A Solo Cultural Retreat in Kyoto, Japan

A Day in Gion: Where Time Stands Still

Today, I truly felt like I stepped back in time as I explored the captivating district of Gion. The crisp January air, though cold, added a certain charm to the ancient streets, making every corner feel like a scene from a historical painting. I was eager to discover the heart of Kyoto's geisha district and immerse myself in its rich cultural tapestry. I had heard so much about Gion, and I must say, the reality exceeded all expectations.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Fujiya. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and perfectly steamed rice. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. The cozy atmosphere of the restaurant was inviting, and the friendly staff made me feel right at home.


Discover the exquisite flavors of traditional kaiseki cuisine at Fujiya in Kyoto - where every meal is a masterpiece.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set off to explore Gion. The narrow streets, lined with well-preserved wooden machiya houses, exuded an old-world charm that was simply irresistible. It was easy to imagine geishas gracefully gliding through these streets centuries ago. I meandered along Hanamikoji Street, the main thoroughfare of Gion, taking in the sights and sounds of this historic district. Although I knew that taking photos of geishas was discouraged, I kept my eyes peeled, hoping to catch a glimpse of these elusive figures.

It’s the kind of place where you can almost hear the whispers of history carried on the winter wind.

Next on my list was the picturesque Shirakawa Canal. This tranquil waterway, with its weeping willow trees and charming stone bridges, was like something out of a fairytale. I took a leisurely stroll along the canal, admiring the reflections of the surrounding buildings in the crystal-clear water. The gentle sound of the flowing water created a sense of serenity that was a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. I paused on Tatsumi Bridge, one of Kyoto's most popular photo spots, to capture the beauty of the canal and its surroundings. The combination of historic wooden buildings, a picturesque canal, and graceful willow trees truly captured the essence of Kyoto.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Shirakawa Canal in Kyoto, where traditional architecture meets serene waterways, perfect for a peaceful stroll.

After my peaceful walk along the Shirakawa Canal, I made my way to Yasaka Shrine, also known as Gion Shrine. This vibrant Shinto shrine, with its colorful buildings and ornate decorations, was a feast for the senses. I learned that Yasaka Shrine is famous for its summer festival, the Gion Matsuri, which dates back over a thousand years. Although it was January, I could still feel the energy and excitement that this festival brings to the city. I explored the shrine grounds, admiring the main hall and the dance stage with its hundreds of lanterns. I took a moment to offer a prayer for good health and happiness, hoping that the deities would grant me a safe and fulfilling journey.


Discover the serene beauty of Yasaka Shrine, a historical Shinto sanctuary in Kyoto, renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural festivals.

Before lunch, I decided to explore Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street. It's a covered arcade offering a mix of traditional crafts, souvenirs, and modern goods. It was a great place to pick up some unique gifts for my family back home. I found a beautiful silk scarf for my mother and a set of traditional Japanese toys for Sofia. The vibrant atmosphere of the shopping street was infectious, and I enjoyed browsing the various shops and sampling some of the local snacks.


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

For lunch, I indulged in a delightful meal at Hyoto Shijo Karasuma. The restaurant specialized in dashi shabu-shabu, a hot pot dish with a flavorful broth. I opted for the branded pork dashi shabu-shabu course, which included a variety of seasonal ingredients. The meal was a true culinary experience, and I savored every bite of the tender pork and the delicate vegetables. The elegant setting of the restaurant added to the overall enjoyment of the meal. It was the perfect way to warm up on a chilly winter day.


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

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store for dinner. This renowned restaurant was known for its perfectly breaded and deep-fried pork cutlets. I ordered the classic tonkatsu set, which came with rice, miso soup, and shredded cabbage. The tonkatsu was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the homemade sauce added a burst of flavor. It was a truly satisfying meal, and I understood why this restaurant was so highly regarded.


Savor the best tonkatsu in Kyoto at Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store—where tradition meets flavor.

After dinner, I took one last stroll through Gion, soaking in the magical atmosphere of the district at night. The lanterns cast a warm glow on the streets, creating a sense of intimacy and mystery. I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of Gion, and I knew that this was a day I would never forget.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Kyoto International Manga Museum, Daitoku-ji Temple, and the Kyoto Botanical Gardens. It will be another day filled with cultural exploration and new discoveries. I am also looking forward to trying Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki & Teppan-yaki Kamehameha for dinner. But now, it's time to rest and recharge for another exciting day in Kyoto.

As I reflect on my day, I am reminded of the words of the great travel writer, Pico Iyer:

We travel, initially, to lose ourselves; and we travel, next, to find ourselves.

Indeed, today I lost myself in the enchanting streets of Gion and, in doing so, found a deeper connection to the rich culture and history of Kyoto. It was a day of simple pleasures, profound beauty, and unforgettable memories. I’m so happy Pieter encouraged me to take this trip! I know he and Sofia would have loved exploring Gion with me. I'll be sure to bring them back here one day.

The weather in Kyoto in January can be quite cold, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 9°C. It's essential to dress warmly in layers, including a wool or down coat, gloves, and a scarf. Although snow is rare, it's always a good idea to be prepared for the possibility of a dusting. Despite the cold, January is a great time to visit Kyoto, as the crowds are smaller and the city is quieter. The clear skies and crisp air make it ideal for exploring the outdoors and enjoying the winter scenery.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a mental note to buy a travel adapter and sunscreen tomorrow – those two forgotten essentials from Amsterdam are sorely missed! Good night from Kyoto!