Solo Cultural Exploration in Kyoto: Discovering Japan's Timeless Elegance

Kyoto's Enchanting Embrace: A Day in Arashiyama

Today was a day of serene beauty and historical exploration in Arashiyama, a district that truly captures the essence of Kyoto's charm. From iconic landmarks to tranquil gardens, every corner of this area seems to whisper tales of emperors, artists, and monks. I was eager to explore, and Arashiyama certainly didn't disappoint.



My day began with a hearty breakfast at Hyoto Shijo Karasuma. While the hotel itself doesn't offer breakfast, they have an arrangement with a nearby Doutor Coffee Shop, which was just a short walk away. It was a simple yet satisfying start to the day, fueling me up for the adventures that lay ahead. I savored a morning set of ham and egg salad, which was the perfect way to prepare for a day of exploration. The cafe was cozy and welcoming, and I enjoyed watching the locals start their day as I planned mine.



With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I made my way to Arashiyama. The train ride itself was a treat, offering glimpses of the Kyoto countryside waking up. As I stepped off the train, the crisp morning air and the promise of natural beauty invigorated me.



My first stop was the famed Togetsukyo Bridge. Spanning the Katsura River, this bridge is more than just a crossing; it's a symbol of Arashiyama. The name Togetsukyo, meaning Moon-Crossing Bridge, comes from Emperor Kameyama's poetic observation that the moon appeared to be crossing the bridge on a clear night. While the current bridge was reconstructed in 1934 using steel-reinforced concrete, it still maintains a traditional aesthetic, with wooden railings that blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. I strolled along the bridge, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the gentle flow of the river. It was easy to imagine emperors of old enjoying the same vista.


Discover the stunning Togetsukyō Bridge in Kyoto, where natural beauty meets rich cultural history amidst breathtaking landscapes.

The history of Togetsukyo Bridge stretches back to the Heian period, with the first bridge built in 836. Throughout the centuries, it has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, serving as a vital link for locals and a source of inspiration for artists and poets. The bridge is also known as Horinji Bridge. I spent some time watching the boats drift along the river, and even spotted a few people enjoying rickshaw rides, which added to the nostalgic atmosphere. It was the perfect spot to simply pause and appreciate the beauty of the moment.

The true beauty of Arashiyama lies not just in its famous landmarks, but in the serene harmony between nature and history that permeates every corner of this enchanting district.

Next on my itinerary was the Okochi Sanso Garden. This garden was once the estate of Denjiro Okochi, a famous Japanese film actor. As I approached the garden, I walked through a portion of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, which was magical. The towering bamboo stalks created a mesmerizing tunnel of green, filtering the sunlight and casting dappled shadows on the path. It was a truly enchanting experience, and it set the perfect tone for what was to come.


Discover the serene beauty of Okochi Sanso Garden in Kyoto, a hidden gem blending nature, history, and culture in perfect harmony.

The Okochi Sanso Garden is a testament to Okochi's artistic vision and his love for nature. The garden is designed as a strolling garden, with a winding path that leads visitors through a variety of landscapes, including a moss garden, a tea room, and several viewpoints offering stunning panoramas of Kyoto and the Hozu River. The attention to detail was remarkable, from the meticulously manicured plants to the strategically placed stones and lanterns.



I particularly enjoyed the tea house, where I paused to savor a cup of matcha tea and a traditional Japanese sweet. It was a moment of pure tranquility, and I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience such a beautiful and peaceful place. The late afternoon sun filtered through the leaves, casting long shadows and creating a sense of warmth and serenity. The garden truly felt like a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city.



My final stop for the day was Daikaku-ji Temple. Originally built as the villa of Emperor Saga in the early 800s, it was later converted into a temple by his daughter, Empress Masako. The temple has played a significant role in Japanese history, serving as a residence for retired emperors and hosting important peace talks. It is also featured in The Tale of Genji, one of the earliest novels ever written.


Discover the tranquil beauty and rich history of Daikaku-ji Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary in Kyoto, surrounded by stunning gardens and architecture.

One of the highlights of Daikaku-ji is Osawa Pond, a man-made lake that dates back to the Heian period. It is one of the oldest surviving garden ponds in Japan and was designed to be viewed from a boat. Although boat rides weren't available today, I enjoyed walking around the pond, taking in the reflections of the surrounding trees and buildings. The pond was designed by Emperor Saga to reflect the Dongting Lake in China. The temple is also known as Saga Rikyū imperial villa. The serene atmosphere and the historical significance of the site made it a truly special place to visit. Daikakuji consists of several buildings connected by elevated wooden walkways. It's also home to the Saga Goryu school of ikebana.



Before heading back to the hotel, I decided to do a little shopping at Kyoto LOFT. This multi-story emporium is a treasure trove of contemporary Japanese lifestyle products, from innovative home goods to trendy stationery and unique gifts. I picked up a few souvenirs for Jean-Pierre and myself, including a beautiful set of chopsticks and some traditional Japanese paper.


Explore Kyoto LOFT: A vibrant general store with cosmetics, home goods, and unique novelties in the heart of Kyoto.

For dinner, I had made a reservation at Jiki Miyazawa, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative Kyoto kaiseki cuisine. The restaurant is small and intimate, with only counter seats, which allowed me to watch the chefs at work. I opted for the omakase menu, which featured a series of exquisitely prepared dishes that showcased the flavors of the season. I tasted sesame tofu, and sake. Each course was a work of art, both visually and gastronomically, and the service was impeccable. It was truly a memorable dining experience, and a perfect way to end my day in Arashiyama.


Indulge in an authentic Kaiseki dining experience at Jiki Miyazawa, where seasonal flavors meet exquisite presentation in the heart of Kyoto.

As I made my way back to Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo, I reflected on the day's adventures. Arashiyama had exceeded all my expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural immersion. I felt grateful for the opportunity to explore this enchanting district and to share my experiences with all of you.


Discover the perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional charm at Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo, just steps away from Kyoto's vibrant attractions.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Fushimi Inari Taisha, Uji, and Byodoin. I am particularly excited about visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha with its thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding up the mountainside. And perhaps I'll treat myself to a drink at Kyoto Star Bar in the evening. I'm looking forward to another day of discovery and adventure in this beautiful country.