Solo Cultural and Culinary Exploration in Kyoto

Whispers of the Past, Flavors of the Present

Today in Kyoto was a journey for the soul. I found myself wandering through tranquil paths and ancient temples, each step resonating with centuries of history and culture. It was a day of reflection, culinary delights, and the simple joy of being present in this captivating city.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Hanasaki. The restaurant, nestled in the heart of Gion, served up a traditional Japanese breakfast that was both comforting and energizing. The delicate flavors of the Kyoto vegetables and the perfectly grilled fish were a delightful start to the day. Fuelled up, I set out to explore the famed Philosopher's Path.


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

The Philosopher's Path, a serene walkway that follows a canal, was the perfect place to begin my day of exploration. The crisp February air and the quiet murmur of the water created a peaceful atmosphere. I imagined the great philosopher Nishida Kitaro walking this same path, deep in thought, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to the past. While the cherry trees were still bare, I could envision how beautiful it must be during the spring when the blossoms are in full bloom. I made a mental note to return someday with Anjali to witness that spectacle.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its famous landmarks, but in the quiet corners where history and nature intertwine.

From the Philosopher's Path, I made my way to Eikandō Temple. This temple, also known as Zenrin-ji, is renowned for its autumn foliage, but even in winter, it possessed a unique charm. The bare trees stood in stark contrast to the intricate architecture of the temple buildings, creating a scene of quiet beauty. I was particularly captivated by the Mikaeri Amida statue, which depicts the Buddha looking over his shoulder. The story behind the statue, of Amida Buddha turning back to encourage a lagging monk, resonated deeply with me. It was a reminder to always look back and help those who are struggling.


Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Eikan-dō Temple, a must-visit Buddhist sanctuary in Kyoto, Japan, surrounded by stunning gardens.

Next on my itinerary was Nanzen-ji Temple, one of Kyoto's most important Zen temples. The sheer scale of the temple complex was awe-inspiring. The Sanmon gate, standing at an impressive 22 meters tall, offered panoramic views of the city. I also explored the Suirokaku aqueduct, a brick structure built during the Meiji era that seamlessly blends with the natural surroundings. The sound of the water flowing through the aqueduct added to the tranquil atmosphere of the temple.


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

Lunch was at Masayoshi Japanese Dining, where I indulged in a delicious and artfully prepared meal. The restaurant's ambiance was warm and inviting, and the staff were incredibly attentive. As a chef myself, I appreciated the attention to detail and the use of fresh, local ingredients. It gave me new ideas to try back in my own kitchen in Leipzig, perhaps incorporating some Japanese flavors into Nepali cuisine.


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

After a day of walking and exploring, I was ready for a relaxing evening. I decided to visit the Kyoto Star Bar, known for its expertly crafted cocktails and sophisticated atmosphere. The bartender, dressed in a traditional kimono, was a master of his craft. I enjoyed a perfectly balanced cocktail while chatting with some of the locals, learning more about Kyoto's culture and nightlife.


Discover the perfect blend of cocktails and coffee at Kyoto Star Bar, a stylish retreat in the heart of Kyoto's vibrant nightlife.

As I sipped my drink, I reflected on the day's experiences. The Philosopher's Path, Eikandō Temple, and Nanzen-ji Temple had each offered a unique glimpse into Kyoto's rich history and culture. The delicious meals at Hanasaki and Masayoshi Japanese Dining had tantalized my taste buds, and the Kyoto Star Bar had provided a perfect ending to a perfect day. It was a day of simple pleasures, of finding beauty in the ordinary, and of connecting with the past.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Ryoan-ji, Ninna-ji Temple, and Daitoku-ji Temple, further immersing myself in Kyoto's Zen culture. I'm also looking forward to exploring Kyoto LOFT for some unique souvenirs and enjoying the culinary delights at Nakamura for lunch and AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO for dinner. I'm curious to see what new flavors and experiences await me.

The plum blossoms are starting to appear around Kyoto, a subtle hint of the spring to come, which reminds me of Setsubun Festival celebrated at various temples and shrines in Kyoto. I'm told that the Setsubun Festival is a lively tradition where people chase away evil spirits to welcome the beginning of Spring. Perhaps I'll try to catch one before I leave Kyoto.

This solo journey has been incredibly fulfilling, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the culture and beauty of Kyoto. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel, to explore, and to share my experiences with all of you. I am already looking forward to sharing more stories as my culinary and cultural exploration continues.

What I appreciate most about Kyoto is the way it manages to preserve its rich history while embracing the present. The temples and gardens are meticulously maintained, and the local cuisine is a testament to the city's culinary heritage. It's a place where you can step back in time and experience the beauty and tranquility of traditional Japan, while also enjoying the modern comforts and conveniences of a vibrant city. It's a balance that I find incredibly appealing, and it's something that I hope to capture in my own cooking, blending the flavors of Nepal with the techniques and ingredients I've discovered here in Kyoto.

As I head back to The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Kyoto, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences of the day. Kyoto has a way of capturing your heart and leaving you wanting more. I know that this is just the beginning of my journey here, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.


Experience the perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional charm at The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Kyoto, your ideal base for exploring this historic city.

Good night from Kyoto. Until tomorrow!