Cultural Journey Through Kyoto with Friends

Kyoto's Sacred Journey

Today was a day of deep immersion into the spiritual heart of Kyoto. It’s amazing how a city can hold so much history and devotion within its ancient walls. Habibullah always says I have a special connection to places of worship, a gift from my upbringing in Bamyan. Perhaps he’s right, because today, I felt truly moved.

Our first stop, after a quick and surprisingly delicious breakfast at Goichi Pizza [who knew pizza could be so good in Kyoto?], was the famed Fushimi Inari Taisha. The Thousand Torii Gates, a seemingly endless path of vermillion stretching up the mountain, were even more breathtaking in person than I had imagined. The crisp March air carried the scent of incense, and the sunlight filtered through the gates creating an ethereal glow. I walked with my friends, each lost in our own thoughts, but connected by the shared experience of awe.


Explore the enchanting Fushimi Inari Shrine, home to thousands of vibrant torii gates, where tradition and breathtaking beauty await every visitor.

I couldn't help but think of Farzana, my daughter, and how she would have loved to walk this path with us. She always appreciated the beauty and tranquility of sacred spaces. Even though I miss her, I know she's proud of me for embracing this journey and sharing my experiences with others. It’s funny, in Toronto, I feel so far removed from the traditions of my homeland, but here, surrounded by the echoes of centuries of devotion, I feel a sense of belonging I haven’t felt in years.

We spent a good portion of the morning exploring Fushimi Inari, climbing as far as our legs would carry us. The higher we went, the fewer people there were, and the more profound the sense of peace became. Small shrines dotted the path, each with its own unique offering and prayer. I paused at one to offer a silent prayer for the well-being of my family, both here and back in Canada. It felt good to connect with something bigger than myself, to feel the presence of the divine in this ancient place.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

After descending from the mountain, we were ready for lunch. We opted for something a little different than the traditional Japanese fare we’d been enjoying and found ourselves at Mezopotamia Kebab House. The aroma of grilled meat and spices was intoxicating, and the kebabs were absolutely delicious! It was a welcome taste of home, reminding me of the flavors of Afghanistan. It was a delightful change of pace, and the friendly owner made us feel right at home. Habibullah would have loved this place; he always appreciates a good kebab.

In the afternoon, we continued our temple tour with a visit to Tofuku-ji. This Zen temple, founded in 1236, offered a different kind of spiritual experience. The sprawling complex was a maze of gardens, halls, and gates, each more impressive than the last. The iconic Tsutenkyo Bridge, a covered walkway spanning a valley of maple trees, was a sight to behold, even in the late winter. I imagine it must be stunning in the autumn when the leaves are ablaze with color.


Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Tofuku-ji Temple, a must-visit Buddhist landmark in Kyoto.

The gardens at Tofuku-ji were particularly captivating. The Hojo Garden, designed by Mirei Shigemori in 1939, was a masterpiece of modern Zen garden design. The checkerboard patterns of moss and stone, the carefully raked gravel, and the strategically placed rocks created a sense of harmony and balance that was deeply soothing. I could have spent hours simply sitting there, contemplating the beauty of the natural world.

Our final stop of the day was Sanjusangendo Temple, home to 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The sheer scale of the hall, measuring 120 meters long, was astounding, but it was the sight of the thousands of golden statues that truly took my breath away. Each statue was unique, with its own distinct expression and posture. The central statue, a 3.3-meter-tall seated Kannon, was particularly impressive, radiating compassion and serenity.


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

Photography was not allowed inside the hall, but the image of those thousand Kannons is forever etched in my memory. It was a powerful reminder of the universality of faith, and the human desire for compassion and understanding. As someone who has witnessed so much suffering in my life, the sight of so many representations of mercy was deeply moving.

To cap off our day of spiritual exploration, we decided to try something new and headed to Bar Fishbowl for a nightcap. The bar's unique ambiance, with its fish tanks and relaxed atmosphere, was a welcome change from the solemnity of the temples. It was a fun and quirky place to unwind and reflect on the day's experiences. The bar had a wide selection of Japanese whiskeys and craft beers, which my friends enjoyed, and I had a refreshing non-alcoholic cocktail. It was the perfect way to end a day of cultural immersion.


Discover Kyoto's nightlife at Bar Fishbowl, a cocktail haven with stunning views and expertly crafted drinks in the heart of the city.

As I sit here now, writing in my hotel room at Hotel ZIZI Kyoto Gion, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences of the day. Kyoto has a way of touching the soul, of reminding us of the beauty and fragility of life. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Nijo Castle and the Kyoto Imperial Palace, delving further into the city's rich history. I’m also looking forward to a vegan dinner at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya. But for now, I will close my eyes and let the memories of today wash over me, the vermillion gates, the Zen gardens, and the thousand Buddhas, all blending together into a tapestry of faith and beauty. I am truly blessed to be on this journey, to be able to share it with my friends, and to connect with the spiritual heart of Kyoto.


Discover comfort and convenience at Hotel ZIZI Kyoto Gion, your perfect base for exploring historic Kyoto, with free Wi-Fi and local charm.

I’m also grateful for the little conveniences that make this trip so enjoyable. The location of Hotel ZIZI Kyoto Gion is perfect, allowing us to easily access all the major attractions. And knowing that Habibullah is back home, taking care of everything, allows me to fully immerse myself in the experience. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings. Perhaps I’ll even find a small souvenir at Mumokuteki goods & wears Kyoto to bring back for Farzana. Until then, goodnight from Kyoto.