A Solo Cultural Exploration in Kyoto, Japan

Whispers of the Wind in Arashiyama

Today was a day of serene exploration, a journey into the heart of Arashiyama's bamboo forest and the tranquil embrace of Tenryu-ji Temple. Leaving behind the familiar streets of Kyoto, I ventured into a world where nature and culture intertwine, creating an unforgettable experience. It was a day to remember, filled with the simple joys of discovery and the quiet beauty of Japan.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at The Cellar Kyoto. The reviews I had read mentioned a hidden entrance, and I must admit, I felt a bit like I was embarking on a secret mission as I searched for it. Eventually, I found the discreet doorway, and stepped inside to a cozy, inviting space. I opted for a classic Western breakfast of eggs, toast, and coffee. It was just the fuel I needed for a day of exploring. The Cellar is known for using seasonal ingredients, and the freshness of everything was evident. It was a delightful way to start the day, setting a positive tone for the adventures ahead.

After breakfast, I made my way to Arashiyama. The train journey itself was a treat, offering glimpses of the Japanese countryside. Arriving in Arashiyama, I was immediately struck by the natural beauty surrounding me. The Hozugawa River sparkled in the morning sun, and the mountains provided a stunning backdrop. I could already feel the stress of Berlin melting away.

My first stop was the famed Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. As I stepped into the grove, I was immediately enveloped in a world of green. Towering bamboo stalks stretched towards the sky, creating a canopy that filtered the sunlight into soft, dappled patterns on the path. The air was cool and fresh, and the only sounds were the gentle rustling of the bamboo leaves and the occasional bird song. It was an incredibly peaceful and calming experience. I spent a good hour wandering through the grove, taking photos and simply soaking in the atmosphere. Despite the presence of other tourists, the grove managed to maintain a sense of serenity. I tried to imagine what it must be like during the quieter months, perhaps in the winter when the bamboo is dusted with snow. I made a mental note to perhaps return during that season someday. It is February, and although the cherry blossoms are not yet in full bloom, there was still a unique beauty to be found. According to a recent article, the best times to visit are during the cherry blossom season in spring or the autumn foliage season. However, I found the winter months appealing due to the potential for a quieter, snow-dusted experience.


Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Bamboo Path (Take-no-michi) in Muko, Kyoto, where nature and tranquility meet.

Emerging from the bamboo grove, I made my way to Tenryu-ji Temple, a short walk away. This Zen temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered one of the most important temples in Kyoto. I paid the entrance fee and stepped into the temple grounds. The first thing that struck me was the Sogenchi Garden, a masterpiece of landscape design. The garden features a central pond surrounded by meticulously arranged rocks, trees, and shrubs. It was designed to be viewed from the temple buildings, and I spent a long time admiring the scene from various vantage points. The garden is supposed to be beautiful in all seasons, but I imagine it's especially stunning in the autumn when the maple trees turn red and gold. I learned that the temple was constructed in 1339 and consecrated in 1345. While many buildings were lost to fires and wars, they were reconstructed during the Meiji Period.


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.

The beauty of Arashiyama lies not just in its scenic views, but in the profound sense of peace it instills.

I explored the various temple buildings, each with its own unique features and artwork. One of the highlights was the Cloud Dragon painting on the ceiling of the Hatto (Dharma Hall). Unfortunately, the Hatto was closed today, as it is only open on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, or during special periods in the spring and autumn. I was a bit disappointed, but I still felt that the temple was well worth the visit. I took my time wandering through the temple complex, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful architecture. It was a welcome respite from the crowds of the bamboo grove. I found a quiet spot to sit and meditate for a few minutes, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such a special place. Perhaps I will return on another Saturday during my trip to see the Cloud Dragon painting.

For lunch, I decided to try Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki & Teppan-yaki Kamehameha. It was quite a distance from Arashiyama, but I figured I could use the walk. I had never tried Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki before, so I was curious to see how it differed from the Osaka version. When I arrived, I was greeted by a friendly chef who spoke a little English. I ordered the classic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki with pork, noodles, and a fried egg on top. The chef prepared it right in front of me on the teppan grill, expertly flipping and layering the ingredients. When it was ready, he slid it onto my plate and handed me a pair of chopsticks and a small spatula. The okonomiyaki was delicious! The layers of ingredients created a wonderful mix of textures and flavors, and the savory sauce was the perfect complement. It was definitely different from the Osaka version, but I enjoyed it just as much. I chatted with the chef for a few minutes after my meal, and he told me that he had learned to cook okonomiyaki in Hiroshima before moving to Kyoto. He was clearly passionate about his craft, and it showed in the quality of his food. I thanked him for the delicious meal and headed back towards Kyoto.


Discover authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Kamehameha, Kyoto's premier destination for delicious Japanese cuisine.

After lunch, I decided to check out the Kyoto Station ASTY Kyoto Kyoani Goods Store. As a software developer, I have an appreciation for all things tech and anime, and I was curious to see what kind of merchandise they had. I took the train back to Kyoto Station and made my way to the ASTY shopping area. It was easy to find, and I was soon browsing the shelves of anime-related products. I ended up buying a few small souvenirs for myself and Lena, including a Violet Evergarden keychain and a K-ON! sticker. I had read that the store was originally scheduled to close in January 2024, but it had been extended due to popular demand. I am glad that I had the chance to visit it. I wonder if Lena would enjoy visiting this store with me if she were here. Perhaps on our next trip to Japan, we can explore these niche interests together.


Explore Kyoto Station ASTY Kyoto Kyoani Goods Store for exclusive anime merchandise and a taste of Japan's vibrant pop culture.

For dinner, I had made a reservation at Jiki Miyazawa. It is a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its refined Kaiseki cuisine. I was looking forward to experiencing a traditional Japanese multi-course meal. The restaurant was located in a quiet neighborhood, and when I arrived, I was greeted by the chef himself. He led me to my seat at the counter, where I had a perfect view of the kitchen. The meal began with a series of small, beautifully presented dishes, each showcasing seasonal ingredients and delicate flavors. There was grilled octopus with watermelon and strawberry granita, bonito sashimi with fresh green onion and seaweed, and grilled sesame tofu with sesame dressing. Each dish was a work of art, and the flavors were complex and satisfying. The chef explained each dish to me in detail, and I appreciated his passion for his craft. The next courses included pike conger soup, Japanese salmon with eggplant and ginger, and a rice dish with pickled vegetables and miso soup. The meal was a culinary journey, and I savored every bite. The chef also recommended a few different types of sake to pair with the dishes, and I enjoyed learning about the different flavors and aromas. By the end of the meal, I was completely full and content. It was definitely one of the best dining experiences I've ever had.


Indulge in an authentic Kaiseki dining experience at Jiki Miyazawa, where seasonal flavors meet exquisite presentation in the heart of Kyoto.

As I walked back to my hotel, I reflected on the day's events. I had explored a bamboo forest, visited a Zen temple, eaten delicious food, and shopped for anime merchandise. It had been a day of contrasts, but it all came together to create a truly memorable experience. I am grateful for the opportunity to travel and experience different cultures, and I look forward to what tomorrow will bring.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its thousands of torii gates, Tofuku-ji Temple, and Sanjusangendo Temple. I am also planning to check out The Common One Bar Kyoto. It sounds like another day full of exploration and discovery, and I can't wait to get started. I also need to remember to buy a travel adapter, as I forgot to pack one. It is a small thing, but it will make a big difference in my ability to charge my devices. I will make sure to add it to my list of trip essentials for future travels.