From Toyko to Kyoto

After an early breakfast at the hotel, Pedro Valente and I packed up and headed to the Shinkansen station, ready for the next leg of our adventure. The bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto was everything I’d hoped it would be—fast, efficient, and a smooth two-hour ride. Before we knew it, we were stepping off the train and into the rich, historical atmosphere of Kyoto.

Our first stop was the Butokuden site, also known as Butokukai. This place is iconic in the history of jujutsu, as it was where many masters gathered for challenge matches and important organizational meetings. Walking through the site, I couldn’t help but imagine the legendary matches that took place here. One notable figure, Masahiko Kimura, honed his skills in Kosen Judo competitions at this very spot, later becoming a Kosen Judo champion. It was amazing to stand where such history unfolded, feeling the deep connection between past and present jujutsu.

Afterward, Pedro and I decided to explore Kyoto a little more, making our way through several antique shops that specialized in samurai katanas and armor. The craftsmanship and history behind each piece were incredible to see up close, and it really gave us a deeper appreciation for the art of the samurai. We spent the rest of the afternoon strolling around the city, soaking in the beauty and calm that Kyoto is known for.

By the time we checked into the Park Hyatt, we were ready for a little relaxation. The hotel was stunning, and we took some time to settle in and prepare for what promised to be a memorable dinner.

That evening, we had the pleasure of a private dinner with the renowned Soba Samurai, a famous soba chef known for his mastery of the craft. The meal was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced—dish after dish of the most exceptional soba, each one unique and full of flavor. The personal touch of the private dinner made it even more special. After the meal, we spent time with the chef himself, learning about his process and passion for the art of soba making. It was the perfect mix of great food and meaningful conversation.

As we made our way back to the hotel, we passed by a famous staircase from the movie The Last Samurai, a film that’s one of the Valente Brothers’ favorites. It was a cool little moment to see it in person, bringing a touch of cinematic history to our day.

By the end of the night, we were back at the hotel, preparing for what promises to be another full day of exploring Kyoto tomorrow. Today was a perfect mix of history, culture, and unforgettable experiences. I can’t wait to see what else Kyoto has in store for us.