15 October 2026 · Kyoto · An afternoon pause
One last breakfast at the Tower Hotel this morning, then goodbye. After so many days on the motorcycle, a different part of our journey through Japan is beginning.
First, a few practical errands: exchanging the QR codes from our train booking for actual tickets, and a visit to the pharmacy. Then we head to the Hyatt Regency.
An oasis among the old temples
What a change. A moment ago, it was motorcycle gear, luggage and the next stretch of road on our minds. Now we find ourselves in an oasis in Kyoto’s old temple district. Beautifully situated, peaceful, with that understated elegance we are learning to appreciate so much about Japan.
We visit beautiful Japanese gardens and take part in a prayer ceremony. The monks and priests, the calm, the clarity — it moves us. After all those kilometres, all those impressions and all that movement, it feels especially good simply to be still. To have nothing to accomplish. Just to be there.
Perhaps here we are catching a little glimpse of Japan’s soul. Not because we suddenly understand everything, but because we are taking the time to let the experience reach us.
There is room for pleasure, too
Then comes a pleasure of a different kind: an outstanding lunch at the Hyatt Regency’s Italian restaurant. Truly first-class. That, too, belongs to this day.
We are moving from the world of motorcycle travel into a very different world of Japanese luxury. Both have their appeal. On the motorcycle, we experienced Japan on the move, with all the effort and surprises of a long journey. Now we are enjoying the comfort and the chance to find our own rhythm.
Three short moving memories
Dance this evening, tea tomorrow
This evening, we have been invited to a welcome drink and a geisha dance performance. Tomorrow, 16 October, a tea ceremony is on the programme. There are still some lovely days in Kyoto ahead of us.
For now, we are taking a rest. The journey continues — just a little more quietly.
← Previous chapter · All chapters · Next chapter →
