Cultural Journey Through Kyoto with Friends

A Day of Golden Visions and Peaceful Contemplation

Today, Kyoto revealed another layer of its captivating soul to me. It was a day of gilded reflections, tranquil gardens, and a deeper understanding of the city's spiritual heart. I felt a sense of peace and connection to this ancient land, a feeling I'm eager to share.



Our day began with a delightful breakfast at The Cellar Kyoto. It was a modern, cozy spot, quite different from the traditional tea houses I've been frequenting. It was a buffet, which reminded me of home, with a wide selection of pastries and fresh fruit. I had a little bit of everything, fueling up for the day's adventures. I must admit, sometimes a familiar taste is just what I need to keep my energy up, especially when I'm missing Habibullah's cooking.


Discover culinary excellence at The Cellar Kyoto - where creative cuisine meets fine wine in a stylish setting.

Our first stop was the magnificent Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. As we approached, the sun peeked through the clouds, casting a radiant glow on the temple. The sight was simply breathtaking. The shimmering gold reflecting on the tranquil pond created an ethereal scene. It felt like stepping into a painting, a world of pure beauty and serenity. I took my time wandering around the pond, admiring the meticulously manicured gardens and the artistry of the temple itself. It was quite cold, with temperatures between 2–10°C (36–50°F) but the sun made it bearable. I learned that Kinkaku-ji was originally built in 1397 and then rebuilt in 1955 after being burned down by a monk. The history of the place is as fascinating as its beauty. I could imagine how stunning it must look covered in snow, a pristine white and gold spectacle.


Explore Kinkaku-ji, the breathtaking Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, where history and nature blend beautifully in a tranquil setting.

         To see the world in a grain of sand, and to see heaven in a wild flower, hold infinity in the palm of your hands, and eternity in an hour.
                                                                                                                                           - William Blake



Next, we journeyed to Ryoan-ji, a Zen temple famed for its enigmatic rock garden. This was a completely different experience from the opulence of Kinkaku-ji. Here, simplicity reigned. The garden consisted of fifteen rocks arranged in a sea of meticulously raked white gravel. It was a space for contemplation, a place to quiet the mind and find inner peace. As I sat on the veranda, gazing at the garden, I tried to decipher its meaning. The rocks seemed to float on the gravel, creating a sense of balance and harmony. I learned that the garden's design is such that at least one of the rocks is always hidden from view, no matter where you stand. Some say the garden represents islands in the sea, others see mountains piercing through clouds. I found myself lost in thought, pondering the nature of existence and the impermanence of all things. It was a truly meditative experience. Thinking about the rock garden, I was reminded of the serene landscapes of Bamyan, Afghanistan, with its towering Buddha statues carved into the cliffs. Although vastly different in form, both places evoke a sense of timelessness and spiritual contemplation.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Ryōan-ji in Kyoto, a renowned Zen temple known for its iconic rock garden and rich cultural heritage.

Our final temple visit of the day was to Ninna-ji Temple. Founded in 888 by Emperor Uda, it has strong ties to the imperial family, which is evident in the temple's architecture and serene atmosphere. The temple is vast, encompassing beautiful gardens, a five-story pagoda, and the Kondo Hall, a replica of a Kyoto Imperial Palace hall. The Kondo Hall was particularly impressive, with its intricate details and beautiful statues of Amida Triad. As I walked through the temple grounds, I felt a connection to Japan's imperial history. I learned that Ninna-ji was destroyed during the Onin War in 1467 but was rebuilt in the 17th century. The resilience of this temple, its ability to rise from the ashes, resonated deeply with me. It reminded me of the strength and perseverance of the Afghan people, who have endured so much hardship but continue to rebuild their lives and their country. I was a bit early for the famed Omuro cherry blossoms, which bloom in April, but I could imagine how stunning the temple must look then.


Discover the tranquility and beauty of Ninna-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, showcasing stunning architecture and serene gardens.

For lunch, we decided to try Katsukura - Kyoto Porta, a restaurant known for its tonkatsu. I had heard so much about it, and I was eager to try this quintessential Japanese dish. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike. The tonkatsu was indeed delicious, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It was served with rice, miso soup, and shredded cabbage, a simple but satisfying meal. As I savored each bite, I thought about how food can be a bridge between cultures. Sharing a meal is a way to connect with people, to understand their traditions and values. It reminded me of the times I've cooked Afghan dishes for my Canadian friends, sharing a piece of my heritage with them.


Discover authentic Tonkatsu at Katsukura - a must-visit Japanese restaurant in Kyoto offering delightful flavors in a modern setting.

In the afternoon, we did some shopping at Daimaru Kyoto Store. I was looking for souvenirs to bring back home, perhaps a traditional tea set or some handcrafted pottery. I found a beautiful silk scarf with a delicate floral pattern, which I thought would be perfect for Farzana. I also picked up some green tea candies for the grandchildren. I also noticed that Daimaru was hosting a Chocolat Promenade event, featuring a variety of chocolates and sweets. It reminded me of Valentine's Day, which had just passed. It's fascinating how different cultures celebrate love and affection.


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, we sought out Bar K6, a popular spot known for its cocktails. It was a cozy and intimate space, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. I ordered a plum wine, a local specialty, and savored its sweet and tangy flavor. It was a delightful way to end the day, reflecting on the beauty and tranquility of Kyoto. It was a quiet place for me to collect my thoughts. I was a bit too tired to stay out too late, so I headed back to Hotel ZIZI Kyoto Gion to rest for tomorrow.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Bar K6, where traditional Japanese drinks meet modern bar culture in a cozy setting.

Tomorrow, we plan to venture to Arashiyama to see the bamboo forest and Tenryu-ji Temple. I've heard so much about the beauty of Arashiyama, and I'm eager to explore this natural wonderland. I’m sure that this journey will bring even more discoveries and enrich my understanding of Japan. Good night from Kyoto!


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