Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Kyoto: A Solo Journey

Finding Peace in Kyoto's Sacred Spaces

Today was a day of quiet contemplation and visual splendor, a perfect blend that only Kyoto seems to effortlessly offer. I set out to explore some of the city's most iconic temples and gardens, hoping to capture not just their beauty, but also the sense of peace they inspire. It was a day of discovery, reflection, and a deeper connection with the soul of Japan.

My morning began at Anzukko for breakfast. It was a quaint little spot, tucked away from the main streets. I enjoyed a traditional Japanese breakfast set – grilled fish, miso soup, and perfectly steamed rice. It was simple, but incredibly satisfying, and set me up perfectly for the day ahead. It reminded me of the simple breakfasts Olivia and I used to have back in Truro before a long day of hiking on the Cornish coast.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Anzukko in Kyoto - renowned for exquisite gyoza and vibrant izakaya atmosphere.

First on the itinerary was Ryoan-ji, famous for its enigmatic Zen garden. I'd seen countless photos of it, but nothing could have prepared me for the actual experience. The garden is deceptively simple: fifteen rocks arranged on a bed of white gravel, surrounded by a low earthen wall. The beauty of the garden lies not just in its visual appeal, but in the sense of stillness and contemplation it evokes. I sat on the wooden veranda for what felt like hours, simply observing the arrangement of the rocks and the patterns in the gravel. Each time I looked, the garden seemed different, the arrangement shifting subtly with the light and my own perspective. It was a lesson in mindfulness, a reminder to be present in the moment and appreciate the beauty of simplicity.


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

Leaving Ryoan-ji, I made my way to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. If Ryoan-ji was about understated elegance, Kinkaku-ji was its flamboyant opposite. The temple is covered in gold leaf and shimmers brilliantly in the sunlight, reflecting off the surface of the pond it overlooks. It's a stunning sight, almost otherworldly in its beauty. The history of Kinkaku-ji is fascinating, from its origins as a retirement villa for a shogun to its eventual conversion into a Zen Buddhist temple. It has burned down several times over the centuries, each time being painstakingly rebuilt to its original glory. As I stood there, admiring its golden facade, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for the craftsmanship and dedication that went into its creation.


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

The beauty of a thing lies not just in its appearance, but in the story it tells and the emotions it evokes.

For lunch, I had a reservation at KINMATA. The restaurant was an experience in itself, with each course presented as a work of art. The flavors were delicate and refined, a testament to the chef's skill and attention to detail. I opted for the Kaiseki menu, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner. Each dish was a surprise, a new combination of flavors and textures that delighted my palate. It was a far cry from the pub lunches I was used to back in Cornwall, but I embraced the experience wholeheartedly, savoring each bite and appreciating the artistry of the presentation.


Experience authentic Obanzai cuisine at Kinmata, where tradition meets flavor in the heart of Kyoto.

After lunch, I ventured to Daitoku-ji Temple, a sprawling complex of sub-temples, each with its own unique character and history. I wandered through the grounds, exploring the various gardens and buildings, each one a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto. One of the sub-temples, Koto-in, was particularly memorable, with its serene bamboo grove and moss-covered garden. It was a peaceful oasis, a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature. I found myself drawn to the simplicity and tranquility of the space, a reminder of the beauty that can be found in the natural world.


Explore the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Daitoku-ji Temple, a historic Buddhist temple complex in Kyoto, Japan.

Before dinner, I stopped by Japan Culture & Character Shop Guf 京都店 to pick up a few gifts. I found a beautiful hand-painted fan for Olivia and a quirky Totoro plushie for Ethan. I always try to bring back something that reflects the local culture and the recipient's personality. I remember one time when Olivia was away on a librarian's conference, I brought Ethan to a local brewery and he enjoyed it so much that he is now keen on learning about the brewing process, just like his old man.


Explore Japan Culture & Character Shop Guf in Kyoto for unique souvenirs and hobby items that reflect the rich artistic heritage of Japan.

For my final meal of the day, I went to Premium Pound Gion for dinner. The restaurant specializes in Wagyu beef, and I decided to treat myself to the full experience. The beef was cooked to perfection, melting in my mouth with each bite. It was an indulgent meal, but well worth it. I paired it with a local sake, which complemented the richness of the beef perfectly. As I sat there, savoring the flavors and reflecting on the day, I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such incredible food and culture.


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

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding up a mountainside. I'm also hoping to explore the Kyoto Ebisu Shrine and the Shimogamo Shrine, each with its own unique history and significance. And if I'm feeling adventurous, I might even check out WORLD KYOTO, a local nightclub, for a taste of Kyoto's nightlife.

As the day drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on the experiences I had had. From the serene beauty of Ryoan-ji to the golden splendor of Kinkaku-ji, each moment had been a gift, a chance to connect with the soul of Kyoto. I realized that the true beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in the way it opens our minds and hearts to new perspectives. It's about embracing the unknown, stepping outside our comfort zones, and discovering the beauty that exists in the world around us. And as I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of Kyoto.

It’s nights like these, filled with quiet reflection, that remind me why I love to travel. It’s not just about ticking off destinations on a list; it’s about the personal growth, the expanded worldview, and the memories that last a lifetime. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.