Carmen's Solo Adventure Through the Historical Wonders of Kyoto

Whispers of Old Kyoto

Today was a day of stepping back in time, a journey through the heart of Kyoto's historical soul. It was a day filled with the echoes of ancient traditions and the vibrant pulse of modern life intertwining seamlessly. From the serene heights of a celebrated temple to the charming, winding streets below, every moment felt like a page torn from a history book, brought to life before my very eyes.



My day began with a hearty breakfast at Yasakadori Enraku. The restaurant was tucked away, exuding the atmosphere of a traditional Kyoto townhouse. I savored the delicate dashi flavors, a perfect start to fuel my explorations. As I enjoyed my meal, I couldn't help but reflect on how different this was from my usual breakfast in Bonn. It's these moments of cultural immersion that truly make traveling worthwhile.


Experience the artistry of Kaiseki dining at Yasakadori Enraku in Kyoto – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

With a satisfied stomach, I made my way to Kiyomizu-dera. The temple was founded in 780, and its history is palpable. Even in February, the air was crisp and invigorating. The temple was teeming with both locals and tourists. The climb up the hill was a bit of a workout, but the anticipation of seeing Kiyomizu-dera kept my spirits high. I paused occasionally, catching my breath and taking in the views of Kyoto unfolding beneath me. February in Kyoto brings an average temperature of around 5°C (41°F), so I was glad I had layered up. The clear skies made for a bright, sunny day, perfect for exploring.


Experience the serene beauty and spiritual essence of Kiyomizu-dera, an iconic Buddhist temple in Kyoto, renowned for its stunning architecture and breathtaking views.

Finally, I reached the entrance of Kiyomizu-dera. The monumental red and white Niomon Gate stood proudly, flanked by imposing statues of Buddhist guardian kings. Passing through the gate felt like stepping into another world. The temple grounds were expansive, with various halls, pagodas, and shrines scattered throughout. I made my way towards the main hall, eager to see the famous wooden stage that juts out from the hillside.

The view from the wooden stage was breathtaking. Kyoto stretched out before me, a tapestry of traditional buildings and modern structures nestled amidst the rolling hills. I could see the vibrant colors of the city, the lush greenery of the surrounding forests, and the distant mountains providing a stunning backdrop. It was a panoramic vista that truly captured the essence of Kyoto's beauty.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

I spent some time exploring the main hall, admiring the intricate architecture and the serene atmosphere. The temple is dedicated to the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion. I lit a stick of incense and offered a silent prayer, hoping to absorb some of the temple's peaceful energy. The craftsmanship of the buildings was incredible. The main hall and stage were constructed without the use of nails, a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the artisans who built them.

Behind the main hall, I discovered Jishu Shrine, a charming little shrine dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking. It was adorned with ema, wooden plaques with prayers and wishes written on them. I watched as young couples giggled and nervously attempted to walk between two stones, said to bring good luck in love. Even though I'm happily married to Hans, I couldn't resist trying my luck. I closed my eyes, took a deep breath, and managed to navigate the distance without bumping into anything. Perhaps it's a sign that our love will continue to flourish.

Before leaving Kiyomizu-dera, I made my way to the Otowa Waterfall, located at the base of the main hall. The waterfall's waters are divided into three separate streams, each said to have a different benefit: longevity, success at school, and a fortunate love life. I watched as visitors lined up to drink from the streams, using cups attached to long poles. I decided to try my luck with the longevity stream, hoping to add a few more years to my life. The water was cold and refreshing, with a slightly metallic taste. Whether it actually works or not, it was a fun and memorable experience.

As I descended from Kiyomizu-dera, I found myself wandering through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, two charming, sloping streets lined with traditional wooden shops, tea houses, and restaurants. These streets date back to the early days of Kyoto's imperial history, and they have been beautifully preserved to showcase the neighborhood's former way of life. The atmosphere was enchanting, with the gentle sounds of traditional music drifting from the shops and the aroma of freshly brewed tea filling the air.


Discover the historic allure of Sannenzaka, a traditional street in Kyoto, filled with wooden architecture, unique shops, and stunning views of Kiyomizu-dera Temple.


Experience Ninenzaka's historical charm with traditional wooden structures, vibrant shops, and serene tea houses in the heart of Kyoto.

I strolled along the cobbled lanes, admiring the architecture and browsing the various shops. Many of them sold local crafts and souvenirs, such as ceramics, chopsticks, paper crafts, and fabrics. I picked up a few small gifts for Sofia and Hans, wanting to bring a piece of Kyoto back home to them. The streets were bustling with activity, but there was still a sense of tranquility and serenity that permeated the air. It was as if time had stood still in this little corner of Kyoto.

For lunch, I stopped at Gion Nanba, a Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurant tucked away in a narrow alley. The restaurant offered a multi-course meal of creative and beautifully presented Japanese dishes, made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Each dish was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly flavorful. The service was impeccable, with the staff explaining each dish in detail and ensuring that I had everything I needed. It was a truly memorable dining experience, a perfect example of Kyoto's culinary excellence.


Discover authentic kaiseki cuisine at Gion Nanba, where tradition meets taste in Kyoto's historic Gion district.

As evening approached, I decided to treat myself to dinner at THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO Restaurant. This restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored traditional building, once the residence of a renowned Japanese painter. The atmosphere was elegant and refined, with a touch of old-world charm. I opted for the vegan set menu, eager to sample the restaurant's innovative take on Italian cuisine using seasonal Kyoto ingredients. The meal was exceptional, each dish a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The service was attentive and gracious, making me feel like a pampered guest. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Kyoto's historical wonders.


Discover the perfect blend of Italian culinary artistry and traditional Japanese ambiance at The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto.

To cap off the evening, I ventured to L'Escamoteur, a unique bar known for its French bartender and magical cocktails. The bar was small and intimate, with a cozy atmosphere that made me feel right at home. The bartender was a true showman, conjuring up elaborate cocktails with a flourish and a smile. I ordered a signature drink, a concoction of exotic fruits and spices that tasted like a liquid dream. As I sipped my cocktail, I reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of Kyoto. The bar had a lively but relaxed atmosphere, a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.


Discover L'Escamoteur, Kyoto's enchanting cocktail bar where artistry meets mixology in a whimsical atmosphere. Unforgettable drinks await!

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Arashiyama, including the Bamboo Forest and Tenryu-ji Temple. I'm excited to see more of Kyoto's natural beauty and cultural treasures. I'll be sure to pack my comfortable walking shoes and my camera, ready to capture every moment of the adventure.

Kyoto has truly captured my heart. It's a city where history and modernity coexist in perfect harmony, where ancient traditions are cherished and celebrated, and where the beauty of nature is always within reach. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.