Solo Cultural Exploration in Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto's Bamboo Embrace

Today, I ventured into the enchanting Arashiyama district, a realm where the whispers of bamboo and the echoes of ancient Zen resonate deeply. It was a day of serene exploration, a journey that touched my soul and reminded me of the simple joys of immersing oneself in nature's embrace. Leaving the familiar streets of Kyoto behind, I found myself transported to a world where time seemed to slow, and the rustling leaves told stories of centuries past.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Kyoto cuisine Hanasaki Nishikiten. I wanted to fuel up for the day ahead with a traditional Japanese meal. The restaurant was tucked away near Nishiki Market, exuding the charm of an old townhouse. The food was amazing, and the service was great. It was the perfect start to my day.

From there, I hopped on a train to Arashiyama. As the train pulled into Saga-Arashiyama Station, the air felt different—fresher, calmer. The transition from Berlin's urban energy to Kyoto's tranquil outskirts always amazes me. It's a stark reminder of how diverse our world is, and how enriching it is to experience these contrasts.

The main attraction, of course, was the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. As I stepped onto the path, I was immediately enveloped by towering stalks of bamboo, their green leaves creating a mesmerizing canopy overhead. Sunlight filtered through the dense foliage, casting dappled shadows on the ground. The air was filled with a gentle rustling sound, as if the bamboo itself was whispering secrets. I must say, it was quite busy, even on a Sunday. Still, I was able to capture some great photos.


Discover the serene beauty of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, a tranquil escape filled with towering bamboo groves and enchanting pathways.

Beauty surrounds us, but usually we need to be walking in a garden to know it.

I spent a considerable amount of time wandering through the grove, pausing to take in the beauty and tranquility. It was a truly immersive experience, one that transported me far away from the hustle and bustle of city life. It reminded me of the lush landscapes of Saint Lucia, though with a uniquely Japanese aesthetic. I couldn't help but think how much Greta would have loved this place. I made a mental note to bring her here someday. The walk was so magical, I was even inspired to try my hand at Haiku:

    Green stalks reach the sky,
    Whispering winds through the grove,
    Peace fills up my soul.

Emerging from the bamboo forest, I made my way to Tenryu-ji, a Zen temple of great historical significance. Founded in 1339, it is one of Kyoto's Five Great Zen Temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple's Sogenchi Teien (garden) is a masterpiece of landscape design, created by the renowned Zen master Muso Soseki. As I strolled through the garden, I was struck by its serene beauty. The pond, with its carefully arranged rocks and meticulously manicured trees, reflected the surrounding mountains, creating a sense of harmony and balance. It felt like a living painting, each element carefully placed to evoke a sense of peace and contemplation.


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.

I paused for a moment to sit on the veranda of the main hall, gazing out at the garden. The gentle breeze rustled the leaves, and the sound of birds chirping filled the air. It was a moment of perfect tranquility, a chance to clear my mind and connect with nature. I thought about my students back in Berlin, many of whom are struggling to adapt to a new culture and language. I realized that this experience – immersing oneself in a different culture – can be both challenging and rewarding. It requires patience, open-mindedness, and a willingness to embrace the unknown.

Lunch was at Arash's Kitchen, a Persian and Indian Halal restaurant. It might seem odd to eat Persian food in Japan, but I was curious to try it. The food was delicious, and the owner, Arash, was incredibly welcoming. We chatted for a while about our shared love of travel and cultural exchange. He told me about his journey from Iran to Japan, and how he had built a successful business by sharing his culinary heritage. It was inspiring to hear his story, and it reminded me of the importance of connecting with people from different backgrounds.


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

After lunch, I decided to visit Noren by Corazon, a shop known for its cool, contemporary, and beautifully designed souvenirs. I wanted to find a unique memento of my trip, something that would remind me of the beauty and tranquility of Arashiyama. The shop was filled with an array of handcrafted items, from textiles to ceramics to paper goods. I ended up buying a small noren (a traditional Japanese fabric divider) with a delicate bamboo motif. It will look perfect in our Berlin apartment, a subtle reminder of my time in Kyoto.


Explore Noren by Corazon in Kyoto for unique souvenirs that reflect the city's rich culture and craftsmanship.

Before heading back to Kyoto, I made one last stop at Sogenchi Teien, wanting to soak in its beauty one last time. The garden looked different in the afternoon light, with the shadows lengthening and the colors deepening. I found a quiet spot near the pond and sat down to write in my journal. As I reflected on the day's experiences, I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to travel and explore new cultures. It's a privilege that I don't take for granted, and I always try to make the most of it.

Dinner was at THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO, an Italian restaurant housed in a beautifully preserved traditional building. The restaurant was once the residence of a famous Japanese painter, and it retained much of its original charm. The food was excellent, a fusion of Italian and Japanese flavors. It was a perfect way to end the day, a celebration of cultural exchange and culinary innovation.


Discover the perfect blend of Italian culinary artistry and traditional Japanese ambiance at The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto.

As I made my way back to the hotel, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today had been a reminder of the simple joys of life – the beauty of nature, the richness of culture, and the connections we make with others along the way. Tomorrow, I plan to visit Kiyomizu-dera and explore the charming streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka. I'm also hoping to find a cozy bar for a nightcap. Until then, I'll cherish the memories of this day, the whispers of bamboo echoing in my heart.

It's moments like these that make me realize how lucky I am to be able to travel and share my experiences with others. As an ESL teacher, I often encourage my students to step outside their comfort zones and embrace new cultures. It's not always easy, but it's always worth it. And who knows, maybe one day I'll bring a group of them here to Arashiyama, so they can experience the magic for themselves.

The journey continues, and I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings. But for now, I'll rest, recharge, and dream of bamboo forests and ancient temples. Goodnight from Kyoto!