Zen, Silence & Sweet Sand

#springitinerary Kennin-ji is one of those spots in Kyoto that’s right in the middle of everything (hello, Gion!), but somehow stays super peaceful. It’s actually Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, but you don’t need to know the history to appreciate how chill it feels. The moment you step in, everything just slows down. The sand gardens here are straight-up art. perfectly raked patterns, little mossy rocks, and this quiet that hits different. There’s also this massive ceiling painting of twin dragons that’s totally epic. You just lie on the tatami mats and stare up like, Whoa. It’s not crowded, which is a big plus, and the whole place smells like old wood and incense. Super cozy, super calm. If you’re wandering through Gion and need a break from the crowds, Kennin-ji is the perfect hideout to sit, breathe, and vibe with some serious Zen energy.