Kyoto Took My Breath Away
Exploring Japan’s most beautiful city…
If Tokyo is like stepping into future with its neon lights, large TV screens, and Western-style architecture, Kyoto is akin to going back in time with its Shinto shrines, Zen gardens and traditional wooden houses.
Once the capital of Japan, Kyoto is deeply rich in history and serves as a symbol of traditional Japanese culture. I spent three memorable days there in June, 2023, and it quickly became my favourite city in Japan.
Day 1: Tō-ji and Fushimi Inari
I first made my way to Tō-ji, a Buddhist temple, and also the tallest wooden tower in Japan. I stood in awe as I admired the five-story pagoda. I felt at peace. The tranquil vibe of the surrounding garden gave me a blissful feeling that I don’t experience often.
I then made my way to Fushimi Inari, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Inari. I started hiking at 6:30 pm, and stopped every few minutes to admire the torii gates, fox relics, countless shrines and views of Kyoto from the mountainside as darkness loomed.
Walking back down was a very eerie, but calming experience. It was dark, and dim lights would bounce onto my path creating strange shadows. The lack of people, total silence and near darkness made me feel a bit uneasy. “A little bit of trepidation makes for great camp stories,” I thought to myself.
Day 2: Temple Hopping and Markets
My first stop was Kiyomizu-dera, a Buddhist temple founded during the Heian period. Located on the edge of a mountainside, it offered picturesque views of Kyoto. A large veranda — supported by unnailed wooden pillars — that protrudes over a hillside serves as an unparalleled testament to the ingenuity of Japanese carpentry and architecture. The smaller shrines, beautiful gardens and “Otowa-no-taki” (a waterfall) surrounding Kiyomizu-dera were also scenic and remarkable.
Afterwards, I took a stroll through Ninenzaka, an ancient pedestrian street filled with traditional wooden buildings that made me feel like I had stepped into a time machine. From a distance, I admired the ethereal beauty of Hōkan-ji, a five story Buddhist pagoda that is often seen on Instagram.
I spent the next couple hours temple hopping. I first went to Kōdai-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple established in the 1600’s. A bamboo forest within the temple complex serves as a stunningly beautiful precursor to the Arashiyama bamboo grove.
I then made quick stops at Yasaka Jinja Shrine, Chion-in, Heian-Jingu Shrine, Nanzen-ji and Kennin-ji. All these temples were equally as beautiful. I quickly realized that temple hopping is not only about seeing historical structures; it’s also about experiencing the beauty and tranquility of Japanese culture, architecture and spirituality.
My afternoon was spent exploring various markets and neighborhoods. I started in Gion, a district in Higashiyama and home to the magnificent maiko. Although I didn’t see one, I saw many women wearing kimonos while I explored this vibrant and bustling area.
I then made my way to Pontocho, a narrow alley filled with inexpensive eateries and bars. Feeling gratified from the fried rice and ramen I had for dinner, I ventured towards Nishiki Market. Nishiki is a long, narrow street filled with shops and food stalls all offering authentic Japanese delicacies and foods. Kyoto is unquestionably a food lover’s paradise.
Day 3: Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji
My first stop was the Arashiyama bamboo grove. The towering bamboo stalks were truly a site to behold. As I strolled through this luscious green forest, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of calm and zen as I marvelled at the picturesque beauty that I was witnessing. All felt well.
After exploring the streets of Arashiyama for a bit, I then headed towards the Iwatayama Monkey Park. Along the way, I crossed the famed Togetsukyo bridge, and spent a few moments admiring the Katsura River and surrounding lush green mountains.
By the time I began my hike to the top of Mount Arashiyama, the rain had gotten relentless. Hiking to the top was a worthwhile experience. I stood at the top and admired the grandeur of the mountains from all corners of my eyes. It was a truly spectacular site. Above all, the opportunity to observe the Macaque monkeys in their natural habitat was an experience that I’ll never forget.
My final stop was Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Encircled by trees and a beautiful lake, and a statue of a Phoenix perched on its rooftop, this elegant pure gold leaf temple was truly a marvel to behold. The beauty of the temple and the surrounding garden invoked a tranquil and Zen atmosphere.
I only spent three days in Kyoto but it was unquestionably the best three days of my life. Pictures cannot even begin to accurately encapsulate the sheer beauty of this magnificent city. I was often left breathless and mesmerized. I can truly say that I left a piece of my heart there.
