Cultural Immersion in Kyoto: A Journey Through Tradition and Modernity

A Day of Golden Reflections

Today marked the fourth day of our Kyoto adventure, and it was nothing short of spectacular. Greta and I set out to explore some of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks, each promising a unique glimpse into the city's rich history and spiritual heritage. From shimmering gold to tranquil stones, the day was a feast for the senses and a balm for the soul.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Goichi Pizza. Yes, you read that right – pizza in Kyoto! We decided to try something a little different, and it turned out to be a delightful surprise. The pizza was delicious, baked in a stone oven with a chewy crust that won me over instantly. Greta enjoyed it too. It was a surprisingly cozy spot, perfect for fueling up before a day of exploring. I even overheard a staff member mention to another customer that they could order Pizza Hut during lunch hours, which I found quite amusing. It's nice to know there's a little taste of home, even in Kyoto.


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

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we made our way to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. The bus ride there was an experience in itself, navigating through the bustling city streets before arriving at the serene temple grounds. As we approached the pavilion, the sight was simply breathtaking. The Golden Pavilion stood shimmering in the winter sunlight, its reflection dancing on the surface of the pond. I've seen photos, of course, but nothing truly prepares you for the real thing. The way the gold leaf catches the light is mesmerizing, creating a scene of ethereal beauty.


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

We strolled around the pond, taking in the various angles of the pavilion. The gardens surrounding Kinkaku-ji are meticulously maintained, with carefully placed stones and pruned trees adding to the overall sense of tranquility. Despite the crowds, there was a palpable sense of peace here. We took our time, soaking in the beauty and snapping photos to capture the moment. I tried to imagine what it must have been like when the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu used this as his retirement villa back in the 14th century. It's easy to see why he chose this spot – it's a true sanctuary.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its temples and gardens, but in the way it invites you to slow down, breathe, and appreciate the present moment.

Leaving Kinkaku-ji, we headed to Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its enigmatic Zen garden. After the opulence of the Golden Pavilion, the stark simplicity of Ryoan-ji was a striking contrast. The garden consists of fifteen rocks arranged in five groups on a sea of white gravel. What makes it so intriguing is that you can never see all fifteen rocks at once from any single vantage point. It's said that only through enlightenment can one perceive the whole truth.


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

Greta and I sat on the wooden platform, contemplating the garden. The winter air was crisp and still, adding to the sense of quiet contemplation. We tried to decipher the meaning behind the arrangement of the rocks, but ultimately, it's a mystery. Perhaps that's the point. The garden invites you to reflect on your own perceptions and interpretations, rather than offering a definitive answer. It was a truly meditative experience, a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

After Ryoan-ji, we visited Ninna-ji Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage site. This temple has a long and distinguished history, with many of its abbots coming from the imperial family. The temple grounds were expansive, with beautiful buildings and gardens to explore. We visited the Kyōzō (Sutra Treasure House) and the Five-Story Pagoda, both of which were impressive examples of traditional Japanese architecture. The five-story pagoda was particularly striking, rising gracefully against the winter sky.


Discover the tranquility and beauty of Ninna-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, showcasing stunning architecture and serene gardens.

Ninna-ji felt different from the other temples we visited today. It had a sense of understated elegance and a connection to the imperial past. I learned that Ninna-ji is home to some of the oldest standing temple buildings in Japan. Although it wasn't cherry blossom season, I could imagine how beautiful the temple would be in spring, with the cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Before heading back to our Ryokan, we stopped by the Kyoto Crafts Store. I was hoping to find a unique souvenir to bring back home, something that captured the essence of our trip. The store was filled with beautiful handcrafted items, from delicate ceramics to intricate textiles. Greta was particularly drawn to the kimonos, admiring the intricate designs and vibrant colors. I ended up buying a small wooden carving of a fox, a symbol of good fortune in Japanese folklore. It will be a nice reminder of our time in Kyoto.


Explore the essence of Kyoto's artistry at the Kyoto Crafts Store, where traditional handicrafts meet contemporary charm.

For lunch, we grabbed a quick and satisfying meal at Katsukura - Kyoto Porta. Located conveniently at Kyoto Station, it was the perfect place to refuel after a morning of temple hopping. We both ordered their famous tonkatsu, and it was absolutely delicious. The pork cutlet was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the dipping sauce was perfectly balanced. I especially appreciated the fact that we could grind our own sesame seeds to add to the sauce – a nice touch that added to the overall experience. Greta enjoyed the Yuzu Salad Dressing for the cabbage salad. With unlimited refills of rice, miso soup and cabbage, it was exactly what we needed.


Discover authentic Tonkatsu at Katsukura - a must-visit Japanese restaurant in Kyoto offering delightful flavors in a modern setting.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Komefuku for dinner. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We ordered a selection of tempura and seafood dishes, all of which were fresh and flavorful. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Kyoto's cultural treasures. Greta was delighted with the tempura.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Komefuku in Kyoto, renowned for its fresh seafood and exquisite tempura dishes.

Reflecting on the day, I'm struck by the incredible diversity of experiences Kyoto has to offer. From the shimmering gold of Kinkaku-ji to the tranquil stones of Ryoan-ji, each site offered a unique perspective on Japanese culture and spirituality. It's a city that engages all the senses, inviting you to slow down, breathe, and appreciate the present moment.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Philosopher's Path, Ginkaku-ji (the Silver Pavilion), and Nanzen-ji Temple. I'm excited to see what new discoveries await us. We might even treat ourselves to a drink at The Common One Bar Kyoto in the evening.

As I sit here writing this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this amazing city with my wife. Kyoto is a place that stays with you long after you leave, its beauty and tranquility etched into your memory. And as we continue our journey, I'm excited to share more of our adventures with you.

The weather today was typical for January in Kyoto, with cold temperatures and a mix of sunshine and clouds. I am glad I had my light jacket with me!

“To travel is to take a journey into yourself.” I think this quote really encapsulates what I am experiencing on this trip.

Goodnight from Kyoto!