Solo Cultural Immersion in Kyoto

Golden Shimmers and Silent Stones

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey from dazzling spectacle to quiet contemplation. Kyoto, even in the heart of winter, has a way of captivating the soul with its serene beauty and profound history. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of the Park Hotel Kyoto, I ventured out, eager to discover more of what this ancient city has to offer. I was especially excited to visit Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, a sight I'd dreamt of seeing for years.


Discover the charm of Kyoto at Park Hotel Kyoto, a cozy accommodation with modern amenities and easy access to top attractions. Perfect for travelers seeking comfort and culture.

The morning air was crisp, a typical February chill that nipped at my cheeks as I made my way towards Kinkaku-ji. Despite the cold, the sky was a brilliant blue, promising a day of clear views. As I approached the temple, the first glimpse of the Golden Pavilion took my breath away. It truly lived up to its name, shimmering in the sunlight, its golden reflection dancing on the surface of the Mirror Pond. It felt like stepping into a postcard, a perfect scene of tranquility and opulence.


Explore Kinkaku-ji, the breathtaking Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, where history and nature blend beautifully in a tranquil setting.

Kinkaku-ji, originally built as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu in the late 14th century, was transformed into a Zen temple after his death. The history of this place is fascinating, especially learning that the pavilion has been rebuilt several times, most recently in 1955 after being burned down by a monk in 1950. The fact that it was rebuilt so faithfully speaks volumes about the importance of this site to the Japanese people. Each floor represents a different architectural style, blending Shinden, Samurai, and Zen temple design elements.

I spent a good hour simply wandering the grounds, taking in the views from every angle. The gardens surrounding the pavilion are meticulously maintained, with carefully placed stones and sculpted trees adding to the sense of harmony and balance. I even tossed a coin (or two!) at one of the statues for good luck, hoping it would bring some positive energy my way. Before leaving, I paused at the Sekkatei Teahouse, a charming structure dating back to the Edo period, and imagined what it must have been like to sip tea here centuries ago, watching the same golden reflections on the pond.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of moments, a quiet observation of beauty that stills the mind and nourishes the soul.

From the dazzling spectacle of Kinkaku-ji, I journeyed to the serene depths of Ryōan-ji, a temple famed for its enigmatic Zen garden. The contrast between the two temples was striking, yet both offered a unique form of spiritual nourishment. As I walked through the temple grounds, the hustle and bustle of Kyoto seemed to fade away, replaced by a sense of profound stillness. I was definitely grateful for my comfortable walking shoes today!


Discover the tranquility of Ryōan-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, featuring a world-famous rock garden and serene landscapes that inspire peace and reflection.

Ryōan-ji's rock garden is a masterpiece of minimalist design, consisting of fifteen rocks arranged in small groups on a bed of white gravel, surrounded by low earthen walls. The origins and meaning of the garden remain shrouded in mystery, with countless theories attempting to decipher its symbolism. Some believe it represents islands in a sea, others a tiger carrying cubs across a pond, while still others see it as an abstract expression of Zen philosophy. What's particularly interesting is that from any vantage point, at least one of the rocks is always hidden from view, adding to the garden's mystique.

I sat on the wooden veranda of the Hojo, the head priest's former residence, and gazed at the garden, trying to empty my mind and simply be present in the moment. It was a challenge, I must admit. My mind kept wandering, flitting from one thought to another like a hummingbird in a flower garden. But gradually, as I focused on the patterns in the gravel and the subtle textures of the rocks, a sense of calm began to settle over me. It was as if the garden was inviting me to slow down, to let go of my anxieties and simply appreciate the beauty of the present moment. I thought about Hans and Saoirse back in Berlin, and felt a pang of homesickness. I miss our little family adventures, but I also know that this solo journey is something I need to do for myself right now.

The garden is designed to be viewed from the Hojo. Besides the stone garden, the Hojo features some paintings on the sliding doors, and a couple of smaller gardens on the rear side of the building. In one of the gardens there is a round stone trough that cleverly incorporates its square water basin into a Zen inscription, which I found particularly interesting.

Leaving the tranquility of Ryōan-ji, I decided to indulge in some of Kyoto's culinary delights. For lunch, I ventured to Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki & Teppan-yaki Kamehameha. It was a bit of a change of pace from the serene temples, but I was eager to try this local favorite. I managed to snag a spot at the counter – I had to book in advance because the place is so popular! – and watched as the chef skillfully prepared my okonomiyaki, layering the ingredients with precision and flair. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, with locals and tourists alike chatting and laughing as they enjoyed their meals. The okonomiyaki itself was delicious, a savory pancake filled with noodles, vegetables, and meat, topped with a tangy sauce and crispy edges. It was the perfect comfort food on a chilly day, and the friendly atmosphere made it even more enjoyable.


Discover authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Kamehameha, Kyoto's premier destination for delicious Japanese cuisine.

For dinner, I opted for something completely different and visited Chihana, a Kaiseki restaurant. The restaurant is known for Itamae Kappo cuisine. The chef prepares the food right in front of you at the counter. I was seated at the counter, which only had eight seats. It has been awarded Michelin stars for nine consecutive years, and I was excited to experience this culinary institution. The meal was a work of art, each dish meticulously crafted with seasonal ingredients and presented with exquisite attention to detail. From the delicate sashimi to the flavorful grilled fish and the fragrant rice, every bite was a symphony of tastes and textures. The service was impeccable, the staff attentive and knowledgeable, guiding me through each course with grace and expertise. It was an experience that engaged all the senses, a true celebration of Japanese cuisine and hospitality. Apparently literary giants such as Yasunari Kawabata, Yukio Mishima, and Hideo Kobayashi have all dined here, which is pretty amazing.


Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Chihana in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district - where tradition meets culinary artistry.

Before heading back to the hotel, I decided to check out Kyoto Star Bar for a nightcap. This cozy bar is known for its expertly crafted cocktails and intimate atmosphere. I sipped on a Ki No Bi Negroni, enjoying the smooth, complex flavors as I reflected on the day's adventures. The bartender was friendly and engaging, sharing stories about Kyoto's nightlife and recommending other hidden gems to explore. It was the perfect way to end a day of contrasts, a moment of quiet contemplation before returning to the comfort of my hotel room.


Discover the perfect blend of cocktails and coffee at Kyoto Star Bar, a stylish retreat in the heart of Kyoto's vibrant nightlife.

As I walked back to the Park Hotel Kyoto, the city was quiet and still, the only sound the gentle hum of traffic in the distance. I felt a sense of deep contentment, a feeling of having truly connected with Kyoto's soul. From the golden shimmer of Kinkaku-ji to the silent stones of Ryōan-ji, from the savory delights of okonomiyaki to the exquisite artistry of kaiseki cuisine, today had been a journey of discovery, a testament to the enduring beauty and spiritual richness of this ancient city. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings as I plan to explore the Philosopher's Path and Nanzen-ji temple!

I'm also looking forward to finding that Kyoto Station ASTY Kyoto Kyoani Goods Store tomorrow. Saoirse would love that!