Solo Cultural Exploration in Kyoto, Japan

Finding Peace on the Philosopher's Path

Today was a day of gentle exploration, a deliberate slowing down to absorb the essence of Kyoto. It’s funny how travel can sometimes feel like a race, ticking off landmarks as if they were items on a grocery list. Today, I consciously resisted that urge, opting instead for a leisurely stroll through the city’s quieter corners. It was a day for reflection, for anime nostalgia, and for savoring the simple pleasures of Japanese cuisine.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya. I’d heard great things about their Kyoto-style okonomiyaki, and I was eager to try it. Unfortunately, it seems they're no longer catering to vegetarians or vegans, which was a bit of a letdown. So, I opted for something else nearby. It’s a shame, as I was looking forward to experiencing their take on this local favorite. But, ever adaptable, I found a charming little cafe nearby and enjoyed a traditional Japanese breakfast set. It was a comforting start to the day, fueling me for the adventures ahead.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set off towards the Philosopher's Path. The path, as I discovered, more than lived up to its tranquil reputation. The Philosopher's Path is a serene, stone-paved walkway that follows a canal in Kyoto's Higashiyama district. It got its name from Nishida Kitaro, a renowned Japanese philosopher who reportedly used this route for daily meditation during his commute to Kyoto University. As I ambled along, I could certainly see why he chose this spot for contemplation. The gentle murmur of the canal, the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees, and the absence of bustling crowds created an atmosphere of profound peace. It was the perfect antidote to the sometimes overwhelming energy of the city.


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

The path itself is about two kilometers long, stretching from Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) to the neighborhood near Nanzen-ji Temple. Though the cherry blossoms of early April were long gone, the lush greenery that remained was equally captivating. I paused frequently, simply to breathe in the fresh air and admire the scenery. Small shops and cafes dotted the path, offering tempting distractions, but I was determined to stay focused on my quest for tranquility. I did, however, make a mental note to return to one particularly charming tea house later in the day.

My first major stop along the Philosopher's Path was Eikandō Temple, formally known as Zenrinji Temple. This temple, belonging to the Jodo sect of Buddhism, is celebrated for its historical significance and its stunning seasonal beauty. Eikandō is particularly famous for its autumn foliage. Though it was still spring, the temple's serene gardens and impressive architecture were captivating. Founded in 853 CE, it has a rich history, evolving from a nobleman's residence to a significant center for Buddhist practice.


Discover the serene beauty of Eikandō Temple in Kyoto, a historic Buddhist site renowned for its stunning gardens and tranquil atmosphere.

The beauty of a place lies not just in what you see, but in how it makes you feel.

One of the temple's highlights is the Mikaeri Amida, a unique statue of Amida Buddha looking back over his shoulder. Legend says that as the monk Eikan was practicing, the statue turned and said, “Yokan, you are slow.” This statue is now a symbol of compassion, reminding us to look back at those we may have left behind. I found myself captivated by the story and the statue's unusual pose, a poignant reminder to consider others on my journey.

After Eikandō, I continued along the Philosopher's Path to Nanzen-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple that was once the retirement villa of Emperor Kameyama. Nanzen-ji is known for its beautiful gardens, its impressive Sanmon gate, and a unique brick aqueduct that's part of the Lake Biwa Canal system. The temple was originally built in 1264 as a villa for Emperor Gosaga, and later converted into a temple in 1291 by Emperor Kameyama. It has since become one of the most important Zen Buddhist temples in Japan.


Discover the tranquility of Nanzen-ji, a historic Buddhist temple complex in Kyoto, where spirituality meets stunning natural beauty.

The Sanmon gate, standing at 22 meters high, was built in 1628 to commemorate those who died in the Siege of Osaka Castle. I paid a small fee to climb to the top, where I was rewarded with a panoramic view of Kyoto. The city stretched out before me, a tapestry of ancient temples and modern buildings, all framed by the verdant hills. It was a breathtaking sight, a reminder of the city's enduring beauty and its seamless blend of old and new.

Exploring the grounds, I stumbled upon the Nanzen-ji Aqueduct, a European-style brick structure that carries water from the Lake Biwa Canal. It was an unexpected sight, a testament to Kyoto's embrace of innovation during the Meiji period. The aqueduct, built in 1890, is now a designated Civil Engineering Heritage Site and a popular spot for photographs.

Leaving Nanzen-ji, I decided to indulge my inner child with a visit to the Kyoto Station ASTY Kyoto Kyoani Goods Store. I am a big fan of Kyoto Animation, and I was excited to see if the pop-up shop was still open. I was in luck! I spent a happy hour browsing through the merchandise, admiring the artwork, and reminiscing about my favorite KyoAni series. I ended up buying a few keychains and a Violet Evergarden artbook – a perfect souvenir for a KyoAni enthusiast like myself.


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

For lunch, I ventured to Komefuku, a restaurant known for its tempura and seafood. I opted for a tempura lunch set, which was both delicious and reasonably priced. The tempura was light and crispy, the seafood was fresh, and the service was impeccable. It was a satisfying and authentic Japanese dining experience.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Komefuku in Kyoto, renowned for its fresh seafood and exquisite tempura dishes.

As evening approached, I made my way to Hafuu for dinner. This restaurant is renowned for its exquisite meat dishes, particularly its Wagyu beef. Securing a reservation was a bit of a challenge, but I was determined to try their famed steaks. The restaurant's ambiance was warm and inviting, a blend of traditional Japanese design and modern elegance. I opted for the Wagyu steak set menu, which included a variety of appetizers, a salad, and, of course, the star of the show: a perfectly cooked Wagyu steak. The steak was tender, juicy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. It was an indulgence, but one that was well worth it.


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

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, with its thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding up a mountainside, and the Gekkeikan Ōkura Sake Museum, to learn more about Japan's famous rice wine. And perhaps, if the mood strikes, I might just check out UNDERBAR-KYOTO for a nightcap.

As I reflect on my day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Kyoto has a way of slowing you down, of inviting you to appreciate the simple things in life. It’s a city that nourishes the soul, a place where ancient traditions meet modern sensibilities. And as I drift off to sleep, I know that tomorrow will bring new adventures, new discoveries, and new opportunities to fall in love with this enchanting city.