A Zen Buddhist temple nestled at the base of Kyoto's Higashiyama mountains which forms part of a beautiful and peaceful complex dating back to the mid-thirteenth century. Keep your eyes peeled for the incredible aqueduct!

Probably one of the most celebrated temples in Japan, called the "Pure Water Temple", it was founded in 780 at the Otowa Waterfall. It is perched on the lush wooded hills east of Kyoto. 

It is all about going back to the basics at Nanzenji Harada. Creating dishes only using dashi (stock made from kelp and bonito), with no fussy ingredients, so you truly taste the flavours of the food. The interior is minimal and reminiscent of the perfectly balanced outdoors. 

The Murin-an Garden is a late 19th century garden known for its carefully composed sightlines and subtle water features throughout. Every element is placed carefully to guide your gaze as your walk through with layered greenery that rewards stillness rather than movement. Book a time slot in advance, and visit mid-morning for softer light, or in the afternoon as the sun starts to set between the trees. Autumn is particularly striking, but the space is impactful and refreshingly calm all year round.