My five days solo in Kyoto, Japan was the best solo adventure I’ve ever gone on. This was my first time in Japan, and although many blogs & tiktoks warned me of Kyoto’s over-tourism problem, I was able to stay away from crowds and do my own thing.
The reason this worked is because there is so much to do around Kyoto, and all of it is easily accessible by train or foot.
I went at the end of April, and the trees and forests were LUSH with blooming flowers and green zen gardens. I was alone, and I was able to do whatever I wanted. If I messed up the train system (which I did), I laughed it off because it was all on me. Japan is so so so safe, and I felt like a warrior when I successfully took a bus by myself or found a hidden temple deep in the neighborhoods of Kyoto.
Traveling solo through Kyoto unlocked a sacred part of myself. I had a spiritual experience journaling in zen gardens alone and observing the Japanese people around me. I honestly felt super scared before this solo trip because Japan seemed so overwhelming. I had never been to East Asia and there was so much unknown.
Only by taking the chance and actually doing it was I able to conquer this fear and awaken my adventurer spirit. I felt more alive on this trip than I have in a long time … and isn’t that what life is about? Doing what makes your heart sing, what makes you grow.
I’ll talk through some of my favorite recommendations in Kyoto, and hopefully you’ll use these in your own solo Kyoto trip!
Local sushi lunch spot
After a long day of walking around the Philosopher’s Path (a stunning network of pathways leading to historic and lovely temples), I found this unassuming local sushi spot called Sushi Ishimatsu for lunch. I love the double doors and simple brown wood decor.
I walked in and the owners were two lovely older Japanese grandparents. I asked to sit in a booth and they said ‘no’ and pointed to the counter. Lol. I sat at the counter and chose a sampling plate of sushi and sashimi. He asked if I wanted wasabi and I said ‘no’ and low and behold, I bit into the sushi and it had wasabi. Double lol.
I think the sushi in Japan automatically comes with wasabi, but perhaps he was asking if I wanted more? But anyways, no matter if he ignored my wishes or not, the sushi was unbelievably fresh and the wasabi added loads of flavor. Now I eat wasabi with my sushi — so the older Japanese folks were RIGHT (obviously).
I sat in between two Japanese businessmen in suits, and quietly observed their sleek suits and graceful maneuver of chopsticks.
Bathing at a traditional onsen
When I was in Kyoto I made it my mission to bathe at a traditional onsen every single day. And there’s a reason — that reason being I felt like a brand new baby right out of the womb every time I walked out of there.
If you don’t know, an Onsen is an open bathhouse popular in Japanese culture. The Onsen I frequented was separated by men and women. It had a sauna, ice bath, and 3 other soothing scented baths and hot tubs. And yes, you do have to be fully naked.
My favorite part of this experience was how affordable it is! It cost $3 every time I went, and they provide you with a locker, shampoo, conditioner, towels, etc. It was a fascinating insight into the fabric of Japanese communities and culture. My favorite Onsen was called Umeyu. They have English-written rules and are open to inviting foreigners inside.
Just do it. It was seriously so liberating and the local Japanese women were so kind to me. I wish these were as popular in America, because I think it’s a great community-builder and inclusive wellness activity for all ages. The local grannies go here every day and chat while they bathe — what a beautiful tradition of womanhood and wellness!
Walking through the Sakyo Ward neighborhood
Walk from the Honenin temple (one of my favs) towards the city and you’ll find yourself enchanted by the Sakyo Ward neighborhood. Everywhere you look is like a Ghibli movie. Artisan storefronts selling ceramics, narrow alleys with a mountain backdrop, unassuming zen gardens, and more.
There are huge sidewalks and minimal traffic, so wandering here is a solo traveler’s dream. Even better, rent a bicycle and glide through the gorgeous streets.
Kyoto botanical gardens
The Kyoto Botanical Gardens are the MOST UNDERRATED thing to do in Kyoto. The entrance fee is $2 and it’s right by the Kamo river — the heart of Kyoto. The river is the center of life and culture for the locals. I loved walking along the river and people-watching. I think the best way to see a new city is by observing the people who actually live there!
The botanical gardens were incredibly peaceful and divine. Again, a solo traveler’s dream spot. The area was hugeeee and I spent over an hour just wandering through, listening to music and taking photos. A perfect afternoon if you ask me!
My favorite healthy lunch spot by the river
Veg Out is one of the only veggie-friendly options that I found in Kyoto. But WOW was this farm-to-table restaurant a real winner.
If the photos don’t speak for themselves, then I will. The care that goes into each ingredient, each morsel of food collected on the plates is impressive. It’s right by the river, so nab a window seat and people-watch as the stream flows by.
I went twice and had to wait both times, so show up early for breakfast or try to get lucky in between meal times.
I found that Japan didn’t have a ton of fresh fruits and vegetables so this was a delight to my tummy. Check it out after bathing in the local onsen that I recommended, it’s a quick walk away!
To conclude – solo in Kyoto
This solo trip to Kyoto really did change my life. I gained such intimacy and awareness of myself, of what I enjoy, what foods I like, what activities I enjoy. The air is spiritual in Kyoto, and visiting temples and zen gardens and the Kamo river and the mountainous regions really grounded me to Mother Nature in a beautiful connection.
I hope this inspires you to travel to Kyoto, or go on a solo trip at some point in the near future. It will quite literally change your life, and awaken your soul!
Thanks for reading. xx Gracie
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