When I found out Jidai Matsuri was happening on the 22nd of October, precisely when I was planning on being in Kyoto, I was jubilant. And I had good reason. Every year on the 22nd of October, Kyoto celebrates its history with a long parade with over 2,000 volunteers dressed in authentic, detailed costumes representing … Continue reading A Gallery on Jidai Matsuri – I was in Kyoto when it was its birthday
I don’t know what it is that I adore more about Shinto. The undeniable connection with nature. The Kamis, their presence, their spirits. Or the elevation of animals to sacredness. We’ve spoken about the deer in Nara, from woodland munchers to sacred messengers. We’ve also talked about the looking back rabbit of Uji, the carp … Continue reading Fushimi Inari – a place of pilgrimage, not photoshoots
My third day in Kyoto started with a slow morning, had busy middle and a wonderful non-crowded ending. I was going back to Gion for something very special I had booked months before - a Tea Ceremony with a Kimono experience at MAIKOYA Gion. Wearing a Kimono and a Tea Ceremony I have always found … Continue reading Golden Silk and Pitch Black: a Day of Rebirth in Kyoto
Japan has a way of making minimalism cosy. I’m not big on minimalism - unless it’s Japanese or perhaps even European Nordic. The soft and warm wooden tones, the faint scent of tatami. Rocking me to sleep. There is something quite comforting about sleeping so much closer to the ground. Our natural cradle, perhaps. So, … Continue reading When I Change, the World Changes – A Day in Kyoto
Kyoto. The city that always came to mind first when I dreamed of Japan. And yet, I was quite terrified that my expectations would be shattered by the rumours and, frankly, many, many articles, videos and social media posts about how crowded it was. How overtourism is destroying it, and how unpleasant it has become.I … Continue reading Day 1 in Kyoto – Exploring Gion & Ryokan stay
The Winged Bone 