Family Cultural Exploration in Kyoto

Finding Peace on the Philosopher's Path

Today was a day of gentle exploration and quiet contemplation. Leaving behind the modern comforts of the Cross Hotel Kyoto, I embarked on a journey to discover the serene beauty hidden within Kyoto's ancient paths and temples. After yesterday’s vibrant experience in Gion, I was seeking a more introspective experience, and today certainly delivered.


Discover the charm of Kyoto from Cross Hotel Kyoto, where comfort meets convenience just steps from the city's historic treasures.

Our day began with a delightful vegan breakfast at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO. It’s always a treat to find plant-based options that are both delicious and satisfying. I opted for their famous Heavenly Vegan Pancakes. They were as fluffy and dreamy as everyone says. Klaus enjoyed a hearty Katsu Burger, while Ama happily munched on a fruit plate. It’s wonderful to find a place where everyone can enjoy their meal without compromise. It’s a small, cozy spot tucked away from the main streets, offering a peaceful start to our day.

With our bellies full, we set out for the Philosopher's Path. As we walked, the air was filled with the sweet scent of spring blossoms. The path itself is a tranquil canal-side walkway in Kyoto's Higashiyama district, named after the renowned philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who apparently used to stroll here while deep in thought. I could certainly see why; the gentle flow of the water, the rustling leaves, and the soft sunlight filtering through the trees created an atmosphere of profound peace.


Explore the Philosopher's Path, a serene journey through nature and philosophy in Kyoto, lined with cherry blossoms and historic temples.

Walking the Philosopher's Path is like stepping into a living painting, where every element—water, stone, and sky—contributes to a masterpiece of tranquility.

Ama loved chasing butterflies along the path, while Klaus and I took our time, soaking in the atmosphere. The occasional cyclist or fellow traveler would pass by with a polite nod, but for the most part, it felt like we had the path all to ourselves. It was the perfect opportunity to reflect on our journey so far, and to appreciate the simple beauty of the present moment. I thought about my work back in Potsdam, developing AI for sustainable agriculture, and how important it is to find balance between technological advancement and preserving the natural world. This path was a gentle reminder of that balance.

Our first major stop along the Philosopher's Path was Higashiyama Jisho-ji, also known as Ginkaku-ji or the Silver Pavilion. While it's called the Silver Pavilion, it was never actually covered in silver. Built by Ashikaga Yoshimasa as a retirement villa, it later became a Zen temple. The understated elegance of the pavilion, set against the backdrop of meticulously raked sand gardens and mossy hills, was captivating. It was interesting to learn that Yoshimasa designed it to resemble a smaller, humbler version of the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), commissioned by his grandfather. There is a sense of wabi-sabi, or beauty in imperfection, that is so very present here.


Explore the serene beauty of Higashiyama Jisho-ji, a tranquil Buddhist temple in Kyoto, known for its stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.

We explored the serene gardens, admiring the carefully placed stones and the ancient trees. Ama was fascinated by the Kogetsudai, a cone-shaped sand sculpture said to represent Mount Fuji, and the Ginshadan, a platform of sand believed to reflect the moon. The views from the upper garden, overlooking Kyoto, were simply breathtaking. I imagined what it must have been like for Yoshimasa to retreat here, seeking solace from the political turmoil of his time. It’s a place where you can truly feel the weight of history, but also a sense of timelessness.

Leaving Ginkaku-ji, we continued along the Philosopher's Path towards Eikan-dō Temple. Along the way, we stopped at a small tea house for a refreshing cup of matcha and some traditional sweets. Ama, of course, spilled some matcha on her kimono, but she giggled, and all was well. These little mishaps are just part of the adventure, aren't they?


Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Eikan-dō Temple, a must-visit Buddhist sanctuary in Kyoto, Japan, surrounded by stunning gardens.

Eikan-dō Temple, formally known as Zenrinji Temple, was another highlight of the day. This temple is renowned for its autumn colors, but even in May, it was stunning. The temple is built on a hillside, with wooden corridors connecting the various halls and buildings. This design created a sense of exploration and discovery as we wandered through the complex.

One of the most unique features of Eikan-dō is the Mikaeri Amida statue, an image of the Amida Buddha looking over his shoulder. Legend has it that the priest Eikan was walking through the temple one day when the statue turned its head towards him and spoke. It’s a striking image, and it certainly made me pause and reflect on the importance of looking back and learning from the past.

We explored the Shakado (Hall of the Historical Buddha), admiring the rock garden and the beautifully painted sliding doors. We also visited the Miedo, which enshrines Honen, the founder of the Jodo sect. The Tahoto Pagoda, nestled among the trees on the hillside, offered panoramic views of the temple grounds and the city beyond. It was a bit of a climb to reach the pagoda, but the view was well worth the effort.

After immersing ourselves in the beauty and history of Eikan-dō, we decided to treat ourselves to a well-deserved lunch. We chose Hyoto Shijo Karasuma, known for its elegant setting and local ingredients. It was a delightful experience. I opted for the dashi shabu-shabu, which was both comforting and flavorful, while Klaus enjoyed a seasonal fish dish. Ama was happy with her children's menu set.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors with exquisite hot pot and Kaiseki dishes at Hyoto Shijo Karasuma in Kyoto.

With our energy restored, we ventured into the Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street for a bit of retail therapy. This bustling pedestrian street is a vibrant mix of traditional shops and modern boutiques. We found everything from kimono fabrics to anime goods. I picked up a beautiful silk scarf as a souvenir, while Klaus found a unique piece of pottery. Ama was thrilled with a Hello Kitty keychain she spotted.


Explore Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street, a vibrant hub of traditional crafts, delicious street food, and unique shopping experiences in the heart of Kyoto.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO for dinner. This restaurant, housed in a former residence of a famous Japanese painter, offered a truly special dining experience. The Italian cuisine was exquisite, and the ambiance was both elegant and relaxing. We savored every bite, reflecting on the day's adventures.


Discover the perfect blend of Italian culinary artistry and traditional Japanese ambiance at The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Heian Shrine, the Kyoto Botanical Gardens and the Kyoto International Manga Museum. It promises to be another day filled with cultural immersion and new discoveries. And perhaps, we'll find that forgotten power adapter! It's always something, isn't it?

Back at the Cross Hotel Kyoto, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences of the day. Kyoto has a way of slowing down time, of inviting you to appreciate the beauty that surrounds you. It's a place where you can connect with history, with nature, and with yourself. And as I drift off to sleep, I know that tomorrow will bring even more wonders to discover.