Yesterday’s lunch here in Kyoto was another wonderful surprise. I found this unassuming Japanese-style diner tucked away on the top floor of a shopping mall near Kyoto Station – the kind of place you find via serendipity rather than intent.

The chicken–cheese–rice–edamame bowl I ordered cost just 1,000 yen (≈ $6/SEK60), yet it arrived within minutes, was beautifully presented, steaming hot, and full of comforting deliciousness.

The mix of tender chicken, steamed rice, melted cheese, and lightly fried edamame beans worked together in simple, satisfying harmony.

Proof once again that in Japan, even the most unpretentious lunch spot delivers a most memorable treat.