Solo Cultural Immersion in Historic Kyoto

Finding Peace in the Bamboo Forest

Today, I traded the bustling cityscapes for the tranquil embrace of Arashiyama. It was a day of serene exploration, a journey into the heart of Kyoto's natural beauty and spiritual heritage. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth, a welcome change from the urban aromas of the past few days. I was eager to immerse myself in the legendary bamboo grove and discover the secrets held within the ancient temples of this enchanting district.


Discover the serene beauty of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, a tranquil escape filled with towering bamboo groves and enchanting pathways.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Hanasaki. It was a traditional Kyoto-style meal, a colorful array of small dishes featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. The delicate flavors and artful presentation were a feast for both the palate and the eyes. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of walking and exploration.


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

Stepping into the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove was like entering another world. Sunlight filtered through the towering stalks, casting an ethereal glow on the path below. The air was cool and still, save for the gentle rustling of the bamboo leaves in the breeze. It was a symphony of nature, a soothing balm for the soul. I wandered deeper into the grove, feeling dwarfed by the sheer scale of the bamboo around me. The path wound its way through the forest, leading me further and further away from the outside world. I was completely alone, lost in the beauty and tranquility of this natural cathedral.

In the heart of Arashiyama, time seemed to slow, allowing for a deeper connection with nature and a profound sense of inner peace.

As I walked, I couldn't help but reflect on the words of Sophie, who always appreciates the beauty of nature. I remembered our hikes in the Laurentian Mountains, the way she would stop to admire the wildflowers or the intricate patterns of the bark on the trees. I missed her presence, her keen eye for detail, and her infectious enthusiasm for the natural world. I made a mental note to bring her and Émile here someday, to share this magical place with them. Perhaps during the cherry blossom season next year, when the grove is framed by delicate pink hues.

Emerging from the bamboo grove, I made my way to Tenryu-ji, one of Kyoto's most important Zen temples and a designated World Heritage site. Founded in 1339 by Shogun Ashikaga Takauji in memory of Emperor Go-Daigo, Tenryu-ji stands as a testament to the enduring power of Zen Buddhism in Japanese culture. The temple's history is rich and complex, marked by periods of both prosperity and destruction. Fires and wars have repeatedly ravaged the temple complex over the centuries, but it has always been rebuilt, a symbol of resilience and renewal.


Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. A cultural gem for every traveler.

I strolled through the temple's serene gardens, a masterpiece of landscape design created by the renowned Zen master Muso Soseki. The garden features a central pond surrounded by meticulously arranged rocks, pine trees, and the verdant Arashiyama mountains. It was a harmonious blend of nature and art, a place where one could easily lose oneself in contemplation.

The main hall, or Hojo, was a marvel of traditional Japanese architecture. Its painted sliding doors and intricate wooden carvings were stunning examples of craftsmanship. Inside, I found an image of Shakyamuni Buddha, its serene expression radiating peace and wisdom. I paused for a moment to offer a silent prayer, a gesture of respect for the temple's history and spiritual significance.

Leaving Tenryu-ji, I felt a sense of calm and rejuvenation. The temple's tranquil atmosphere and the garden's serene beauty had washed away the stresses of the city, leaving me refreshed and at peace.

Lunch was at Oryori Menami, a local restaurant known for its traditional Kyoto-style obanzai, a type of Japanese home cooking featuring a variety of small, seasonal dishes. The restaurant had a cozy, intimate atmosphere, and the staff were warm and welcoming. I ordered a set meal, which included an assortment of colorful and flavorful dishes. There was simmered vegetables, grilled fish, pickled radish, and a variety of other delicacies, each prepared with care and attention to detail. It was a true taste of Kyoto, a culinary journey through the region's rich gastronomic heritage. I savored every bite, appreciating the freshness of the ingredients and the subtle nuances of the flavors.


Experience authentic Obanzai cuisine in Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward at Oryori Menami - where tradition meets taste.

After lunch, I decided to treat myself to a drink at The Common One Bar Kyoto. This bar is known for its modern take on traditional Kyoto aesthetics, featuring tatami rooms and a tea room. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away and not easily visible from the street, which adds to its allure. The bartenders were true artists, crafting cocktails with precision and care. I opted for a brandy-based cocktail, drawn by the promise of a unique aroma and refreshing fruit flavors. The drink was expertly prepared, a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and bitter notes. Sipping my cocktail in the bar's serene atmosphere, I felt a deep sense of contentment. The attentive service and creative offerings made it a truly special experience.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at The Common One Bar, where tradition meets innovation in every cocktail.

As the day drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on the events of the past few hours. Arashiyama had exceeded all my expectations. It was a place of breathtaking beauty, rich history, and profound spiritual significance. The bamboo grove, the temples, the gardens, and the food had all combined to create a truly unforgettable experience. I felt grateful for the opportunity to have explored this enchanting district, to have immersed myself in its tranquil atmosphere, and to have discovered its hidden treasures.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Nijo Castle and the Kyoto International Manga Museum. I'm looking forward to delving deeper into Kyoto's history and culture, exploring its artistic heritage, and discovering new and exciting facets of this fascinating city. I might even pick up a manga for Émile, something to spark his imagination and introduce him to the world of Japanese storytelling. It's a way of bringing a piece of this journey back home, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that I've experienced here.

Before heading back to the hotel, I made a mental note to purchase an extra memory card for my camera. I realized that I was running low on space, and I didn't want to miss the opportunity to capture any more of Kyoto's stunning scenery. It was a small detail, but it was important to me. I wanted to preserve these memories, to be able to relive them whenever I wanted, to share them with Sophie and Émile, and to inspire others to embark on their own journeys of discovery.

For dinner, I decided to try Premium Pound Gion, a teppanyaki restaurant known for its high-quality Japanese beef. The restaurant was small and intimate, with only a few counter seats surrounding the teppan grill. The chef was a friendly and engaging character, speaking a few words in various languages, including English. He expertly prepared the beef right in front of me, searing it to perfection and serving it with a selection of delicious sauces and accompaniments. The beef was incredibly tender and flavorful, a true melt-in-your-mouth experience. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience culinary artistry at Premium Pound Gion – where French cuisine meets Japanese teppanyaki in the heart of Kyoto's historic Gion district.

As I sit here now, writing these words, I feel a deep sense of gratitude. Kyoto has captured my heart, its beauty, its history, its culture, and its people have all left an indelible mark on my soul. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, what new adventures await, and what new discoveries I will make in this enchanting city.

The Naked Sakura Festival is running from March 14th to April 13th, but I am sure that I will find other events to enjoy tomorrow as well. I heard about the Thomas the Tank Engine Exhibition, but I think that might be more interesting for Émile than for me.

Good night from Kyoto!