A Solo Cultural Exploration in Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto's Quiet Corners

Today, I ventured into the heart of Kyoto, seeking the tranquility that lies beyond the bustling tourist trails. My quest led me to three remarkable temples, each offering a unique glimpse into the city's rich history and serene beauty. It was a day of quiet contemplation and cultural immersion, a reminder of why I embarked on this solo journey in the first place. As a software developer from Berlin, I often find myself lost in lines of code, so these moments of peace are truly invaluable.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Nishikawa. Fuelled up with traditional Japanese fare, I set off to explore the temples that awaited me. My first stop was Shorenin Temple, a place I'd heard whispered about as a 'hidden gem'.


Experience the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Shōrenin Temple, a must-visit Buddhist temple in Kyoto's enchanting Higashiyama Ward.

Shorenin Temple: A Blue Lotus Dream

As I stepped through the gates of Shorenin Temple, I was immediately struck by the sense of calm that enveloped the grounds. Unlike some of the more crowded temples in Kyoto, Shorenin offered a peaceful retreat, a place where I could truly connect with the surroundings. The temple is known for its stunning fusuma paintings, created by contemporary artist Hideki Kimura, which depict blue lotuses. These vibrant artworks added a modern touch to the traditional setting, creating a captivating blend of old and new. I took my time wandering through the halls, admiring the intricate details of the paintings and the serene beauty of the gardens.

The beauty of Shorenin lies not just in its art, but in the profound sense of peace it instills in every visitor.

The gardens at Shorenin were particularly enchanting. I strolled along the moss-covered paths, listening to the gentle sounds of nature. The main garden, Soami-no-niwa, was a masterpiece of landscape design, with perfectly proportioned trees and a tranquil pond. I learned that this garden was designed by Soami, who also created the rock garden at Ginkaku-ji Temple, which I would visit later in the day. It was fascinating to see the connection between these two serene spaces, each reflecting the artist's unique vision.

Eikando Temple: A Labyrinth of Beauty

Next on my itinerary was Eikando Temple, a sprawling complex nestled at the base of the Higashiyama mountains. As I approached the temple, I was immediately drawn in by its maze-like layout, with covered walkways and staircases connecting the various halls and gardens. This intricate design gave Eikando a sense of adventure, as if I were exploring a hidden world.


Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Eikan-dō Temple, a must-visit Buddhist sanctuary in Kyoto, Japan, surrounded by stunning gardens.

One of the most striking features of Eikando was its Tahoto Pagoda, perched high on a hillside. I climbed the steps to reach the pagoda, and was rewarded with panoramic views of Kyoto. From this vantage point, I could see the entire city stretching out before me, a tapestry of rooftops and green spaces. It was a breathtaking sight, a reminder of the beauty that surrounds me on this journey.

Eikando is also famous for its Amida Buddha statue, which has a unique head turned to the side. Legend has it that the Buddha turned his head to look back at his followers, a gesture of compassion and guidance. I found myself captivated by this story, and spent a few moments contemplating the statue's serene expression.

Before leaving Eikando, I took a moment to appreciate the temple's beautiful sliding doors, adorned with intricate paintings. The covered walkways and stairs added to the temple's charm, creating a sense of tranquility and calm. It was easy to see why Eikando is known as the 'temple in a calm grove', a place where one can escape the stresses of daily life and find inner peace.

Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion): Zen and Simplicity

My final temple of the day was Ginkaku-ji, also known as the Silver Pavilion. Unlike the Golden Pavilion, which is covered in gold leaf, Ginkaku-ji was never actually covered in silver. Despite its name, the temple exudes a sense of understated elegance, a reflection of the Zen philosophy that it embodies.


Discover the serene beauty of Higashiyama Jisho-ji, a historic Buddhist temple and natural oasis in Kyoto, Japan.

As I entered the grounds of Ginkaku-ji, I was immediately drawn to the temple's minimalist dry garden, known as the 'Sea of Silver Sand'. This meticulously raked garden featured a large cone of sand, called the 'Moon Viewing Platform', which is said to represent Mount Fuji or the reflection of the moon in a pond. I spent some time contemplating this serene space, feeling a sense of calm wash over me.

Sometimes, the greatest beauty lies not in extravagance, but in the simplicity of form and the harmony of nature.

I also explored the moss garden at Ginkaku-ji, a more traditional Japanese garden with a lush carpet of green moss covering the ground and stones. The moss garden was a tranquil oasis, a place where I could connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the natural world. I climbed the hillside behind the temple, and was rewarded with a stunning view of the entire Ginkaku-ji complex. From this vantage point, I could see the Silver Pavilion nestled among the trees, a symbol of peace and tranquility.

Dinner and Drinks: Reflecting on the Day

After a full day of temple hopping, I was ready for a good meal. I headed to Hafuu for dinner, a restaurant known for its exquisite meat dishes. As a Czech native, I have a deep appreciation for quality meat, and Hafuu did not disappoint. I savored every bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such culinary delights.


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

To cap off the evening, I decided to check out Kyoto Pub. It was a lively spot, and I enjoyed chatting with some of the locals and fellow travelers. I found it interesting to learn about the different perspectives and experiences of people from around the world. It was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about connecting with new people.


Experience Kyoto's vibrant nightlife at Kyoto Pub, where tradition meets modernity in a cozy setting filled with local flavors.

As I walked back to Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo, I reflected on the day's adventures. I had visited three remarkable temples, each offering a unique glimpse into Kyoto's rich history and serene beauty. I had savored delicious food and connected with interesting people. It was a day that I would cherish for a long time.


Discover the perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional charm at Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo, just steps away from Kyoto's vibrant attractions.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Rengeo-in (Sanjusangendo), Togetsukyo Bridge and Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple. I'm looking forward to more exploration and new discoveries.

This solo trip to Kyoto has been a chance for me to reconnect with myself and explore a culture that has always fascinated me. The temples, gardens, and people of Kyoto have touched my heart in a profound way. I am grateful for the opportunity to experience this beautiful city, and I look forward to sharing more of my adventures with you.

Before I turn in for the night, I should probably find a travel adapter. I realized today that I completely forgot to pack one. It's a minor inconvenience, but definitely something I need to sort out before tomorrow's adventures.