Exploring Kyoto's Historical Wonders with Friends

Whispers of the Past, Flavors of the Present

Today was a day of gentle exploration and delightful culinary experiences, a perfect blend that allowed me to soak in the essence of Kyoto. With my friends, I ventured into the heart of this ancient city, discovering hidden gems and savoring flavors that danced on my palate. It was a day where the whispers of the past intertwined seamlessly with the vibrant energy of the present.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling meats filled the air, awakening my senses. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day with a delicious meal. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and fluffy rice. It was a delightful start to our Kyoto adventure, providing the fuel we needed for a day of exploration.


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

With our stomachs content, we set out to explore the famed Philosopher's Path. This serene walkway, tracing a canal lined with cherry trees, offered a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. As we strolled along the path, the gentle sound of the flowing water and the rustling of leaves created a soothing symphony. It was easy to see why this path was named after a philosopher; the peaceful atmosphere invited contemplation and reflection. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of blooming flowers, and the sunlight filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the path. It was a truly magical experience, one that transported me to a different realm.


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

The Philosopher's Path, or *Tetsugaku no Michi* as it's known in Japanese, is more than just a scenic route; it's a journey through history and nature. The path got its name from Nishida Kitaro, a renowned Japanese philosopher who used to meditate while walking this route on his daily commute to Kyoto University. I could almost imagine him strolling along the path, lost in thought, as he pondered the mysteries of the universe. The canal itself is part of the Lake Biwa Canal, constructed during the Meiji Period to enhance transportation and provide Kyoto with additional water. This feat of engineering is a testament to Japan's ingenuity and resourcefulness.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not only in its grand temples and shrines but also in its quiet corners, where one can find solace and inspiration.

As we continued our walk, we encountered numerous temples and shrines, each with its own unique charm and history. One that particularly caught my eye was Honen-in Temple, known for its spectacular entrance gate. The intricate details and the serene atmosphere of the temple grounds were captivating. I took a moment to close my eyes and listen to the gentle breeze rustling through the trees, feeling a sense of peace wash over me. It was a reminder to slow down and appreciate the simple things in life.

Our next destination was Nanzen-ji Temple, a Zen Buddhist temple with a rich history dating back to the 13th century. Emperor Kameyama built his retirement villa at the temple's present location and later converted it into a Zen temple. The temple's central grounds are open to the public free of charge, but we decided to pay the separate fees to enter the temple buildings and subtemples. The massive Sanmon entrance gate was an impressive sight, towering over the treetops. Constructed in 1628, the gate commemorates soldiers who died in the siege of Osaka Castle in 1615. We climbed to the gate's balcony, where we were rewarded with a panoramic view of the city.


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

Outside the Hojo, we were surprised to find a large brick aqueduct, a remnant of the Meiji Period. This aqueduct, part of a canal system connecting Kyoto and Lake Biwa, was an unexpected sight within the temple grounds. It was a reminder of how Kyoto has seamlessly blended its historical heritage with modern advancements. Nanzen-in Temple, one of Nanzen-ji's subtemples, was another highlight. Situated on the former location of Emperor Kameyama's retirement villa, it features a mausoleum, a temple hall, and a serene garden centered around a pond.

After immersing ourselves in the tranquility of Nanzen-ji, our stomachs began to rumble, signaling lunchtime. We made our way to Goichi Pizza, a local pizzeria known for its authentic stone-oven pizzas. The aroma of freshly baked dough and melting cheese wafted through the air, enticing us as we approached. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with wooden tables and warm lighting. I ordered a classic Margherita pizza, and it was simply divine. The crust was perfectly crispy, the sauce was tangy and flavorful, and the mozzarella cheese was creamy and melted in my mouth. It was the perfect comfort food after a morning of exploration.


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

With renewed energy, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at Rōji Tempo, a charming shopping street. Recreating the atmosphere of the Edo period (1603-1868), the street's dozen shops offered a glimpse into Kyoto's past. I picked up a few souvenirs for Sophie and Mateo, ensuring I brought a piece of Kyoto back to Montreal. Remembering how much Mateo loves Japanese sweets, I bought a selection of traditional candies, hoping they would bring a smile to his face.


Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Rōji Tempo, where Kyoto's rich culture meets modern retail in a beautiful setting.

As the day drew to a close, we treated ourselves to a memorable dinner at THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO. Nestled in a serene corner of the city, this restaurant exuded an air of elegance and sophistication. The ambiance was enchanting, with soft lighting, traditional Japanese decor, and a tranquil garden view. The menu featured a fusion of Italian and Japanese cuisine, and each dish was a work of art. I savored every bite, appreciating the delicate flavors and the exquisite presentation. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


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

Reflecting on the day's events, I realized how much Kyoto had already captivated me. From the tranquil Philosopher's Path to the majestic Nanzen-ji Temple, every corner of this city held a unique charm and a story to tell. The culinary delights we savored along the way only added to the experience, creating a symphony of flavors that danced on my palate. As I prepared for tomorrow's adventure, which includes a visit to Heian Shrine and the Kyoto Imperial Palace, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this enchanting city with my friends. I am also looking forward to ending the day at Bar K6.

Tonight, as I write this, I feel a sense of contentment wash over me. Kyoto has a way of slowing down time, allowing you to fully appreciate the present moment. It's a city that nourishes the soul and awakens the senses. And as I drift off to sleep, I can't help but wonder what other hidden treasures await me in this magical place. I am also glad that I packed my camera, so I can continue capturing these memories. I do regret not bringing sunscreen, as the sun was quite strong today, and I will need to remember to buy a travel adapter tomorrow, as my phone is running low on battery.

Tomorrow promises to be another day filled with historical exploration and cultural immersion. I am particularly excited to visit Heian Shrine, known for its vibrant colors and stunning architecture. And of course, I am eager to explore the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former residence of the Japanese Imperial family. It's moments like these that remind me why I love traveling so much – the opportunity to learn, to grow, and to connect with different cultures. And as I continue on this journey with my friends, I know that the memories we create will last a lifetime.