Whenever we visit Kyoto, Japan, we always go to Tempura Kitamura in Pontocho. Within a cozy, small and intimate setting, the tempura is so light and not greasy, and the ingredients are fresh, including fish, shellfish and vegetables. It’s fun to be at the counter with the chef, especially when you speak little Japanese, like me because you get to have the fun and adventure of figuring out how to communicate, and the Japanese are always helpful and hospitable.