Solo Adventure in the Cultural Heart of Japan: Exploring Kyoto

A Fond Farewell to Kyoto

As my final day in Kyoto unfolded, I felt a bittersweet mix of emotions. This solo journey through the cultural heart of Japan has been nothing short of transformative. I’ve wandered through ancient temples, savored exquisite cuisine, and lost myself in the serene beauty of Japanese gardens. Today, I planned to soak in as much of Kyoto's essence as possible before heading back to Dresden, filled with memories and photographs to last a lifetime.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Arancino Kyoto. It was a delightful Italian meal to start my day. I enjoyed the elegant atmosphere and the high-quality ingredients. It was a bit of a change from the traditional Japanese breakfasts I'd been having, but a welcome one.


Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Arancino Kyoto – where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

After breakfast, I hopped on a train to Uji, a small city just south of Kyoto, famed for its tea and the Byodoin Temple. The train ride itself was a pleasant experience, offering glimpses of the Japanese countryside. I found myself reflecting on how much I enjoy train travel in Japan; it’s always so punctual and efficient.

Byodoin Temple: A Glimpse of Paradise

Upon arriving in Uji, the first stop was the magnificent Byodoin Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage site is truly a sight to behold. Founded in 998, it was originally a countryside villa before being converted into a temple in 1052. The centerpiece, the Phoenix Hall (Hoo-do), is an architectural marvel that seems to float on the surrounding pond. The intricate details and the golden phoenix perched atop the roof were absolutely stunning.


Explore Byodoin Temple in Uji, Kyoto - a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture, serene gardens, and rich cultural heritage.

I spent a good amount of time wandering around the temple grounds, taking in the serene atmosphere and snapping photos from every angle. The reflection of the Phoenix Hall in the water was particularly captivating, creating a sense of otherworldly beauty. Inside the hall, the Amida Buddha statues exuded a sense of peace and tranquility. It was easy to see why this place is considered a symbol of the Pure Land of Buddhism.

I also visited the Byodoin Temple Museum Hoshokan, which houses many of the temple's treasures, including the original phoenix statues and bronze ornaments. The museum provided a deeper understanding of the temple's history and cultural significance. The colorful restoration video of the Phoenix Hall, created using the latest digital technology, was especially impressive.

The beauty of Byodoin Temple lies not just in its architecture, but in the sense of peace and spiritual harmony it evokes.

Uji Bridge: A Walk Through History

Next on the itinerary was the historic Uji Bridge. Spanning the Uji River, this bridge is one of the oldest in Japan, dating back to 646 AD. As I walked across, I imagined all the travelers who had crossed this same path over the centuries. The current structure dates back to the 17th century, but it still retains its ancient charm.


Explore Uji Bridge in Kyoto: A historical landmark offering scenic views, tranquility, and a taste of local culture amidst beautiful landscapes.

Standing on the bridge, I gazed at the gentle flow of the Uji River. Despite it being February, there was still a hint of green along the banks, offering a promise of the spring to come. I paused to admire the statue of Murasaki Shikibu, the author of *The Tale of Genji*, which stands near the bridge. Uji is closely linked to this classic work of Japanese literature, and I made a mental note to visit the Tale of Genji Museum on my next trip.

Before leaving Uji, I had lunch at Ajikyu, a charming local restaurant. I savored the flavors of authentic Japanese cuisine, enjoying a quiet moment to reflect on the morning's adventures. A comforting and satisfying meal.


Discover authentic Japanese dining at Ajikyu in Kyoto—where tradition meets exquisite culinary artistry.

Katsura Imperial Villa: A Garden of Perfection

In the afternoon, I returned to Kyoto to visit the Katsura Imperial Villa. This was an experience I had been eagerly anticipating, and it did not disappoint. The villa is renowned for its exquisite gardens and refined architecture, representing the epitome of Japanese aesthetic design.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Katsura Imperial Villa, a historical gem in Kyoto, showcasing exquisite gardens and traditional Japanese architecture.

The Katsura Imperial Villa was constructed in the early Edo period (1600-1868) as a retreat for members of the imperial family. The villa and its gardens are meticulously designed to create a harmonious blend of nature and artifice. As I strolled through the grounds, I was struck by the attention to detail and the subtle beauty of every element, from the carefully placed stones to the perfectly manicured trees.

The villa is composed of several buildings, including the Old Shoin, Middle Shoin, and New Shoin, each showcasing different aspects of Japanese architectural style. The interiors are simple yet elegant, with tatami mats, sliding doors, and delicate paper screens. The gardens are designed to be viewed from various vantage points within the buildings, creating a seamless connection between the interior and exterior spaces.

I was particularly impressed by the teahouses scattered throughout the garden. These small, intimate spaces were designed for quiet contemplation and the enjoyment of tea ceremonies. I imagined the imperial family and their guests gathering here to appreciate the beauty of nature and engage in refined conversation.

Unfortunately, due to the time of year, the gardens weren’t in full bloom. However, the bare trees and mossy ground had their own stark beauty. It reminded me of the Icelandic landscape back home, in a way.

“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” – Audrey Hepburn

Rocking Bar ING: A Final Toast

As the day drew to a close, I decided to experience a different side of Kyoto's nightlife. I ventured to Rocking Bar ING, a small, dimly lit bar known for its extensive collection of rock music. The owner, Hako, is a music fanatic and has an impressive collection of vinyl records from the 1960s to the 1990s. It was a fun and quirky spot, and I enjoyed chatting with Hako and listening to some classic rock tunes.


Discover Rocking Bar ING in Kyoto, where the spirit of rock music comes alive amidst an eclectic atmosphere and vibrant nightlife.

It was the perfect way to end my trip – a bit unexpected, but full of character and charm. I raised a glass to Kyoto, to solo adventures, and to the memories I would carry home with me.

Farewell, Kyoto

And so, my ten-day solo adventure in Kyoto comes to an end. As I prepare to leave this enchanting city, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences I have had and the beauty I have witnessed. Kyoto has captured my heart, and I know I will return someday to explore its hidden corners and rediscover its timeless charm.

Tomorrow, I will be making my way back to Dresden. I am looking forward to seeing Maximilian and Clara, and sharing all my stories with them. Until next time, Japan!

Safe travels to all, and may your own adventures be filled with wonder and joy.