Cultural Immersion in Kyoto: A Journey with Friends

A Day of Reflection in Kyoto

Today was a day of gentle exploration, a serene pause in our Kyoto adventure. It was a day to soak in the city's spiritual essence, wandering through historical sites and finding moments of quiet contemplation. I set out with my friends, eager to experience the harmony that Kyoto so effortlessly exudes.



Our first stop was the magnificent Heian Shrine. The vibrant vermilion colours popped against the clear blue sky, creating a striking visual. The sheer scale of the *torii* gate was breathtaking; I couldn't help but snap a few photos, trying to capture its grandeur. As we stepped inside, the expansive courtyard provided a sense of calm. It was easy to imagine the emperors of old strolling through these grounds. The architecture, reminiscent of the Heian period, transported me back in time, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage. We spent some time wandering through the gardens, a tranquil oasis with serene ponds, meticulously manicured landscapes, and those iconic, graceful weeping cherry trees. Though most of the cherry blossoms are gone now, a few late bloomers still added a touch of pink to the scenery. It was a perfect start to a day dedicated to peace and reflection. I even managed to find a quiet spot to jot down some thoughts in my travel journal – something I really should have packed an umbrella for, as the sky was a little overcast and the weather report mentioned a chance of showers later in the day.


Explore Heian Shrine in Kyoto for a serene experience of stunning gardens, rich history, and traditional Japanese architecture.



From Heian Shrine, we ventured towards the famed Philosopher's Path. The path, a stone-paved walkway alongside a canal, offered a tranquil stroll amidst lush greenery. Lined with cherry trees, it must be absolutely magical during peak bloom, but even now, in late April, the path held a serene beauty. The gentle sound of the water flowing alongside us was soothing, creating a meditative atmosphere. As we walked, we passed small boutiques, quaint cafes, and tiny shrines tucked away amidst the foliage. It was easy to see why this path was named after a philosopher – it was a place for contemplation and introspection. I couldn't help but think about my own life back in Stratford, the quiet routine of the library, and the comforting presence of David and Thandiwe. It's moments like these, away from the familiar, that make me appreciate the simple joys of home even more. We stopped at a small teahouse along the way, savoring matcha and traditional sweets, a delightful interlude in our peaceful walk.


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

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quietest moments, in the gentle rustling of leaves and the soft murmur of flowing water.

Our final destination for the day was Eikandō Temple, nestled near the end of the Philosopher's Path. This temple, with its hillside construction and interconnected wooden corridors, was a delight to explore. The Tahōtō Pagoda offered panoramic views of Kyoto, a breathtaking vista that stretched across the city. The temple's unique Amida Buddha statue, with its head turned backwards, was particularly intriguing. Legend has it that the Buddha turned his head to look back at a disciple who was falling behind, a gesture of compassion and encouragement. The gardens at Eikandō Temple were equally enchanting, with moss-covered stone paths, serene ponds, and meticulously arranged rock formations. The temple exuded a sense of history and tranquility, a perfect ending to our day of spiritual exploration. I took a moment to sit by the pond, listening to the gentle sounds of nature, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such beauty and peace.


Discover the serene beauty of Eikandō Temple in Kyoto, a historic Buddhist site renowned for its stunning gardens and tranquil atmosphere.




Before heading back to The Screen, we stopped by Teppan Tavern Tenamonya for breakfast. It was a small, cozy place, run by a friendly couple. I was surprised to find that they didn't have many vegetarian options available on the menu so I had to order meat. The food was delicious and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. It was a great way to start our day. For lunch, we chose Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store. I followed a group of people through a tiny walkway that led to this restaurant. The tonkatsu was perfectly crispy and juicy, and the sauce was homemade with a unique blend of red wine and fruit chutney. It was a delicious and satisfying meal.


Experience authentic teppanyaki at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, Kyoto's premier destination for Japanese cuisine in a lively izakaya setting.


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




As evening approached, we decided to indulge in a traditional Kyoto dinner at Kyoto cuisine Hanasaki Nishikiten. This restaurant, tucked away near Nishiki Market, offered a refined culinary experience. Each dish was a work of art, showcasing the delicate flavors of seasonal ingredients. The ambiance was elegant and serene, providing a perfect setting for a memorable meal. The service was impeccable, with the staff explaining each course in detail. It was a true celebration of Japanese cuisine.


Discover authentic Kyoto cuisine at Hanasaki Nishikiten—where tradition meets culinary artistry in every exquisite dish.




To cap off the day, we ventured to The Roots of all evil, a gin bar near Kyoto Station. The bar had over 100 different types of craft gin from all across Japan, and around the world. I ordered the signature Roots cocktail, a flavorful burst of ginger and spices. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day's experiences. The bar had a cozy atmosphere and the bartender was friendly and knowledgeable. The bar had a cozy atmosphere, with a stylish interior inspired by the roots drawing water from the earth. I found myself chatting with some other travelers, sharing stories and laughter. It was a fitting end to a day filled with cultural immersion and personal reflection.


Discover a vibrant bar in Kyoto offering a unique blend of cocktails and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.




Today was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about finding moments of peace and connection within ourselves. As I prepare for our trip to Osaka tomorrow – Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and the Umeda Sky Building are on the agenda – I carry with me the tranquility of Kyoto's temples and gardens, a sense of calm that will guide me through the adventures to come. I'm particularly excited about trying Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki for breakfast, a culinary adventure I've been looking forward to. Goodnight from Kyoto!