private room all to ourselves. Well, it might be good for conversation topics, but the price is quite high. I don't dislike bamboo shoots, but is it really necessary to go this far?

Today's lunch was at "Nishiki Sui-tei" in Kyoto. Yesterday, I went on a group tour to visit Ise Shrine. We arrived in Kyoto all the way from Mie Prefecture on a large bus. We visited Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine and then had lunch. During the spring season, you can enjoy a traditional "bamboo shoot kaiseki" using the finest bamboo shoots from the western mountains of Kyoto. But now, it's autumn with dazzling autumn leaves. Since it was a group tour, we were confined to a large room and had a traditional Japanese bento box with three tiers. It included a variety of Japanese side dishes and fried foods. The rice was not bamboo shoots but shimeji mushrooms. As expected from a long-established restaurant founded in 1881, the food was delicious.