A Solo Cultural Retreat in Kyoto, Japan

Finding Peace on the Philosopher's Path

Today was a day for quiet contemplation and exploration, a chance to lose myself in the serene beauty of Kyoto. I embarked on a journey that took me along winding paths, through ancient temples, and into the heart of Japanese culture. It was a day of reflection, a day to breathe and simply be present in this enchanting city.

My day began with a delightful breakfast at Oryori Menami. This restaurant is a true gem, offering a taste of authentic Kyoto cuisine. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the food was simply exquisite. I savored every bite, feeling grateful for the chance to experience such culinary artistry. It’s these small moments of pleasure that make traveling so rewarding.


Experience authentic Obanzai cuisine in Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward at Oryori Menami - where tradition meets taste.

With a satisfied stomach and a spring in my step, I set out to explore the famed Philosopher's Path. The Philosopher's Path, or *Tetsugaku no Michi*, is a stone path that follows a canal in Kyoto. It's named after the philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who was said to practice meditation while walking this route. Even in January, the path held a certain charm. The bare trees whispered stories of seasons past, and the gentle flow of the canal provided a soothing soundtrack to my thoughts.

I started my walk near the Ginkaku-ji Temple (though I decided to save that for another day) and made my way south toward Nanzen-ji. The air was crisp and cool, perfect for a leisurely stroll. I passed quaint cafes and little shops, each with its own unique character. I could imagine how beautiful this path must be in spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Perhaps I'll have to return then!

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

My first major stop was Nanzen-ji Temple. This Zen temple is one of the most important in Japan, and its sprawling grounds are a testament to its significance. I wandered through the Sanmon Gate, marveling at its imposing size and intricate design. The gate was constructed in 1628 by the ruling Tokugawa clan for soldiers who died in the siege of Osaka Castle in 1615. Imagine the stories it could tell!


Discover the tranquility of Nanzen-ji, a historic Buddhist temple complex in Kyoto, where spirituality meets stunning natural beauty.

I then explored the Hojo, the former head priest's residence, which is famous for its rock garden. The rocks are said to resemble tigers and cubs crossing through water, a rather whimsical image that sparked my imagination. I also took some time to admire the paintings on the sliding doors, which depict more realistic tigers on gold leaf. The attention to detail was astounding.

One of the more unusual sights at Nanzen-ji was the large brick aqueduct that runs through the temple grounds. It was built during the Meiji period to carry water from Lake Biwa to Kyoto, a testament to the city's ingenuity and resourcefulness. It’s a curious blend of the ancient and the modern, coexisting in perfect harmony.

Leaving Nanzen-ji, I continued along the Philosopher's Path to Eikando Temple, also known as Zenrin-ji. This temple is renowned for its stunning autumn colors, but even in winter, it had a certain allure. Founded in 853 by a disciple of the monk Kūkai, this temple has a long and fascinating history.


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

Eikando is perhaps most famous for its unique Amida Buddha statue, which looks back over its shoulder. Legend has it that the statue came to life one day and began leading the monk Eikan in his walking meditation. When Eikan hesitated, the statue turned its head and said, “Yokan, you are slow.” It’s a charming story that adds to the temple's mystique. I found myself pausing, reflecting on my own pace through life. Am I taking the time to truly appreciate the journey, or am I rushing towards some unseen destination?

After a morning of temples and reflection, I was ready for lunch. I headed to Premium Pound Gion, a restaurant that specializes in teppanyaki. The experience was as much a feast for the eyes as it was for the palate. The chef skillfully prepared the food right in front of me, with a flourish and a smile. The Kobe beef was cooked to perfection, melting in my mouth with each bite. It was a truly indulgent experience, and one that I won't soon forget.


Experience culinary artistry at Premium Pound Gion – where French cuisine meets Japanese teppanyaki in the heart of Kyoto's historic Gion district.

In the afternoon, I decided to indulge in a bit of shopping. I made my way to Kyoto Station and visited the ASTY Kyoto Kyoani Goods Store. As someone who appreciates animation and art, I was excited to see what they had to offer. The store was filled with merchandise from various Kyoto Animation series, including “Haruhi Suzumiya”, “K-ON!”, and “Violet Evergarden”. It was a delightful experience, and I couldn't resist picking up a few souvenirs for Sofia, knowing how much she enjoys these shows. I remember when Pieter and I first introduced Sofia to Studio Ghibli films; her eyes lit up in such a way that solidified my love for sharing my passions with her.


Explore Kyoto Station ASTY Kyoto Kyoani Goods Store for exclusive anime merchandise and a taste of Japan's vibrant pop culture.

For dinner, I had a reservation at Saishuan Shiraki, an izakaya known for its vegan-friendly options. As someone who tries to incorporate more plant-based meals into my diet, I was eager to try their cuisine. The restaurant was small and intimate, with a cozy atmosphere. The owner was incredibly welcoming, and she prepared a series of dishes that were both creative and delicious. I was particularly impressed by the way she used local Kyoto vegetables to create such flavorful and satisfying meals.


Discover the authentic flavors of Japan at Saishuan Shiraki - a premier izakaya experience in the heart of Kyoto.

As I walked back to The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Kyoto, I thought about tomorrow's itinerary. I plan to visit Heian Shrine, Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, and Murinan Garden. I'm also looking forward to trying Goichi Pizza for breakfast, Kakyo for lunch, and Teppanyaki Minami for dinner. I might even stop by The Common One Bar Kyoto for a drink in the evening.


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.

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel. It's not just about seeing new places; it's about experiencing new things, meeting new people, and learning more about myself. Kyoto has a way of slowing you down, of encouraging you to appreciate the present moment. It's a city that nourishes the soul, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to spend these days here.

I’m also looking forward to the events happening around Kyoto. I read that the Kyoto National Museum is holding an exhibition featuring the snake in Japanese art in celebration of the Year of the Snake. Perhaps I’ll visit to learn more about the zodiac animal. There’s also the Toka Ebisu Festival at the Kyoto Ebisu Shrine, which celebrates Ebisu, the god of prosperity. It seems like there’s always something happening in this vibrant city!

Back at the hotel, I journaled about my day, capturing the essence of each moment. As I reflect on my adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and contentment. Tomorrow brings new adventures, and I can’t wait to see what Kyoto has in store for me.

Kyoto, you have captured my heart once again. Until tomorrow…