Cultural Immersion in Kyoto: A Journey with Friends

A Day of Reflection and Gold

Today was a day of profound reflection and dazzling sights here in Kyoto. Immersing myself in the tranquility of Zen gardens and the opulence of golden temples was an experience that resonated deeply with my soul. It's days like these that remind me why I embarked on this journey in the first place, to find beauty and meaning in the world, and to share it with all of you.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya. I had heard so much about this place, run by a delightful husband and wife team, and I was eager to try their Kyoto-style okonomiyaki. It was such a cozy spot, tucked away in the basement of a building. The food was incredible, and the atmosphere was so welcoming. It felt like being invited into someone's home.


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

After breakfast, we made our way to Ryoan-ji Temple. As someone who appreciates the simple beauty of my garden back in Stratford, I was particularly excited about this stop. The rock garden at Ryoan-ji is, without a doubt, one of the most famous Zen gardens in the world. Stepping into that space felt like entering another dimension. The garden consists of a rectangular plot of pebbles, meticulously raked, with fifteen rocks arranged in small groups on patches of moss. The low earthen walls surrounding the garden added to the sense of enclosure and contemplation.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Ryōan-ji in Kyoto, a renowned Zen temple known for its iconic rock garden and rich cultural heritage.

What struck me most about Ryoan-ji was the mystery surrounding its meaning. No one knows for sure what the garden is supposed to represent. Some say it's a tiger carrying cubs across a pond, others believe it symbolizes islands in a sea, and still others think it represents the abstract concept of infinity. I found myself drawn into the enigma, pondering the relationships between the rocks, the patterns in the gravel, and the space around them. It was an exercise in mindfulness, a reminder to be present in the moment and to find my own meaning in the world around me. It was easy to lose myself in contemplation.

The beauty of Ryoan-ji lies not in what it explicitly shows, but in what it implicitly invites: a journey into oneself.

After spending a good amount of time at the rock garden, we explored the rest of the temple grounds. The Hojo, the head priest's former residence, offered a glimpse into the temple's history and artistry. I was particularly drawn to a round stone trough with a square water basin, cleverly incorporating a Zen inscription. It was a testament to the ingenuity and attention to detail that permeates Japanese design.

Next on our itinerary was Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. If Ryoan-ji was about subtle contemplation, Kinkaku-ji was about dazzling splendor. As we approached the temple, the sight of the golden pavilion shimmering in the sunlight took my breath away. It was like something out of a fairy tale, a vision of opulence and beauty. The top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting the extravagant Kitayama culture that flourished in Kyoto during the time of Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu.


Explore Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion of Kyoto, a stunning Zen Buddhist temple adorned in gold and surrounded by tranquil gardens and reflective ponds.

Kinkaku-ji was originally built as Yoshimitsu's retirement villa in 1397. After his death, it was converted into a Zen temple, as he had wished. The temple has burned down several times throughout its history, including a recent fire in 1950 caused by a fanatic monk. The current structure was rebuilt in 1955, and it's a faithful replica of the original. Each floor of Kinkaku-ji represents a different architectural style. The first floor is built in the Shinden style, used for palace buildings during the Heian Period. The second floor is built in the Bukke style, used in samurai residences. And the third floor is built in the style of a Chinese Zen hall.

While we couldn't enter the pavilion itself, we were able to view it from across the pond. The reflection of the golden temple in the water created a stunning visual effect, as if the pavilion were floating between heaven and earth. The gardens surrounding Kinkaku-ji were also beautiful, with meticulously manicured trees, serene ponds, and carefully placed stones. We strolled through the grounds, taking in the beauty of the landscape and the sense of peace that permeated the air. It was a truly magical experience.

For lunch, we headed to Hanasaki, a restaurant known for its affordable Kaiseki meals. It was a delightful experience from start to finish. The restaurant itself was beautiful, with traditional Japanese decor and a serene atmosphere. The Kaiseki meal was a work of art, with each dish carefully prepared and presented. It was a wonderful way to savor the delicate flavors of Japanese cuisine. I particularly enjoyed the braised pork belly, which was tender and flavorful.


Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Hanasaki in Kyoto - where tradition meets artistry in every delicious dish.

Our final stop of the day was the Kyoto Imperial Palace. This historic site served as the residence of Japan's Imperial Family for over a thousand years, until 1868 when the capital was moved to Tokyo. Walking through the palace grounds, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and reverence. This was where emperors had lived, ruled, and shaped the course of Japanese history. The palace buildings, rebuilt in 1855 after a fire, incorporated architectural elements from different periods throughout the city's history. The most prestigious building is the Shishinden (Hall for State Ceremonies), where the Enthronement Ceremonies of Emperors Meiji, Taisho, and Showa were held.


Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Kyoto Imperial Palace, a royal landmark surrounded by stunning gardens and traditional architecture.

The palace grounds also included two beautiful gardens, the Pond Garden and the Inner Garden. We strolled through the gardens, admiring the seasonal flowers and trees and the serene atmosphere. It was a perfect way to end our day of exploration. We saw stone lanterns, a pond, and even a tea house. It was a great way to see how the emperors lived.

Before heading back to The Screen, we stopped by Kyoto Pub for a nightcap. I had heard about its inviting ambiance and impressive selection of drinks. It was the perfect way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing. I enjoyed a glass of local craft beer and chatted with some of the other patrons. It was a great way to experience Kyoto's nightlife and to connect with people from all over the world.


Experience Kyoto's vibrant nightlife at Kyoto Pub, where tradition meets modernity in a cozy setting filled with local flavors.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I'm struck by the contrast between the serene contemplation of Ryoan-ji and the dazzling splendor of Kinkaku-ji. Both temples, in their own way, offer a path to enlightenment and a deeper understanding of the world around us. And the Kyoto Imperial Palace offered a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Japan. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have experienced these wonders, and I look forward to sharing more of my journey with you.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Gion Corner, Heian Shrine, and Eikan-do Temple. I'm excited to explore more of Kyoto's cultural treasures and to share my experiences with you.

I must remember to buy an umbrella tomorrow as I forgot to pack one. It is always good to be prepared for unexpected showers!

Today was a good day, and I am grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Kyoto with my friends. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.