Kyoto, the Spiritual Heart of Japan: among Temples, Bamboos and Traditions

Kyoto is not simply a city; it is a journey back in time. Here you can breathe history, feel the most authentic essence of Japan, and discover architecture that tells centuries of traditions.

How many temples are there in Kyoto? So many, in fact too many! It is said that there are over 1,600 Buddhist and Shinto ones. To visit them all would take more than a lifetime-or at least a couple of reincarnations. That's why choosing what to see becomes quite a feat, but one thing is certain: each of these places has the power to deliver a unique thrill, especially if you are lucky enough to find them without too many crowds.

Our first stop is Kiyomizu-dera, probably one of Kyoto's most famous temples and undoubtedly one of the most striking. Its name means “Temple of Pure Water,” and it is not hard to see why: it stands on a hill with a spectacular wooden terrace overlooking a breathtaking panorama. From here, the view sweeps over the city, the surrounding forests and, in spring, an expanse of cherry blossoms. Walking along the grand arcade gives you the impression of being suspended between heaven and earth. And if you are superstitious, you cannot miss a visit to the Jishu shrine inside the complex, dedicated to love. They say that crossing blindfolded two sacred stones placed a few meters apart brings good luck in love. After visiting the temple, we get lost in the streets of Sannenzaka, a neighborhood of cobblestone streets, wooden houses and small stores filled with souvenirs. As we browse between stores, we are drawn in by the irresistible smell of bao, those soft steamed buns filled with meat. An explosion of flavors that I will not easily forget!

We continue to the equally charming Ninenzaka district, with its small wooden houses and old-world atmosphere. Here the pace is slow, and every corner looks like a postcard. It is around here that we come across Kodai-ji, a temple that left me speechless. Its beauty lies in the details: the perfectly manicured Zen gardens, the pond that reflects the colors of the sky, and a small but enchanting bamboo forest. Walking here is an almost meditative experience, each step seems to bring you back into harmony with nature. It is absolutely not to be missed. We end the day with a visit to Ryozen Kannon Temple, a particularly impressive place, especially at sunset. Here stands a giant statue of the goddess Kannon, 24 meters high, which seems to watch over Kyoto. The silence is broken only by birdsong and the echo of our footsteps, and it is impossible not to feel overwhelmed by the peace that reigns here. Our last surprise came in the Gion district, famous for its traditional teahouses and the rare and fascinating presence of geishas. And it was here that we were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of one, very elegant in her kimono, walking quickly toward one of the machiya. A fleeting but unforgettable moment.

The second day takes us further from the center of Kyoto. Our first stop is Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, a temple little visited by tourists but definitely worth a visit. Its special feature? Here you will find more than 1,200 stone statues, each one different from the other, representing the rakan, the disciples of the Buddha. Some of these statues have funny expressions, others seem to be smiling, and still others are decidedly unusual-you'll even find a rakan with sunglasses on! It is a place that makes you smile and reflect at the same time.

We continue on to another hidden gem, Gio-ji, a temple surrounded by nature that looks like something out of a painting. Its uniqueness lies in the small moss garden that surrounds it, a bright green carpet that looks alive. The temple's history is equally fascinating: it is named after Gio, a dancer who retreated here after being abandoned by her beloved. The silence and beauty of this place tell a story of newfound peace. From here, we move on to the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, one of the most photographed places in Kyoto. It must be said: it is full of tourists, and the magic of the place gets a little lost in the hustle and bustle. But you only have to walk a few steps away to discover that Arashiyama village has much more to offer. Quiet streets, small craft stores, and small restaurants overlooking the river create an enchanting atmosphere, ideal for a relaxing stroll. We end the day on a high note with a visit to Pontocho Alley, a narrow street in the heart of Kyoto famous for its traditional eateries. Here, among red lanterns and small restaurants with kaiseki cuisine, it feels like being in a movie. The atmosphere is intimate, the lights dim and the scents inviting. A dinner here is the perfect way to end two unforgettable days in a city that, at every turn, delivers poetry.

Kyoto is like that: it captures you with its beauty, surprises you with its details and leaves you wanting to come back again.