Nathalie's Solo Cultural Exploration in Kyoto

Whispers of the Past

Today, I embraced the quiet side of Kyoto, a day dedicated to reflection and the simple beauty that permeates this ancient city. My journey took me along paths walked by philosophers and through gardens designed to inspire contemplation. It was a day to slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the subtle magic that Kyoto holds.

My day began with breakfast at Hanasaki. Opting for a traditional Japanese breakfast, I savored each meticulously prepared dish. The delicate flavors and the artful presentation were a delightful start to a day focused on mindful exploration. I find that starting the day with a traditional meal really sets the tone for cultural immersion. It's a small detail, but it makes a big difference in how I connect with a place.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set out for the Philosopher's Path. As I understand it, the Philosopher's Path is a serene canal-side walk that follows in the footsteps of the philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who apparently used to meditate along this route. The path is lined with cherry trees, and while they weren't yet in full bloom, the subtle promise of spring hung in the air. I could envision the explosion of pink that would soon transform this tranquil walkway. Despite the season, the path held a quiet charm, with the gentle sound of the water accompanying my thoughts. I thought about Hans and Sophie back home in Sarnen. I am already looking forward to telling them about this serene walk.


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

I strolled along the path, pausing to admire the small shops and cafes that dotted the route. Each one seemed to offer a glimpse into the local life, a moment of connection with the people who call Kyoto home. I resisted the urge to stop, knowing that I wanted to dedicate my time to the path itself, to the quiet contemplation it offered.

The quiet beauty of Kyoto invites a deeper understanding, a connection to the past, and a peaceful contemplation of the present.

The Philosopher's Path eventually led me to Nanzen-ji Temple, a Zen Buddhist temple known for its stunning architecture and serene gardens. The temple was once Emperor Kameyama's retirement villa and it includes a temple hall and garden centered around a pond. I was immediately struck by the imposing Sanmon gate, a towering structure that seemed to guard the entrance to a sacred space. I paid the entrance fee and climbed the stairs, eager to see the panoramic view of Kyoto from above.


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

The view was breathtaking. From the height of the gate, I could see the sprawling temple complex below, the city stretching out towards the horizon, and the mountains in the distance. It was a moment of perspective, a reminder of the vastness of the world and the smallness of my place within it. I thought of my work at the historical archives back in Sarnen. I find it so rewarding to help preserve the stories of the past, to connect with the people who came before us. Standing there, overlooking Kyoto, I felt a similar connection to history, a sense of being part of something larger than myself.

I descended from the gate and wandered through the temple grounds, exploring the various halls and gardens. The Hojo Garden was a particular highlight, a meticulously designed Zen garden that invited contemplation. The carefully raked gravel, the strategically placed rocks, and the pruned trees created a sense of harmony and balance. I sat on a bench, closed my eyes, and listened to the sounds of the garden – the rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, the gentle breeze. It was a moment of pure peace, a respite from the noise and chaos of the world.

One of the unique features of Nanzen-ji is the Suirokaku Aqueduct, a brick structure built during the Meiji era. This aqueduct, built to carry water as part of the Lake Biwa Canal project, stands in stark contrast to the traditional temple architecture. It's a fascinating juxtaposition of old and new, a reminder of Kyoto's ability to blend tradition with innovation. I walked beneath the aqueduct, listening to the sound of the water flowing overhead, and marveled at the engineering feat. The aqueduct has been featured in movies such as *Lost in Translation*.

I also explored Nanzen-in. The garden was especially pretty and dates from the 14th century, and is one of Kyoto's most popular spots for viewing fall colors. It is said that the Nanzen-in garden is a true representation of Kamakura period style. The garden also features a pond in the shape of a dragon called Sogen-ike Pond, believed to have been designed by retired Emperor Kameyama himself. I found the whole experience very serene and peaceful.

As the afternoon wore on, I decided to indulge in a bit of shopping. I made my way to Kyoto LOFT. I browsed the various floors, admiring the unique and quirky items on display. I picked up a few small souvenirs for Hans and Sophie, little reminders of my time in Kyoto. I am sure Sophie will love the cute stationary items.


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 French Dining Top of Kyoto, a revolving restaurant located on the 14th floor of the Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto. I was intrigued by the idea of enjoying French cuisine with a panoramic view of the city. As I sat down at my table, the restaurant slowly began to rotate, offering a 360-degree vista of Kyoto. The city lights twinkled below, creating a magical atmosphere.


Discover the exquisite flavors of French cuisine at French Dining Top of Kyoto – where culinary artistry meets stunning views.

The food was exquisite, a fusion of French techniques and Japanese ingredients. Each dish was a work of art, both visually and gastronomically. The service was impeccable, attentive without being intrusive. The staff explained each course in detail, enhancing my appreciation of the flavors and textures. The restaurant itself is adorned with hand-printed traditional Japanese paper from Kira Karacho, a historic paper shop founded in 1624, creating a unique and elegant atmosphere. It was the perfect way to end a day of reflection and exploration. The views were matched only by classic offerings from the chef's French menu.

As I returned to the Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier, I felt a sense of contentment. Today had been a journey inward, a chance to connect with myself and with the spirit of Kyoto. I had walked in the footsteps of philosophers, explored serene gardens, and savored the city's culinary delights. It was a day I would long remember.


Experience Kyoto's charm at Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Premier – a serene riverside retreat with modern comforts and easy access to attractions.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Ryoan-ji and Kinkaku-ji, two more of Kyoto's iconic landmarks. I am also planning to have dinner at Teppanyaki Minami. I am excited to see what new discoveries await me. I also plan to check out the Turquoise Bar for a nightcap. For now, though, I am content to rest and reflect on the day's experiences.

Before drifting off to sleep, I took a moment to look over my guidebook. It seems that there was a Nagashibina Ceremony held today at the Shimogamo Shrine, which is one of the harbingers of spring in Kyoto. It involves floating paper dolls down a river to ward off misfortune. It sounds like it was quite moving, and I will have to look into it for my next trip! I also learned about the Spring Doll Exhibition at Hokyoji Temple. I will have to make sure to visit that as well.

Good night from Kyoto.