Solo Cultural Sojourn in Kyoto

A Day of Discovery in Northern Kyoto

Today was a day of unexpected delights, a true testament to the magic of solo travel. I set out to explore a different side of Kyoto, one that blended modern art with ancient traditions, and found myself captivated by the city's ability to seamlessly weave together the old and the new.

My day began with a hearty vegan breakfast at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO. I had heard wonderful things about their pancakes, and as someone who tries to maintain a mostly plant-based diet, I was eager to try their take on this classic. The restaurant was cozy, with a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the pancakes were indeed heavenly! Fluffy, light, and topped with fresh fruit and a generous dollop of vegan whipped cream, they were the perfect start to a day of exploration.


Discover exquisite vegan delights at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO – where culinary creativity meets sustainable living.

Fuelled up and ready to go, I headed to the Kyoto International Manga Museum. Now, I'll admit, I'm not the biggest manga reader, but I am fascinated by the art form and its cultural impact. The museum is housed in a former elementary school, which added to its charm. Wandering through the halls, surrounded by shelves upon shelves of manga, was an experience in itself. I was particularly impressed by the 'Wall of Manga,' a towering display of over 50,000 books! It was a visual feast, and I spent a good hour simply browsing the collection.


Explore the rich world of manga at the Kyoto International Manga Museum, a cultural haven for enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

I even stumbled upon a small section with manga in English, which allowed me to delve into a few stories. What struck me most was the diversity of the art styles and narratives. From historical dramas to futuristic sci-fi, manga truly encompasses a wide range of genres and themes. The museum also had exhibits on the history of manga and its evolution over time, which I found incredibly informative. I even picked up a few small manga-themed trinkets at the gift shop – a fun reminder of my visit. I know my daughter, Jasmine, would have particularly loved the opportunity to get a manga caricature done!

Leaving the museum, I made my way to the Kyoto Botanical Gardens. It was such a beautiful day, with the sun shining and a gentle breeze in the air. As I mentioned, I had forgotten to pack sunscreen, so I made a mental note to buy some at Kyoto LOFT later. The gardens were a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. I strolled along the winding paths, admiring the vibrant colors and fragrant scents of the various plants and flowers. Although it's still early in March, I could see the first signs of cherry blossoms beginning to bloom. There were a few early bloomers already showing off their delicate pink petals, hinting at the spectacular display to come later in the month. I read that the garden hosts a cherry blossom light-up event, and I am sad to be missing it as it starts later in the month.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kyoto Botanical Gardens, an enchanting sanctuary showcasing diverse flora and stunning landscapes in Kyoto, Japan.

The Kyoto Botanical Gardens are home to over 12,000 species of plants, and I could easily have spent the entire day exploring its different sections. From the traditional Japanese garden to the Western-style flowerbeds, there was something to appeal to every taste. I particularly enjoyed the conservatory, a large greenhouse filled with tropical and subtropical plants. It was like stepping into another world, with lush greenery and exotic blooms all around me. I took some time to sit on a bench and simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere, listening to the gentle sounds of nature.

Next on my itinerary was Kamigamo Shrine, one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Kyoto. Nestled at the foot of a mountain, the shrine exuded a sense of tranquility and reverence. As I walked through the towering torii gate, I felt a sense of stepping back in time. The shrine's history dates back over 2,600 years, and it has been a place of worship for centuries. I learned that the shrine is dedicated to Kamo Wakeikazuchi no Okami, a deity known for his power to ward off misfortune and bring good fortune. I took my time to wander through the shrine grounds, admiring the traditional architecture and the serene natural surroundings. The shrine is surrounded by lush forests, which added to its sense of peace and seclusion. I observed the ritual of purification, washing my hands and mouth at the provided basin, before approaching the main hall to offer a prayer for continued safe travels and good health for my family. It was a deeply spiritual experience, and I felt a sense of connection to the ancient traditions of Japan.


Experience the beauty and spirituality of Kamigamo Shrine, a historic Shinto sanctuary in Kyoto surrounded by lush nature and rich cultural heritage.

After my visit to Kamigamo Shrine, I decided to do a little shopping at Kyoto LOFT. I was in search of a few souvenirs to bring back home, as well as some practical items like sunscreen and an adapter for my electronic devices (I realized I had forgotten to pack one!). LOFT is a large department store that sells a wide variety of goods, from stationery and cosmetics to household items and travel accessories. I found a lovely selection of traditional Japanese crafts, as well as some unique and quirky souvenirs. I picked up a few small gifts for David and Jasmine, as well as a beautiful silk scarf for myself. And of course, I stocked up on sunscreen and an adapter, ensuring that I was well-prepared for the rest of my trip.


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

For lunch, I treated myself to a delicious meal at Masayoshi Japanese Dining. This restaurant came highly recommended for its authentic Japanese cuisine and its elegant atmosphere. I opted for the omakase menu, which allowed the chef to create a personalized meal based on the freshest seasonal ingredients. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. From the delicate sashimi to the perfectly cooked tempura, every bite was a delight. The service was impeccable, and the staff were attentive and knowledgeable about the food. It was a truly memorable dining experience, and I left feeling satisfied and content.


Experience authentic Japanese steakhouse dining at Masayoshi in Kyoto—where tradition meets culinary excellence.

As evening approached, I made my way to Gion, Kyoto's geisha district, for dinner at Premium Pound Gion. This teppanyaki restaurant is known for its high-quality Japanese beef and its intimate atmosphere. All the seats are counter seats, which allowed me to watch the chef prepare my meal right in front of me. I ordered the Kobe beef steak, which was cooked to perfection on the teppan grill. The meat was incredibly tender and flavorful, and it melted in my mouth. The chef was friendly and engaging, and he shared stories about the restaurant and the local area. It was a fun and interactive dining experience, and I enjoyed learning more about Japanese cuisine and culture.


Experience culinary artistry at Premium Pound Gion – where French cuisine meets Japanese teppanyaki in the heart of Kyoto's historic Gion district.

The day was capped off with a leisurely stroll through Gion, soaking in the atmosphere of this historic district. The narrow streets were lit by lanterns, and I could hear the faint sounds of traditional music drifting from the tea houses. I even caught a glimpse of a geiko hurrying to an appointment, her elegant kimono and elaborate hairstyle a testament to the enduring traditions of Kyoto.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Toei Kyoto Studio Park, Kyoto Railway Museum and Nijō Castle. I am also looking forward to visiting L'Escamoteur, a bar, for a nightcap. It was a perfect end to a day of discovery, and I returned to The Hiramatsu Kyoto feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of Kyoto. I am looking forward to another day of exploration tomorrow! I am increasingly appreciative of my decision to travel solo to fully immerse myself in the experience.


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