Solo Cultural Exploration in Kyoto, Japan

Golden Reflections and Silent Stones

Today was a day of profound reflection amidst the shimmering gold and tranquil gardens of Kyoto. It was a journey into the heart of Japanese spirituality and aesthetics, a day where the hustle of Berlin seemed a world away. I traded the echoes of German idioms for the whispers of ancient temples, finding peace in the deliberate artistry of Zen.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Goichi Pizza. It might seem strange to start a day of traditional Japanese sightseeing with pizza, but I've learned that travel is about embracing the unexpected. Besides, a good slice fuels the soul for a day of exploration!


Discover the delicious fusion of Italian tradition and local flavors at Goichi Pizza in Kyoto - an unmissable dining experience!

After breakfast, I headed towards the legendary Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. Even though I'd seen countless photos, nothing prepared me for the sheer brilliance of the temple reflecting on the water. The sun seemed to dance on its golden surface, creating an ethereal glow that was simply breathtaking. I spent a long time simply sitting by the pond, soaking in the view and trying to capture the moment with my camera.


Explore Kinkaku-ji, the breathtaking Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, where history and nature blend beautifully in a tranquil setting.

The crowds were considerable, a testament to Kinkaku-ji's popularity, but even amidst the throng, there was a sense of reverence. People spoke in hushed tones, their faces lit by the golden light. It reminded me of the quiet awe I often feel when visiting the cathedrals in Europe, a shared understanding of something greater than ourselves. I found a quiet spot away from the main path and closed my eyes, listening to the gentle lapping of the water and the distant chirping of birds. It was a moment of pure serenity.

From the shimmering spectacle of Kinkaku-ji, I journeyed to the more understated beauty of Ryoan-ji. This Zen garden is famous for its enigmatic arrangement of fifteen rocks, set in a sea of meticulously raked gravel. The beauty lies in its simplicity, in the space it creates for contemplation. As an ESL teacher, I am accustomed to explaining and clarifying, but Ryoan-ji invited me to simply be, to observe without needing to understand everything. I sat on the wooden veranda, gazing at the garden, and let my mind wander. Some say that only fourteen of the fifteen rocks can be seen at any one time, a metaphor for the incompleteness of life. Whether that's true or not, the garden certainly sparked a lot of thought.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Ryōan-ji in Kyoto, a renowned Zen temple known for its iconic rock garden and rich cultural heritage.

The quieter you become, the more you can hear.

Lunch at Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi was a welcome break. I decided to try their famed hamburg steak, a popular dish in Japan that blends Western and Eastern flavors. It was absolutely delicious, a comforting and satisfying meal that prepared me for the afternoon's adventures. I enjoyed watching the locals during my lunch, seeing families laughing together, and couples enjoying a quiet meal. It reminded me of the simple joys of life back in Berlin with Greta, and I made a mental note to call her later and share my experiences.


Experience Kyoto's vibrant food scene with authentic yakiniku at Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi, where every bite tells a delicious story.

My final stop of the day was Daitoku-ji Temple, a sprawling complex of sub-temples, each with its own unique character and gardens. I decided to explore the smaller, lesser-known temples, seeking out the hidden corners and quiet courtyards. I stumbled upon a beautiful tea garden, where I watched a gardener meticulously pruning a bonsai tree. His movements were so precise and deliberate, each snip of the shears a testament to years of training and dedication. It was a reminder that beauty can be found in the smallest of details, in the everyday acts of care and attention.


Explore the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Daitoku-ji Temple, a historic Buddhist temple complex in Kyoto, Japan.

One of the sub-temples, Koto-in, was particularly captivating. The approach to Koto-in is along a straight path flanked by maple trees that, while not yet in their full autumn splendor, offered a tantalizing glimpse of the colors to come later in the year. The temple itself is known for its moss garden and the tomb of the famous samurai, Hosokawa Tadaoki, and his wife, Gracia. I spent some time wandering the serene grounds, feeling a sense of peace settle over me.

As the day drew to a close, I found myself at The Common One Bar Kyoto. I wanted to experience a bit of Kyoto's nightlife, and this place came highly recommended. It was a cozy spot, with a relaxed atmosphere and a good selection of local beers and sake. I struck up a conversation with a local artist, who shared his insights on Kyoto's art scene and recommended some galleries to visit. It's these unexpected encounters that make travel so rewarding, the chance to connect with people from different backgrounds and perspectives.


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

Reflecting on the day, I realize how much Kyoto has already captivated me. The blend of ancient traditions and modern life is fascinating, and the city seems to whisper stories from centuries past. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings, with my planned visit to the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Tenryu-ji Temple. The thought of wandering through towering bamboo stalks fills me with anticipation, and I am eager to experience the natural beauty of this iconic landscape.

Before heading back to my hotel, I took a leisurely stroll along the Kamogawa River, watching the city lights twinkle on the water. The cool evening breeze was refreshing, and I felt a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Kyoto has a way of slowing you down, of inviting you to appreciate the present moment. It is a city that nourishes the soul, a place where you can find peace and inspiration in equal measure.

I am also grateful that I didn’t forget any essentials today, after my blunder yesterday. As I prepare for another day of exploration, I'm reminded of a German idiom Greta taught me: Alles hat ein Ende, nur die Wurst hat zwei (Everything has an end, only the sausage has two). It's a reminder to savor every moment, because even the best journeys eventually come to an end. But for now, I am content to immerse myself in the beauty and culture of Kyoto, one golden temple and silent garden at a time.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Tenryu-ji Temple, and Sogenchi Teien. Before that, I'll grab breakfast at Kyoto cuisine Hanasaki Nishikiten. I am looking forward to another day of cultural immersion, and I'll be sure to share all my experiences with you!

Good night from Kyoto!