Exploring the Cultural Tapestry of Kyoto with My Spouse

Finding Peace on the Philosopher's Path

Today in Kyoto felt like a perfect blend of serene reflection and modern inspiration. Maximilian and I embarked on a journey that took us through ancient paths, tranquil temples, and a haven of contemporary design. It was a day that truly captured the essence of Kyoto – a city where tradition and innovation coexist in perfect harmony.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Masayoshi Japanese Dining. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, while Maximilian, ever the adventurous one, tried the steak. Fueled up, we set out to explore the Philosopher's Path. I had read about this scenic route, and I was eager to experience its tranquility firsthand. The path, which follows a canal lined with cherry trees, is named after Nishida Kitaro, a philosopher who used to walk it daily for meditation. While the cherry blossoms weren't in bloom yet, the path still held a quiet beauty. The bare branches of the trees reached out over the canal, creating intricate patterns against the sky.


Explore the Philosopher's Path, a serene journey through nature and philosophy in Kyoto, lined with cherry blossoms and historic temples.

Walking along the Philosopher's Path, I felt a sense of calm wash over me. The gentle sound of the water flowing in the canal, the soft breeze rustling through the trees – it was all incredibly soothing. We passed several small temples and shrines along the way, each with its own unique charm. I couldn't help but imagine what it must be like during cherry blossom season, when the path is transformed into a tunnel of pink. Though the blossoms weren't out, it was still easy to appreciate the serenity that the path offered. Maximilian and I took our time, stopping to admire the scenery and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. We even spotted a few locals walking their dogs or simply enjoying the morning air. It was a reminder that even in a bustling city like Kyoto, there are pockets of tranquility to be found. We paused at a small stone monument inscribed with a poem by Nishida Kitaro, a reminder to stay true to oneself amidst the chaos of the world.

People are people, and I will be myself.

Next on our itinerary was Nanzen-ji Temple, located near the end of the Philosopher's Path. This Zen temple is one of the most important in Kyoto, and I was eager to explore its vast grounds. As we approached the temple, I was immediately struck by its grandeur. The imposing Sanmon Gate, one of the largest wooden gates in Japan, stood before us, a testament to the temple's rich history. We passed through the gate and entered the main complex, where we were greeted by a stunning array of buildings and gardens. The temple's history as Emperor Kameyama's retirement villa was palpable, and I could easily imagine him finding solace in this tranquil setting.


Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Nanzen-ji Temple, a stunning Buddhist sanctuary nestled in the heart of Kyoto's natural landscape.

One of the highlights of Nanzen-ji was the Suirokaku Aqueduct, a brick structure built during the Meiji era. This aqueduct, which is part of the Lake Biwa Canal, is a unique blend of Japanese and Western architectural styles. The contrast between the red brick and the surrounding greenery was striking, and I couldn't resist snapping a few photos. We wandered through the temple's gardens, admiring the meticulously manicured landscapes and the serene ponds. The crisp winter air added to the sense of calm, and I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience such a beautiful and historic place. I made a mental note to return in the autumn, when the maple trees surrounding the temple are ablaze with color. I imagine it would be an even more breathtaking sight. Maximilian was fascinated by the history of the temple, particularly its role in the development of Zen Buddhism in Japan. He peppered me with questions, and I did my best to answer them based on my guidebook and the information we found on the temple's website. It's moments like these that make traveling with Maximilian so enriching – he always encourages me to delve deeper into the history and culture of the places we visit. I really enjoyed learning about the origin of Yudofu (tofu hot pot) being linked to Nanzen-ji, but unfortunately did not have time to sample it.

For lunch, we decided to try Antonio, a Spanish restaurant. After days of traditional Japanese cuisine, we were both craving something different. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, and the aroma of Spanish spices filled the air. We ordered a selection of tapas to share, including patatas bravas, gambas al ajillo, and jamón ibérico. Each dish was bursting with flavor, and it was a welcome change from the delicate flavors of Japanese cuisine. Maximilian, who lived in Spain for a year during his university days, was particularly thrilled with the authenticity of the food. He regaled me with stories of his time in Seville, and I felt transported to the sun-drenched streets of Andalusia. The owner, who is Spanish, made us feel incredibly welcome and we enjoyed chatting with him about his journey to Kyoto. It was a delightful culinary experience that left us feeling satisfied and refreshed. I am always happy to discover restaurants with international cuisine, as it reminds me of the vibrant food scene in Berlin.


Discover authentic Spanish flavors at Antonio in Kyoto – where culinary artistry meets vibrant ambiance.

In the afternoon, we ventured into the heart of Kyoto to visit the MoMA Design Store. As a lover of modern art and design, I had been looking forward to this visit. The store, located in the Nakagyo Ward, was a haven of contemporary creativity. From furniture and lighting to stationery and accessories, every item was carefully curated and beautifully displayed. I was particularly drawn to the selection of Japanese products, which blended traditional craftsmanship with modern design aesthetics. Maximilian, who appreciates minimalist design, was equally impressed. He spent ages examining a collection of sleek, stainless steel kitchenware, while I browsed through a selection of colorful, patterned washi tape.


Explore the MoMA Design Store Kyoto: A treasure trove of innovative art and design products that capture the spirit of creativity.

I ended up purchasing a few small items – a set of geometric-shaped coasters and a minimalist-designed water bottle. Maximilian bought a sleek pen and notepad, perfect for jotting down ideas during his software development work. I always find it inspiring to see how art and design can be integrated into everyday objects. The MoMA Design Store was a testament to the power of creativity and innovation, and I left feeling energized and inspired. It also reminded me of the importance of supporting artists and designers who are pushing the boundaries of creativity. I am looking forward to incorporating the new design pieces into our home in Berlin, adding a touch of Kyoto's modern aesthetic to our everyday life.

For dinner, we indulged in an exquisite tempura experience at Yoshikawa. The restaurant is known for its traditional setting and meticulously prepared tempura dishes. The atmosphere was serene, with a beautiful garden view enhancing the dining experience. We chose a set menu that included a variety of seasonal vegetables and seafood, each piece lightly battered and perfectly fried. The chef's skill was evident in the delicate flavors and textures of each dish. Maximilian and I enjoyed watching the chefs at work, preparing each course with precision and care. The meal was a delightful culinary journey, showcasing the artistry and dedication of Japanese cuisine. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with exploration and cultural immersion. I must admit that the tempura was much better than what I have experienced back in Berlin.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Yoshikawa, where tradition meets exceptional flavors in the heart of Kyoto.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on the incredible experiences we had shared. From the tranquil Philosopher's Path to the vibrant MoMA Design Store, Kyoto had once again captivated me with its unique blend of tradition and innovation. I am already looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace and the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. I am keen to learn more about the history of the Imperial family and explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the palace. And who knows, perhaps we'll even find another hidden gem or two along the way. To cap off the day, we might visit Bar K6 for a relaxing evening drink. I have heard great things about their cocktails, and it would be a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Kyoto continues to surprise and delight me at every turn, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Maximilian. Each day here feels like a new adventure, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Perhaps I will even get to use my Japanese skills, which I have been learning in Berlin. I find it so rewarding to be able to communicate with the locals in their own language, and it adds a deeper layer to my travel experiences.