Solo Cultural Immersion in Historic Kyoto

Finding Peace on the Philosopher's Path

Today was a day of quiet contemplation and natural beauty here in Kyoto. I decided to explore two of the city's most serene locations, seeking a deeper connection with the spiritual heart of Japan. It was a journey that nourished my soul and provided a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

My day began with breakfast at Hyoto Shijo Karasuma. I opted for the buffet, eager to try some local flavors before setting off on my explorations. I sampled Kyoto oden and three-color nyumen noodles, which were delicious. It was a hearty start to what promised to be a day filled with walking and discovery.

First on the agenda was the famed Philosopher's Path. As I set out, I couldn't help but reflect on how much I appreciate these solo journeys. Sophie and Émile are always in my heart, of course, but there's something uniquely rewarding about experiencing a place on my own terms, at my own pace. I made sure to wear comfortable shoes, remembering my mistake from a few days ago.

The Philosopher's Path is a pedestrian route that follows a canal in Kyoto's Higashiyama district, and it's named after the philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who apparently used to meditate along this very path. The walk itself is about 2 kilometers long, and it connects Ginkaku-ji (the Silver Pavilion) to Nanzen-ji Temple.

As I started my walk, I was immediately struck by the tranquility of the surroundings. The canal gently trickled alongside the path, and the sounds of the city seemed to fade away. While the cherry blossoms weren't in full bloom yet – according to the forecasts, peak bloom is expected closer to the end of March or early April – there were hints of pink in the budding trees, promising a spectacular display in the coming weeks.

Even without the full bloom, the path was beautiful. Moss-covered stones lined the canal, and the air was fresh and clean. I passed several small temples and shrines along the way, each with its own unique charm. I stopped at one to light a candle and offer a prayer for my family back in Montreal.

The path wasn't overly crowded, which allowed for a peaceful experience. I saw a few other tourists, but mostly locals enjoying a quiet stroll. I even spotted an artist sitting by the canal, sketching the scenery. It was the kind of scene that made me feel truly immersed in the local culture.

What a magnificent view!

After about an hour of walking and contemplation, I arrived at the southern end of the Philosopher's Path, where it meets Nanzen-ji Temple.


Explore the Philosopher's Path, a serene journey through nature and philosophy in Kyoto, lined with cherry blossoms and historic temples.

Nanzen-ji Temple is one of Kyoto's most important Zen temples. It was originally built as an imperial villa for Emperor Kameyama in the 13th century, but it was later converted into a temple. The temple complex is vast and impressive, with several sub-temples, gardens, and historical structures to explore.

One of the first things that caught my eye was the Sanmon Gate, a massive wooden structure that serves as the main entrance to the temple. I climbed the stairs to the second-floor balcony, which offered a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The gate itself is an impressive structure, one of the largest in Japan, and it contains three doorways that, in Buddhism, symbolize gateways toward enlightenment.

As I wandered through the temple grounds, I was struck by the sense of history and tradition. The buildings were old and weathered, but they were also beautifully maintained. I could almost feel the presence of the monks and emperors who had walked these paths before me.

One of the most unique features of Nanzen-ji is the Suirokaku Aqueduct, a brick structure that was built in the late 19th century to carry water from Lake Biwa to Kyoto. The aqueduct is a fascinating blend of Eastern and Western architecture, and it's a popular spot for photos.

I spent some time exploring the various sub-temples and gardens within the Nanzen-ji complex. Each one had its own distinct character and charm. I particularly enjoyed the Zen garden at Nanzen-in, which was designed to promote meditation and contemplation. Unfortunately, Nanzen-in is closed for roof repairs until around March 2025, but I was still able to appreciate it from the outside. The Chisen Kaiyu style garden is designed to be appreciated while walking around a central pond, offering a peaceful experience. I was able to visit Tenjuan, the most historic sub-temple within the Nanzenji complex. It was built as a temple to enshrine high-ranking monks.


Discover the tranquility of Nanzen-ji, a historic Buddhist temple complex in Kyoto, where spirituality meets stunning natural beauty.

By this point, I was starting to feel a bit hungry, so I decided to head to Arash's Kitchen for lunch. This restaurant serves Persian and Indian cuisine, and I was in the mood for something a little different. I ordered a lamb kebab with naan, and it was absolutely delicious. The flavors were rich and complex, and the portions were generous. I'm glad I chose this spot; it's always nice to find unexpected culinary gems during my travels.


Experience authentic Asian cuisine at Arash's Kitchen in Kyoto—a culinary delight for every traveler seeking unique flavors.

After lunch, I did a little shopping at Omiyage Kaido. It's always fun to browse the local shops and see what unique souvenirs I can find. I picked up a few small gifts for Sophie and Émile, wanting to bring them a little piece of Kyoto back home.


Discover Kyoto's rich culture and history at Omiyage Kaido, a delightful souvenir store offering traditional crafts and local delicacies.

For dinner, I had made a reservation at Chihana, a Michelin-starred restaurant that specializes in traditional Japanese cuisine. The restaurant is small and intimate, with only a few seats at the counter. The chef prepared a series of exquisite dishes, each one a work of art. The flavors were subtle and refined, and the presentation was impeccable. It was truly a culinary experience to remember.


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

The chef clearly takes pride in his craft, and the service was attentive without being intrusive. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and contemplation. I savored every bite, appreciating the skill and artistry that went into each dish. Chihana is known for its Itamae Kappo cuisine, where the chef cooks directly for the customers at the counter, and it's an experience that attracts many literary giants.

As I walked back to my hotel, I reflected on the day's experiences. The Philosopher's Path and Nanzen-ji Temple had provided a much-needed dose of tranquility and beauty. The lunch at Arash's Kitchen had been a delightful surprise, and the dinner at Chihana had been a culinary masterpiece.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Heian Shrine and the Shirakawa Canal, continuing my exploration of Kyoto's cultural and historical treasures. I might even stop by the Kyoto Star Bar for a nightcap. I'm looking forward to another day of discovery and adventure in this fascinating city.

Before heading to bed, I took some time to organize my photos and jot down my thoughts in my travel journal. It's important for me to document these experiences, not just for myself but also for Sophie and Émile. I want to be able to share these memories with them when I return home, and perhaps even inspire them to embark on their own adventures someday.

Kyoto continues to enchant me with its blend of ancient traditions and modern sensibilities. It's a city that rewards exploration and contemplation, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience it on my own terms. Until tomorrow, oyasumi nasai (good night) from Kyoto.


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