Solo Cultural Odyssey: Discovering Kyoto

A Day Among Giants

Today, on the second day of my solo adventure in Kyoto, I traded the city's charming streets for the tranquil embrace of Arashiyama. It was a day filled with towering bamboo, serene gardens, and glimpses into the soul of traditional Japan. After a hearty breakfast at Hafuu, I was ready to explore.



The train ride to Arashiyama was a scenic prelude to the day, the landscape slowly transforming from urban sprawl to the gentle hills that cradle this famed district. I was particularly excited about visiting the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a place I’d seen countless photos of, but knew experiencing it in person would be something else entirely. The weather was crisp, a typical late February day, and I was glad I'd packed a scarf before leaving Berlin. I was especially grateful I hadn't forgotten my phrasebook, unlike my umbrella and portable phone charger. I made a mental note to pick those up tomorrow when I visit Kyoto LOFT, as indicated in tomorrow's itinerary.



As I stepped off the train, the air was noticeably fresher, carrying a hint of damp earth and the promise of something magical. I decided to start my day at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, hoping to beat the crowds I had read so much about. I wandered through the entrance, and was immediately enveloped in a sea of green. Towering bamboo stalks stretched towards the sky, their slender forms swaying gently in the breeze. The sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, casting dappled shadows on the path below. It was a truly surreal experience, like stepping into another world. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the sheer scale and beauty of nature.




Experience the serene beauty of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, where nature and tranquility come together in a breathtaking landscape.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After spending a good hour wandering through the bamboo grove, losing myself in its tranquil embrace, I made my way to Tenryu-ji Temple. This Zen temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is considered one of Kyoto's most important. I entered through the north gate, as suggested by some travel blogs, and was immediately struck by the temple's serene atmosphere. The Sogenchi Garden, created by Muso Soseki, was a masterpiece of landscape design, with its meticulously raked gravel, perfectly placed stones, and tranquil pond reflecting the surrounding hills. I spent a long time simply sitting on one of the benches, soaking in the beauty and tranquility of the garden. It was the perfect place to reflect on my journey so far, and to appreciate the simple beauty of the present moment.




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.

After exploring the garden, I ventured into the temple buildings themselves, admiring the intricate architecture and the beautiful artwork. I even took a peek at the Cloud-Dragon Painting in the Hatto (Dharma Hall). The temple buildings were occasionally closed without notice for special ceremonies and other activities, but thankfully, I was able to view it today. The sheer artistry and detail were captivating. It was a testament to the skill and dedication of the artisans who created it. I found myself completely absorbed in the rich history and spirituality of the place.



For lunch, I ventured to Yasakadori Enraku, a restaurant known for its Oden. I savored every bite, appreciating the subtle flavors and the artistry of the presentation. It was a delightful culinary experience that perfectly complemented the day's serene atmosphere. I learned that Yasakadori Enraku is located in Higashiyama-ku, and offers the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely lunch in private rooms, and that their signature menu item is Oden, a traditional Japanese hotpot dish. The broth was deeply infused, creating a delicious taste. After lunch, I continued my exploration of Arashiyama, heading towards the Okochi Sanso Garden.




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

This hidden gem was once the private villa of the famous silent film actor Denjiro Okochi, and it's now open to the public. As I wandered through the garden's winding paths, I felt like I was stepping back in time, into a world of elegance and refinement. The gardens were meticulously manicured, with moss-covered stones, perfectly pruned trees, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. I explored several tea houses and pavilions, each offering a unique perspective of the landscape. I reached the highest point of the garden, I was rewarded with a panoramic view of Kyoto and the Hozu River. It was a truly breathtaking sight, and I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience such beauty.



One of the highlights of my visit to Okochi Sanso Garden was the complimentary matcha tea and sweet treat that came with the admission. I sat in a traditional tea house, sipping the warm, slightly bitter tea and savoring the delicate sweetness of the mochi. It was the perfect way to end my visit to the garden, and to reflect on the day's experiences. I felt a sense of peace and contentment wash over me, a feeling that I knew I would carry with me long after I left Kyoto.



Before heading back to the hotel, I decided to do a little shopping at Souvenir Kyoto. I wanted to find a small memento of my time in Arashiyama. I picked up a beautiful hand-painted fan, its delicate design capturing the essence of the bamboo grove. I also bought a few small trinkets for Sophie, knowing she'd love them. I almost picked up some Kiyomizu-yaki pottery, but decided against it, knowing I'd be visiting the eastern Higashiyama District around Kiyomizudera later in the trip.




Discover unique Japanese souvenirs and cultural treasures at Souvenir Kyoto, where every item tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship.

As evening approached, I found myself at The Common One Bar Kyoto, seeking a place to unwind and reflect on the day. This modern bar is known for its traditional Kyoto atmosphere, featuring tatami rooms and a tea room. I enjoyed a carefully crafted cocktail, savoring the unique blend of flavors and the peaceful ambiance of the bar. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.




Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at The Common One Bar, where tradition meets innovation in every cocktail.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Kyoto Imperial Palace and the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, immersing myself further in the history and culture of this fascinating city. I'm also looking forward to trying Arash's Kitchen for breakfast, Jiki Miyazawa for lunch, and Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi for dinner, as well as doing some shopping at Kyoto LOFT, and maybe grabbing a drink at Bar K6. As I prepare for another day of adventure, I feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of Kyoto. It's a journey that is nourishing my soul and expanding my understanding of the world. It's experiences like these that make me so happy I decided to leave my teaching job, and see the world!



I was also happy to learn that, back in Berlin, Hans had managed to fix the leaky faucet in the kitchen. It's the little things, isn't it?



I also learned that if I had been here on February 3rd, I could have attended the Setsubun celebration at Tenryu-ji Temple, but I'll have to save that for another trip. According to the Kyoto City Official Travel Guide, there are events going on all the time here.