Cultural Immersion in Kyoto: A Journey Through Time

Whispers of the Bamboo Forest

Today, Olivia and I traded the structured streets of Kyoto for the natural embrace of Arashiyama. It was a day filled with whispering bamboo, ancient serenity, and a healthy dose of monkey business – quite literally. I'm always looking for that perfect blend of nature and culture, and Arashiyama delivered in spades.



The day began, as all good days should, with a hearty breakfast. We ventured to AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO, a vegan restaurant that promised a guilt-free start to our explorations. I must admit, I'm not usually one for vegan cuisine, but Olivia insisted, and I'm always up for trying new things. The restaurant was tucked away on a quiet backstreet, a peaceful escape from the city buzz. I opted for their famous vegan pancakes, and Olivia, ever the adventurous one, chose the taco rice. The pancakes were surprisingly delightful, fluffy and light, living up to their 'heavenly' reputation. Olivia enjoyed her taco rice, remarking on the Japanese twist on a familiar dish. It was a great start to the day, fueling us for the adventures ahead.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

Our first stop was the famed Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Stepping into the grove felt like entering another world. Towering stalks of bamboo swayed gently in the breeze, creating a mesmerizing symphony of rustling leaves. The sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, casting an ethereal green glow on everything. It was serene, almost spiritual. We walked hand-in-hand, lost in the tranquility of the moment, snapping photos and simply soaking it all in. The forest was more crowded than I had anticipated, but even the presence of other tourists couldn't diminish the magic of the place. I couldn't help but think that Évora, with all its history, would benefit from a similar natural sanctuary.


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

Emerging from the bamboo forest, we found ourselves near Tenryu-ji Temple, a Zen temple with a rich history. Founded in 1339 by Ashikaga Takauji, it was dedicated to Emperor Go-Daigo. The temple has been rebuilt several times over the centuries due to fires and wars, but its beauty and significance remain undiminished. We wandered through the temple grounds, admiring the traditional architecture and the meticulously manicured gardens. The Sogenchi Garden, created by Muso Soseki, was particularly stunning. Its use of 'borrowed scenery' – incorporating the surrounding mountains into the garden's design – was a stroke of genius. I found myself reflecting on the parallels between Zen gardens and the minimalist aesthetic that Olivia often employs in her graphic designs. It's all about finding beauty in simplicity.


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.

For lunch, we decided to try Tategami, a restaurant recommended for its traditional Japanese cuisine. We wanted to experience the local flavors, and Tategami seemed like the perfect place to do so. The restaurant had a cozy, authentic feel, and the menu featured a variety of local specialties. I opted for a set meal with tempura and soba noodles, while Olivia chose the grilled fish. The food was delicious, fresh, and beautifully presented. It was a welcome respite after our morning explorations. As much as I love trying new things, sometimes I crave a good, hearty *cozido à portuguesa*. Maybe I can find a Japanese equivalent before the trip is over.


Experience authentic Kyoto-style Japanese cuisine at Tategami - where tradition meets innovation in every bite.

Our final attraction of the day was Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama. I had read mixed reviews about the park, with some raising ethical concerns about keeping wild monkeys in a tourist attraction. However, I was curious to see it for myself. The park is located on a mountain, requiring a steep 20-30 minute climb to reach the monkey enclosure. The climb was definitely a workout, but the views from the top were worth it. As we reached the summit, we were greeted by a troop of Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys. They roamed freely around the area, seemingly unfazed by the presence of humans. We bought some monkey food (peanuts and apple slices) and entered the feeding area. It was quite an experience to have these wild animals approach us, reaching out for the treats. While it was fun to interact with the monkeys, I couldn't shake off the feeling that something was not quite right. Seeing these creatures so accustomed to humans, so reliant on being fed, felt a bit unnatural. I made a mental note to do more research on the ethical implications of such attractions.


Discover the enchanting world of Japanese macaques at Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, a must-visit wildlife haven in Kyoto, Japan.

After descending from the monkey park, we decided to do some shopping. We stopped by the MoMA Design Store Kyoto, hoping to find some unique souvenirs. The store was a treasure trove of modern art and design, featuring everything from home decor to stationery. Olivia, with her keen eye for design, was in her element. I found myself admiring the innovative and functional items, appreciating the blend of art and everyday life. We ended up buying a few small items – a quirky desk organizer for me and a set of colorful pens for Olivia.


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

As the day drew to a close, we sought out a place for dinner. We decided on Arash's Kitchen, a restaurant offering Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian cuisine. After days of Japanese food, we were both craving something different. The restaurant was named after its owner, Arash, who was incredibly welcoming and fluent in both English and Japanese. I ordered the chicken kebab, while Olivia chose the vegetarian curry. The food was delicious, flavorful, and satisfying. It felt like a comforting taste of home, a welcome change from the unfamiliar flavors we had been experiencing. Arash's Kitchen was a delightful surprise, a reminder that even in the heart of Japan, you can find culinary gems from around the world.


Experience authentic Asian cuisine at Arash's Kitchen in Kyoto—a culinary delight for every traveler seeking unique flavors.

Finally, we ended our day at The Common One Bar Kyoto. It was a small, intimate bar with a cozy atmosphere. I opted for a local whisky, while Olivia tried a cocktail with matcha. We chatted about our day, sharing our favorite moments and reflecting on our experiences. The bar was a perfect spot to unwind and soak in the ambiance of Kyoto. It was a great way to end our second day in Japan. As we walked back to our hotel, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey with Olivia. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Ryoan-ji Temple, and Ninna-ji Temple. I wonder what wonders await us.


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

Today was a day of contrasts – the serenity of the bamboo forest, the ancient history of Tenryu-ji Temple, the playful antics of the monkeys, and the vibrant energy of Kyoto's streets. It was a day that challenged my perspectives, broadened my horizons, and deepened my appreciation for the beauty and complexity of Japan. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.