A Solo Cultural Retreat in Kyoto, Japan

Whispers of the Past

Today in Kyoto, I was enveloped in the city's spiritual embrace, tracing paths that have been walked for centuries. From the vermillion gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine (Thousand Torii Gates) to the serene halls of Sanjusangendo, it was a day of profound beauty and reflection. I find myself increasingly drawn to the quiet corners of this vibrant city, places where the past feels not just remembered, but alive.

My day began with an early breakfast at Kyoto cuisine Teramachi Yoshikura. The restaurant was lovely, and I enjoyed a Kyoto-style breakfast set. The Obanzai All-You-Can-Eat option was a real treat, with so many different small dishes to try. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. I even made a note to try and recreate some of the dishes when I return to Amsterdam, perhaps adding a Dutch twist to the traditional recipes.


Discover authentic Kyoto cuisine at Teramachi Yoshikura – where traditional flavors meet modern creativity in an unforgettable dining experience.

My first stop was the famed Fushimi Inari Shrine, a seemingly endless tunnel of vibrant red torii gates snaking up a mountainside. The crisp winter air nipped at my cheeks, but the climb warmed me quickly. Even in January, the shrine was bustling with visitors, a mix of locals and tourists alike, all drawn to this iconic landmark. As I ascended, the crowds thinned, and I found myself alone with the mountain, the rustling bamboo, and the occasional cat darting across my path. The higher I climbed, the more the city sounds faded, replaced by the whispers of the wind and the distant calls of birds. I made sure to participate in Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the new year, and prayed for good fortune and success.


Explore the enchanting Fushimi Inari Shrine, home to thousands of vibrant torii gates, where tradition and breathtaking beauty await every visitor.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its temples and shrines, but in the way it invites you to slow down, to breathe, and to connect with something larger than yourself.

After descending Fushimi Inari, I headed to Tofuku-ji Temple. Founded in 1236, Tofuku-ji was serene and beautiful. While Tofuku-ji is most famous for its autumn colors, the winter scenery was still stunning. The bare trees and snow-dusted gardens created a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere. I took my time wandering through the temple grounds, admiring the ancient architecture and the meticulously designed gardens. I particularly enjoyed the Hojo Garden, with its unique checkerboard pattern made of stones and moss.


Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Tofuku-ji Temple, a must-visit Buddhist landmark in Kyoto.

Lunch was at The SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO, an Italian restaurant housed in a beautifully restored traditional building. The setting was exquisite, with a lovely garden view. I opted for the seasonal tasting menu, which featured fresh, local ingredients. Each dish was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. It was a delightful fusion of Italian flavors and Japanese aesthetics. I made sure to try their vegan options and was blown away.


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

My final temple of the day was Sanjusangendo, home to 1,001 statues of the Thousand-Armed Kannon. The sheer scale of the hall, the longest wooden structure in Japan, was breathtaking. Stepping inside was like entering another world. The air was thick with incense, and the silence was profound. Row upon row of golden statues stretched into the distance, each with a unique expression and posture. It was an overwhelming, yet deeply moving experience. I took my time to examine the statues, marveling at the craftsmanship and the artistry. I have to admit, after staring at them for a while, my eyes started to play tricks on me.


Explore the serene Sanjusangendo Temple, home to 1001 captivating Kannon statues and a peaceful retreat in the heart of Kyoto.

As evening approached, I decided to treat myself to a cocktail at L'Escamoteur, a quirky bar known for its creative drinks and magical atmosphere. Finding the place was an adventure in itself, tucked away in a small alley. The bartender, a charismatic Frenchman, mixed my drink with flair, adding a touch of showmanship to the experience. The cocktail was delicious and the ambiance was cozy and inviting. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of temple hopping.


Discover L'Escamoteur, Kyoto's enchanting cocktail bar where artistry meets mixology in a whimsical atmosphere. Unforgettable drinks await!

Before heading back to The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Kyoto, I wandered through the streets near the hotel, soaking in the atmosphere of the city at night. The lanterns glowed softly, casting long shadows, and the air was filled with the sounds of laughter and conversation. I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this magical city. I'm so grateful that Pieter encouraged me to take this solo trip; it's exactly what I needed.


Experience the perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional charm at The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Kyoto, your ideal base for exploring this historic city.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, explore the charming streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, and perhaps do some shopping at Noren by Corazon. I'm also looking forward to trying Masayoshi Japanese Dining for breakfast, Hafuu for lunch, and Yasakadori Enraku for dinner. Each day here is a new adventure, a new opportunity to discover the beauty and wonder of Kyoto.

It's funny, before I left Amsterdam, Sofia gave me a little handmade bracelet to wear on my trip, a reminder of home. I haven't taken it off since. It's a small thing, but it makes me feel connected to my family, even when I'm thousands of miles away. I miss them terribly, but I know this experience is something I'll cherish forever.

I'm starting to think about how I can incorporate some of the things I've learned here into my life back in Amsterdam. Perhaps I'll start taking Japanese cooking classes, or maybe I'll try to learn the art of calligraphy. The possibilities seem endless.

As I drift off to sleep tonight, I'm filled with a sense of peace and contentment. Kyoto has a way of calming the soul, of reminding you to appreciate the simple things in life. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Oh, and I really need to remember to buy a travel adapter. My phone is constantly running out of battery, and it's a real hassle trying to find a place to charge it. And sunscreen! Even in January, the sun can be surprisingly strong, especially when you're spending all day outdoors. Note to self: add those to the shopping list for tomorrow.

Goodnight from Kyoto!