Carmen's Solo Adventure Through the Historical Wonders of Kyoto

Finding Peace in Kyoto's Ancient Echoes

Today was a day of deep reflection and profound beauty as I journeyed through some of Kyoto's most revered temples. Each site offered a unique glimpse into the spiritual and artistic heritage of this ancient city, leaving me with a sense of peace and a renewed appreciation for Japanese culture. The crisp February air added a touch of serenity to the experience, making it a perfect day for contemplation and exploration.

My day began with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Nakamura. The delicate flavors and artful presentation were a delightful start to what promised to be a day filled with cultural immersion. Sipping green tea while enjoying the meticulously prepared dishes, I felt a sense of calm wash over me, preparing me for the spiritual journey ahead.


Experience the elegance of kaiseki at Nakamura in Kyoto—a fine dining destination celebrating seasonal Japanese cuisine.

My first stop was the Sanjusangendo Temple. What an awe-inspiring experience! Stepping into the temple hall, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale of the 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The craftsmanship and attention to detail were simply breathtaking. Each statue, with its unique expression and posture, seemed to tell a story of compassion and enlightenment. The sheer number of statues was overwhelming, creating a powerful sense of collective spirituality. I learned that the temple was founded in 1164 and rebuilt in the 13th century after a fire. The main hall, stretching 120 meters, is Japan's longest wooden structure, a testament to the architectural prowess of the time. It was fascinating to discover that the name Sanjusangendo, meaning '33 intervals,' refers to the number of spaces between the building's support columns, a traditional way of measuring a building's size. I spent a long time simply walking along the rows of statues, taking in the serene atmosphere and marveling at the artistry. It was a truly humbling experience to be in the presence of such devotion and craftsmanship.


Explore the serene Sanjusangendo Temple, home to 1001 captivating Kannon statues and a peaceful retreat in the heart of Kyoto.

The beauty and tranquility of Kyoto's temples offer a sanctuary for the soul, a place to reflect and find peace amidst the bustle of modern life.

Next on my itinerary was Higashiyama Jisho-ji, also known as Ginkaku-ji or the Silver Pavilion. This Zen Buddhist temple, nestled in the Higashiyama district, offered a different kind of beauty – one of understated elegance and serene simplicity. Built in 1482 by shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa as a retirement villa, it was later converted into a temple after his death. Although it's called the Silver Pavilion, it was never actually covered in silver. Legend has it that Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa intended to cover the pavilion with silver leaf in imitation of the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) built by his grandfather. However, no silver was ever applied, yet the name stuck. I was captivated by the meticulously maintained moss garden and the dry sand garden, known as the 'Sea of Silver Sand.' The contrast between the lush greenery and the stark white sand created a sense of harmony and balance. I spent some time meditating by the pond, listening to the gentle sounds of nature and feeling the peace that permeates this sacred space. It was interesting to learn that Ginkaku-ji was designed to embody Yoshimasa's ideal aesthetics of 'wabi-sabi,' characterized by the beauty of simplicity and imperfection. This is something I can relate to, as I often find beauty in the imperfect and the unadorned. The gardens of Ginkaku-ji are designed to replicate famous scenes from nature and Japanese literature. The Sea of Silvery Sand (Ginsha-nada) replicates the outline of the West Lake in China. The sand is meticulously raked so that in moonlight its ridges appear as ripples in water. Next to the sea of sand is a two-meter high mound which is officially a small lunar viewing platform (Kogetsudai).


Discover the serene beauty of Higashiyama Jisho-ji, a historic Buddhist temple and natural oasis in Kyoto, Japan.

My final temple visit of the day was to Nanzen-ji, one of the most important Zen temples in Japan. As the head temple of one of the schools within the Rinzai sect of Japanese Zen Buddhism, Nanzen-ji exudes an air of authority and spiritual significance. The temple's history dates back to the mid-13th century when Emperor Kameyama built his retirement villa at the temple's present location and later converted it into a Zen temple. The Sanmon entrance gate was constructed in 1628 by the ruling Tokugawa clan for soldiers who died in the siege of Osaka Castle in 1615. I climbed to the top of the gate's balcony, where the view extended across the city. The temple grounds are expansive, and I enjoyed wandering through the various subtemples and gardens. One of the most striking features of Nanzen-ji is the large brick aqueduct that passes through the temple grounds. Built during the Meiji Period (1868-1912), the aqueduct is part of a canal system that was constructed to carry water and goods between Kyoto and Lake Biwa. It was quite an odd sight to see such a modern structure within the serene temple complex. I also visited Nanzen-in Temple, one of Nanzen-ji's subtemples, which is located just behind the aqueduct. It includes a mausoleum of the emperor, a temple hall and a garden centered around a pond. The Hojo garden, with rocks that are said to resemble tigers and cubs crossing through water, was another highlight.


Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Nanzen-ji Temple, a stunning Buddhist sanctuary nestled in the heart of Kyoto's natural landscape.

After a full day of temple hopping, I decided to indulge in some retail therapy at Takashimaya Kyoto S.C. I was in search of unique souvenirs and perhaps a new addition to my wardrobe. The department store offered a wide array of goods, from traditional crafts to high-end fashion. I was particularly drawn to the T8 floor, which features themed specialty stores. I spent a pleasant hour browsing through the various shops, admiring the artistry and craftsmanship on display. I ended up purchasing a beautiful silk scarf with a traditional Kyoto design, a perfect memento of my trip.


Explore Takashimaya Kyoto S.C. for an unforgettable shopping experience, blending tradition and modernity in the heart of Kyoto.

For lunch, I savored a delightful vegetarian meal at Saishuan Shiraki. The restaurant, known for its vegan and vegetarian options, offered a separate menu filled with imaginative dishes. The charismatic hostess made the experience even more enjoyable. The cozy atmosphere and the delicious food made it a perfect midday retreat.


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

As the day drew to a close, I treated myself to a traditional kaiseki dinner at Hanasaki. This multi-course meal, a culinary art form in itself, was a perfect way to end my day of cultural immersion. Each dish was a miniature work of art, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients and prepared with meticulous care. The delicate flavors and beautiful presentation were a feast for the senses. The restaurant itself was housed in a renovated Kyoto townhouse, adding to the ambiance and creating a truly memorable dining experience. They prepared Tofu, Namafu(Gluten cake), Yuba(Tofu skin), Kyoyasai(tradittional kyoto vejitavle)and Hamo(pike conger).


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

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I had experienced and learned. From the awe-inspiring statues of Sanjusangendo to the serene gardens of Ginkaku-ji and Nanzen-ji, each site had left a lasting impression. The temples of Kyoto are not just historical landmarks; they are living embodiments of Japanese culture and spirituality. They offer a sanctuary for the soul, a place to reflect and find peace amidst the bustle of modern life. As I prepare for tomorrow's adventures, which include a visit to Toji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge and the Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, I am filled with a sense of anticipation and gratitude. I am also looking forward to relaxing at the Bar Fishbowl in the evening. Kyoto continues to surprise and delight me, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. I am also grateful that I made the decision to come on this trip on my own, as it has allowed me to fully immerse myself in the local culture.

I must remember to buy a universal travel adapter though. It would make my life so much easier.