Solo Cultural Sojourn in Kyoto

Kyoto's Quiet Charms

Today was a day of gentle exploration, a deep dive into the quieter, more contemplative corners of Kyoto. It’s amazing how a city so steeped in history can still offer moments of serene discovery, away from the bustling tourist trails. I set out with a rough plan, but as always, Kyoto had a few surprises in store for me.

My day began with a delightful breakfast at Kizahashi. It was a traditional Japanese breakfast, and the presentation was exquisite. Each small dish was a work of art. The delicate flavors and textures were a wonderful way to start the day. I must admit that I am still getting used to having fish for breakfast, but I enjoyed it.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Kizahashi in Kyoto, where seasonal ingredients meet traditional artistry in every dish.

Heian Shrine: A Vermilion Greeting

The first stop was Heian Shrine. The massive torii gate, a vibrant vermilion, was visible from quite a distance, a striking contrast against the clear blue sky. As I approached, the sheer scale of the structure was impressive. It felt like stepping into another era. The shrine itself is relatively young, built to commemorate Kyoto's 1100th anniversary, but it echoes the grandeur of the Heian period. I wandered through the spacious courtyard, admiring the architecture and the sense of peace that permeated the air. I took my time admiring the beautiful architecture. I've been trying to improve my photography skills, and I think I got some great shots today.


Explore Heian Shrine in Kyoto for a serene experience of stunning gardens, rich history, and traditional Japanese architecture.

The Heian Shrine is known for its gardens, and while it's still early in March, I could see the promise of the cherry blossoms to come. I learned that the weeping cherry trees here bloom a bit later than others, making it a prime spot towards the end of the season. I made a mental note to try and return in April if I could. I strolled through the gardens imagining how beautiful they must be in full bloom.

Philosopher's Path: A Stroll to Remember

Next on my list was the Philosopher's Path. I took a bus to the northern end, near Ginkaku-ji (the Silver Pavilion), and began my walk south. The path follows a canal, and even without the cherry blossoms in full bloom, it was a lovely, tranquil experience. I could imagine the philosopher Nishida Kitaro taking his meditative strolls along this very path. The water gently flowing alongside the path was so peaceful. I passed a few small shops and cafes, each with its own unique charm.


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

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its grand temples, but in the quiet moments of reflection found along its serene paths.

The Philosopher's Path is about two kilometers long, and I took my time, enjoying the scenery and the fresh air. It’s funny, I didn’t realize how much I needed a break from the constant stimulation of city life until I found myself on this quiet path. I thought about David and Jasmine and how much they would have loved this. Perhaps next time, I will bring them along. I made a few detours to explore some of the smaller temples and shrines that dot the area. Each one had its own unique character and a sense of history that was palpable.

Nanzen-ji: Zen and the West

The Philosopher's Path eventually led me to Nanzen-ji Temple. This Zen temple is known for its beautiful gardens and its impressive Sanmon gate. I entered the complex and was immediately struck by the sense of serenity. The temple grounds are expansive, and there were many smaller sub-temples to explore. I paid the entrance fee to climb the Sanmon gate and was rewarded with a panoramic view of Kyoto. The city spread out before me, a mix of traditional architecture and modern buildings. It was a reminder of how Kyoto seamlessly blends the old and the new.


Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Nanzen-ji Temple, a stunning Buddhist sanctuary nestled in the heart of Kyoto's natural landscape.

One of the most unexpected sights at Nanzen-ji was the brick aqueduct, the Suirokaku. This structure, built in the Meiji era, was part of a project to bring water from Lake Biwa to Kyoto. It felt so out of place amidst the traditional temple buildings, but it was also a testament to Kyoto's ability to adapt and innovate. The aqueduct was built in the Roman style, and it was quite a sight to see. It was a reminder of how different cultures can come together in unexpected ways.

Lunch at French Dining Top of Kyoto: A Culinary Journey

For lunch, I decided to try something completely different: French Dining Top of Kyoto. This restaurant is located on the 14th floor of the Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto, and it's the only revolving restaurant in the city. The views were incredible, a 360-degree panorama of Kyoto's skyline. The food was excellent, a modern take on classic French cuisine. I had the lobster dish, which was bursting with flavor. It was a delightful experience, a culinary journey with a stunning backdrop. The restaurant slowly rotates, offering different views of the city. It was a truly unique dining experience. I enjoyed the Wagyu steak, which was cooked to perfection.


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

Maiko Antiques Kyoto: A Treasure Trove

After lunch, I decided to do a little shopping. I stumbled upon Maiko Antiques Kyoto, a small shop in the Higashiyama district. This place was a treasure trove of vintage Japanese toys, retro-futuristic models, and all sorts of odd and unusual objects. I spent hours browsing through the shop, marveling at the sheer variety of items on display. The owner was a friendly and eccentric character, dressed in a bright Hawaiian shirt and sunglasses. He seemed to know the story behind every item in the shop. I ended up buying a few small souvenirs, including a vintage robot and a set of old matchboxes. It was a fun and unexpected find, a reminder that Kyoto is full of surprises.


Explore the rich heritage of Japan at Maiko Antiques Kyoto, where timeless treasures await in a charming antique store setting.

Dinner at Gion Mikaku: A Taste of Tradition

For dinner, I wanted to experience something truly special, so I made a reservation at Gion Mikaku. This long-standing wagyu specialty restaurant is located along the Shirakawa River in the Gion district. The restaurant only serves unbred Tajima female cattle, and the chefs are experts at preparing the meat on the teppan. I opted for the teppanyaki sukiyaki, and it was an unforgettable meal. The beef was incredibly tender and flavorful, and the atmosphere was elegant and refined. I savored every bite, knowing that this was a truly authentic Kyoto experience. The views of the Shirakawa River were beautiful, and the ambiance was perfect for a special occasion. The chef prepared the meal right in front of me, and it was fascinating to watch his skill and precision.


Discover Gion Mikaku, where exceptional steak meets authentic Japanese culture in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district.

As I walked back to The Hiramatsu Kyoto, I reflected on the day. It had been a perfect blend of culture, history, and culinary delights. I felt a deep sense of connection to this city, a sense of belonging that I hadn't expected. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, when I'll be exploring Kiyomizu-dera and the charming streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka. I might even treat myself to a cocktail at Bar K6 in the evening. I'm so grateful for this opportunity to experience Kyoto on my own, to wander at my own pace and discover its hidden gems. I'm sure David and Jasmine would have loved to have been here with me, but sometimes it's good to have a little time for myself. It is important to recharge and reconnect with myself. I can't wait to share all of my experiences with them when I get back home.


Experience the elegance of Kyoto at The Hiramatsu Kyoto, where modern comfort meets traditional charm, just steps from cultural attractions.

The cherry blossoms may not be in full bloom just yet, but Kyoto is still a beautiful place to visit in early March. The weather has been mild, and the crowds have been manageable. I'm so glad I decided to come at this time of year. I'm looking forward to seeing what tomorrow brings. I have a feeling that Kyoto still has many more surprises in store for me. I can't wait to explore more of this amazing city.

As I prepare for another day of exploration, I am reminded of a quote by the great Zen Master, Thich Nhat Hanh:

                

“The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it.”

And Kyoto, in all its serene beauty, is helping me to do just that.

Goodnight from Kyoto!