Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Kyoto: A Solo Journey

Whispers in the Bamboo

Today was a day of serene exploration in Arashiyama, a district of Kyoto that I've long dreamt of visiting. It was a journey into nature's embrace, a step back in time, and a feast for the senses. From the towering stalks of the bamboo forest to the meticulously manicured gardens, every moment was a photograph waiting to be taken. And I took plenty, even though I momentarily forgot my sunscreen.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Arash's Kitchen. It was an unexpected delight to find such a diverse menu so early in the morning. I decided to go with a traditional Japanese breakfast set, which fueled me up perfectly for the day ahead. I must admit, being a brewery tour guide back in Kelowna has made me quite the connoisseur of local flavors, but this was a completely different experience that broadened my palate even further. I chuckled to myself, thinking how Olivia would have loved this place; she always appreciates a good culinary adventure.

The first stop was the famed Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. As I stepped onto the path, the towering bamboo stalks enveloped me, creating a world of green shadows and whispering leaves. The sunlight filtered through the canopy, casting an ethereal glow on the path ahead. It was quite crowded, but as I ventured deeper, the throngs of tourists thinned out, and I was able to find moments of solitude amidst the bamboo. I even tried to capture some of the magic with my camera, hoping to do justice to the sheer scale and beauty of the place. I was reminded of a quote I once heard:

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

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

Leaving the Bamboo Forest, I headed to Tenryu-ji Temple, a short walk away. The temple, with its rich history and stunning Sogenchi Garden, offered a tranquil escape from the bustling forest. I wandered through the meticulously designed landscape, admiring the perfectly placed rocks, the serene pond, and the distant mountains that seemed to blend seamlessly into the garden. It was a masterclass in landscape design, and I found myself completely lost in its beauty. I took my time exploring the various halls and pagodas, each offering a unique perspective on the garden and the surrounding landscape. I learned that Tenryu-ji Temple is the most important Zen temple in the Arashiyama district of Kyoto.


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.

Next on the itinerary was the Okochi Sanso Garden, the former villa of the silent film actor Okochi Denjiro. This garden was a true hidden gem, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The winding paths led me through meticulously manicured landscapes, past tea houses, and to breathtaking viewpoints. It felt like stepping into a movie set, and I could almost imagine Okochi Denjiro himself strolling through the garden, contemplating his next role. At the end of the garden path, I was treated to a cup of matcha tea and a sweet, which I enjoyed while taking in the panoramic views. I thought to myself that Ethan would have loved to explore this villa. Maybe I will bring him here one day.


Discover the serene beauty of Okochi Sanso Garden in Kyoto, a hidden gem blending nature, history, and culture in perfect harmony.

For lunch, I decided to try Hafuu, a local restaurant known for its exquisite meat dishes. Given my love for a good brew back in Kelowna, I appreciated the care and attention that went into preparing the food. The steak was cooked to perfection, and the flavors were simply divine. It was a culinary experience that I won't soon forget. I opted for the lunch course menu and was not disappointed.


Discover Hafuu in Kyoto: where premium Japanese beef meets culinary excellence in an elegant setting.

After lunch, I spent some time browsing the local shops, picking up a few souvenirs for Olivia and Ethan. I stumbled upon a charming little shop called musubi -kyoto-, where I found some beautiful handcrafted items. I bought a small trinket for Olivia, a reminder of our time together, even though she wasn't here. The shop was a treasure trove of unique finds, and I could have easily spent hours browsing through its wares.


Discover the beauty of traditional kimonos and fashion accessories at Musubi, a gem in the heart of Kyoto’s cultural landscape.

As evening approached, I made my way to Teppan Tavern Tenamonya for dinner. This cozy little restaurant offered a unique dining experience, with the chefs preparing the food right in front of me on a teppan grill. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, and I enjoyed chatting with the other diners while watching the chefs work their magic. I savored every bite of the delicious food, from the grilled meats to the savory pancakes. It was the perfect end to a perfect day. The restaurant is family-run, and they were very welcoming. I felt like I was eating in their home.


Experience authentic teppanyaki at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, Kyoto's premier destination for Japanese cuisine in a lively izakaya setting.

Reflecting on the day, it struck me how different Kyoto is from Kelowna. While I love the craft beer scene and the outdoor activities back home, there's something truly special about the history, culture, and natural beauty of this city. It's a place that nourishes the soul and inspires the imagination. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventure, which will take me to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Sannenzaka, and Ninenzaka. I also plan to check out The Common One Bar Kyoto in the evening. I think I will enjoy a nice drink there.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore Kyoto. It's a dream come true, and I'm determined to make the most of every moment. I'm also grateful for Olivia's support and encouragement. She always believed in me, even when I doubted myself. I miss her terribly, but I know she's with me in spirit.

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.

I'm eager to see what tomorrow brings. I've heard that Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a must-see, and I'm excited to explore the historic streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka. Until then, I'll bid you goodnight from Kyoto, a city that has captured my heart and soul. I should remember to buy an umbrella and sunscreen tomorrow. I keep forgetting those essentials!

The memories I made today, the sights I witnessed, and the flavors I savored will stay with me long after I leave this enchanting city. It's a reminder that life is an adventure, and we should embrace every opportunity to explore the world and discover new things. And who knows, maybe one day I'll convince Olivia and Ethan to join me on a trip to Kyoto. That would be the ultimate adventure.

And now, if you'll excuse me, I think I'll treat myself to a nightcap before turning in. After all, a brewery tour guide never truly clocks out, does he?

Goodnight from Kyoto!

P.S. For those planning a trip to Arashiyama, I highly recommend arriving early to avoid the crowds, especially at the Bamboo Forest. And don't forget your camera! You'll want to capture every moment of this magical place.

Also, bear in mind that some restaurants may have specific requirements, such as reservations or minimum spending, so it's always a good idea to check in advance.

Until tomorrow!

Safe travels!

James