Solo Cultural Sojourn in Kyoto

Golden Reflections and Zen Contemplations

Day two in Kyoto, and I'm already feeling the city's magic seep into my soul. Today was a journey through temples and gardens, each holding a unique piece of Kyoto's rich history and spiritual essence. It was a day of golden reflections, tranquil contemplation, and a deeper connection to the heart of Japan.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at The Cellar Kyoto. It's a cozy spot, and I enjoyed a delicious Western-style meal that set me up perfectly for a day of exploring. I must admit, I was initially seeking out a more traditional Japanese breakfast, but I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and atmosphere of The Cellar. Refueled, I was ready to embrace the day's itinerary.


Discover culinary excellence at The Cellar Kyoto - where creative cuisine meets fine wine in a stylish setting.

First on the list was Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. As I approached, the sight of the temple shimmering in the morning light took my breath away. The top two floors, adorned with pure gold leaf, reflected brilliantly on the Mirror Pond, creating a scene straight out of a painting. It was initially built as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu in 1397. I learned that after Yoshimitsu's death, it was converted into a Zen Buddhist temple, as he had wished. The history of the temple is fascinating, including its reconstruction after being burned down in 1950 by a novice monk. Standing there, camera in hand, I tried to capture the essence of its beauty, but no photograph could truly do it justice. The way the sunlight played on the gold, the serene reflection in the pond, and the backdrop of the surrounding trees created a sense of otherworldly peace. It’s easy to see why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks.


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

Leaving the Golden Pavilion, I headed to Ryoan-ji, famous for its enigmatic Zen garden. The contrast between the opulence of Kinkaku-ji and the stark simplicity of Ryoan-ji was striking, yet both offered a profound sense of peace. The garden consists of fifteen rocks arranged in a rectangle of pebbles surrounded by low earthen walls. As I sat on the wooden veranda, gazing at the garden, I felt a sense of calm wash over me. The garden is designed so that from any vantage point, at least one of the rocks is always hidden from view. It's a subtle detail that adds to the garden's mystique and invites contemplation.


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

The garden at Ryōan-ji does not symbolize anything, or more precisely, to avoid any misunderstanding, the garden of Ryōan-ji does not symbolize, nor does it have the value of reproducing a natural beauty that one can find in the real or mythical world. I consider it to be an abstract composition of natural objects in space, a composition whose function is to incite meditation.

The meaning of the garden remains a mystery, with theories ranging from islands in a stream to a tiger carrying her cubs across the water. I found myself drawn to the idea that the garden represents an abstract composition meant to incite meditation. I closed my eyes, took a deep breath, and let the tranquility of the garden quiet my mind. It was a moment of pure Zen, a feeling of being completely present in the moment.

My final temple visit of the day was to Ninna-ji Temple, founded in 888 by Emperor Uda. This temple, a World Heritage Site, offered a glimpse into the intertwining of imperial power and Buddhist practice. Originally serving as a summer villa for the Imperial Family, it was later transformed into a temple complex of great importance. The five-story pagoda is stunning, and the temple grounds exude a sense of history and serenity. Walking through the gardens, I admired the traditional architecture and the peaceful atmosphere. I learned that from 888 to 1869, it was traditional for reigning Emperors to send a son to the temple to take over as head priest when a vacancy arose. The temple was destroyed by fire in 1467 during the Ōnin War but was rebuilt roughly 150 years later.


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

After a day of temple hopping, my stomach was rumbling. I made my way to Hyoto Shijo Karasuma for a delightful lunch. I opted for the Kyo shabu set, and it was an exquisite experience. The service was impeccable, and the food was incredibly fresh and flavorful. It was the perfect way to refuel after a busy day of sightseeing.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors with exquisite hot pot and Kaiseki dishes at Hyoto Shijo Karasuma in Kyoto.

As evening approached, I decided to try Teppan Tavern Tenamonya for dinner, drawn by its overwhelmingly positive reviews. I must say, it lived up to the hype! The food was amazing, and the owners were incredibly welcoming and friendly. It felt like dining in their home. I indulged in their wagyu steak, which was cooked to perfection. The gyoza was also a standout, with a secret family recipe that made them utterly irresistible. It was definitely one of my favorite restaurants of the trip so far.


Experience authentic teppanyaki at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, Kyoto's premier destination for Japanese cuisine in a lively izakaya setting.

To cap off the day, I ventured to The Common One Bar Kyoto for a nightcap. Finding the entrance was a bit of an adventure, adding to the bar's hideaway charm. The bar had a modern yet traditional atmosphere, with tatami rooms and a tea room. I ordered a brandy-based cocktail, which was expertly crafted and delicious. The Common One Bar Kyoto is known for its attentive bartenders and creative drinks. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day's experiences.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at The Common One Bar, where tradition meets innovation in every cocktail.

As I sit here now, back at The Hiramatsu Kyoto, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences of the day. Kyoto has a way of slowing you down, of inviting you to appreciate the simple things in life. The gilded beauty of Kinkaku-ji, the tranquil contemplation of Ryoan-ji, and the warm hospitality of the people I've met along the way have all left an indelible mark on my soul.


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

Tomorrow, I'm heading to Arashiyama to explore the bamboo forest and Tenryu-ji Temple. I'm excited to see what new adventures await and to continue my journey of cultural exploration in this enchanting city. I'm particularly looking forward to visiting the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and experiencing the serenity of Tenryu-ji Temple. I'm also planning to visit the Kyoto Crafts Store to pick up some souvenirs. I feel like I am starting to get a good sense of direction in the city, and my confidence is building as I navigate the streets on my own. I am so glad I decided to come to Kyoto, and I am looking forward to sharing more of my experiences with you all.

And now, as the day winds down, I'm off to dream of golden temples and zen gardens, eager for the adventures that tomorrow will bring.

I hope my Bermuda family are doing well, and that my Jasmine is studying hard.

Until then, sayonara!