Kyoto's summers are famously hot, but if you take the Eizan Railway and get off at Yase-Hieizanguchi Station, you'll find a spot along the Takano river where you can cool off, enjoy a barbecue, or relax by the water with a drink and read. This spot is particularly recommended for those staying in Kyoto long-term rather than for short-term tourists.

This is a local liquor store that has been here since before I was born, offering not only alcohol but also rice, tobacco, and other daily necessities. The owner, who is always there in the mornings and afternoons, is a very friendly and wonderful person. You can buy and drink inside the store, and smoking is allowed as well. I often see people gathering to enjoy a drink, smoke, and have casual conversations with the owner. This kind of super-local, cozy atmosphere is one of my favorite things about the place.

Monade Contemporary is a hidden gem of a gallery located in the Gion area of Kyoto. Despite its small size, it leverages the extensive network of its curator, Mr. Atsumi, to host exhibitions featuring a diverse range of fascinating artists from both Japan and abroad. Nestled in the basement of a multi-tenant building, the compact space exudes a unique charm, offering visitors an exciting sense of discovery.

When it comes to Zen gardens that represent Kyoto, the rock garden of Ryoan-ji, established in 1460, is the most famous. It features 15 stones arranged in a way that one stone is always hidden, no matter the angle from which it is viewed. This design symbolises the Zen philosophy that "nothing is perfect or complete." While Kyoto has other well-known Zen gardens, this time I introduce Ryoan-ji, the most famous of them all. Visiting in conjunction with Murin-an allows you to experience the contrasting philosophical approaches to nature in Zen gardens and Murin-an, making it a highly recommended pairing. Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (subject to change depending on the season) Admission Fee: General ¥500 (please check the official website for details)

The Murin-an Garden is a Japanese garden designed by Jihei Ogawa VII, one of the most renowned garden designers of the Meiji era. Established in 1894, it is a relatively modern garden by Kyoto standards, yet its beauty makes it well worth a visit. The garden employs the technique of "borrowed scenery," seamlessly incorporating the surrounding natural landscapes and the flow of water, showcasing Jihei Ogawa's innovative approach as a pioneer of "naturalistic gardens." While Zen gardens are particularly famous in Kyoto, comparing them with Murin-an allows visitors to appreciate the distinctive features of each. This comparison enriches the experience of explorin Japanese gardens. Admission Fee: General admission ¥500 (please check the official website for details). Opening Hours: Usually 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (subject to change depending on the season or events).