Solo Cultural Immersion in Historic Kyoto

First Day Wanderings: Imperial Majesty and Garden Serenity

After a long journey from Montreal, with a necessary stopover, I finally arrived in Kyoto. The anticipation had been building for months, and stepping onto Japanese soil felt like entering a different world. I’ve always been drawn to the serenity and history of this city, a stark contrast to the familiar bustle of Montreal. My journey began today, and I couldn't wait to share my experiences.

My first day in Kyoto was nothing short of magical. After settling into the Candeo Hotels Kyoto Karasuma Rokkaku, I set out to explore the city's Imperial heart. The weather in early March is still a bit chilly, requiring a good coat, but the clear skies hinted at the warmer days to come. I made sure to pack an umbrella before leaving the hotel, remembering how much I regretted forgetting one on past trips. I decided to treat myself to a traditional Japanese breakfast at Kizahashi, located in The Thousand Kyoto hotel near the Kyoto Station. The meal was a delicate dance of flavors, setting a perfect tone for the day.


Experience Kyoto's charm with comfort and convenience at Candeo Hotels Kyoto Karasuma Rokkaku, the perfect base for your adventures.

In Kyoto, every stone has a story to tell, and every garden whispers secrets of the past.

The first stop was the Kyoto Imperial Palace, a place that had captured my imagination ever since I began researching this trip. The palace, once home to Japan's Imperial Family until 1868, is now open to the public, allowing visitors to wander through its grounds and admire the traditional architecture. As a historical archivist, I was in awe of the meticulous preservation of the buildings, each rebuilt in 1855 after centuries of fires and relocations. Walking through the long walls, I imagined the emperors of old holding court and conducting ceremonies in the Shishinden (Hall for State Ceremonies). Although the buildings themselves are not accessible, simply being in their presence was a profound experience.


Explore the historical elegance and natural beauty of Kyoto Imperial Palace, a cultural landmark reflecting Japan's royal history.

The palace grounds also include two stunning gardens: the Pond Garden and the Inner Garden. I spent a considerable amount of time in the Pond Garden, admiring the serene pond and the carefully placed stones. The Inner Garden, with its collection of stone lanterns donated by feudal lords, offered a more intimate and contemplative atmosphere. It was easy to lose myself in the beauty and tranquility of these spaces, a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. I could almost picture Sophie and Émile enjoying the peaceful scenery alongside me, though I knew they would have appreciated it in their own ways. Émile would have loved running around the open spaces, while Sophie would have been captivated by the intricate details of the gardens' design.

Next on the itinerary was the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, which surrounds the Imperial Palace. This vast park, once the estate of court nobles, is now a public space where locals and tourists alike can relax and enjoy nature. In March, the garden is just beginning to awaken from its winter slumber, with plum blossoms still in bloom and the early cherry blossoms starting to make an appearance. I strolled along the gravel paths, taking in the sights and sounds of the garden. The plum blossoms offered a sweet fragrance, and I even spotted some early-blooming weeping cherry trees, their delicate pink flowers a promise of the spring to come. I learned that the weeping cherry trees are some of the first to bloom, usually starting in mid-March. It was a delight to witness these early signs of spring, a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the beauty of the changing seasons.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a historic park offering stunning landscapes and a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.

For lunch, I ventured to Kyoto cuisine Teramachi Yoshikura, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Kyoto cuisine. The restaurant specializes in set meals made with fresh fish and seasonal local vegetables. One of the highlights of the lunch menu is the Obanzai All-You-Can-Eat option, featuring six to seven kinds of Obanzai that pair perfectly with rice. I sampled a variety of dishes, including pumpkin, taro root, and hijiki seaweed, each one bursting with flavor and showcasing the region's culinary traditions. The staff were incredibly welcoming, and despite my limited Japanese, we managed to communicate with the help of Google Translate. It was a truly enjoyable and satisfying meal.


Discover authentic Kyoto cuisine at Teramachi Yoshikura – where traditional flavors meet modern creativity in an unforgettable dining experience.

After lunch, I decided to do some shopping at the Daimaru Kyoto Store. This department store is a Kyoto institution, offering a wide range of goods from high-end fashion to local crafts. I explored the various floors, admiring the displays of kimonos, ceramics, and other traditional Japanese items. I even picked up a few souvenirs for Sophie and Émile, knowing they would appreciate a taste of Kyoto's culture. Daimaru prides itself on good service, and I certainly experienced that firsthand. I was also tempted by the food floor but decided to resist, knowing I had a dinner reservation later in the evening.


Explore the heart of Kyoto shopping at Daimaru Kyoto Store, where tradition meets modernity in a vibrant department store experience.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Gion, Kyoto's geisha district, for dinner at Gion Nanba. This Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its kaiseki cuisine, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner. The restaurant is tucked away in a narrow alley, adding to its intimate and exclusive atmosphere. The kaiseki experience was a culinary journey, with each dish carefully crafted and beautifully presented. The chef and staff were incredibly friendly, explaining each dish in detail and making me feel welcome. The flavors were subtle and complex, showcasing the best of Kyoto's seasonal ingredients. It was a truly memorable dining experience and a perfect way to end my first day in Kyoto.


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

Before heading back to the hotel, I took a leisurely stroll through Gion, soaking in the atmosphere of this historic district. The streets were quiet, and the traditional wooden buildings glowed softly in the lamplight. I imagined geishas gliding through these streets in centuries past, their elegant figures adding to the mystique of the area. It was a fitting end to a day filled with history, culture, and culinary delights.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I had already experienced in just a few short hours. From the grandeur of the Imperial Palace to the tranquility of the Gyoen National Garden, from the delicious flavors of Kyoto cuisine to the elegance of Gion, I had immersed myself in the city's rich tapestry. I knew that the next eleven days would be filled with even more adventures, and I couldn't wait to see what Kyoto had in store for me. Tomorrow, I plan to visit Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Ryoan-ji Temple, known for its Zen garden, and perhaps find a cozy bar like L'Escamoteur for a nightcap. I'm also looking forward to trying out some new restaurants, including AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO for lunch and Jiki Miyazawa for dinner. For now, though, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of exploration.

I am already feeling so grateful for this opportunity to explore Kyoto on my own. It’s a chance to reconnect with my love for history and culture, a passion that I hope to share with Sophie and Émile someday. Until then, I’ll continue to document my journey and share my experiences with all of you. Stay tuned for more tales from Kyoto!