Kyoto no Monogatari (Kyoto’s Tales) documents, in photographs, my visit to the former imperial capital of Japan. A beautiful (and peaceful) megalopolis that is awash with remnants of its former glory— think Shinto Shrines, Buddhist Temples, Palaces, and well-preserved Ryokans—, Kyoto never fails to captivate with its seasonal transitions and rustic charm.
A trip down the famous Higashiyama District, where most of the pictures here were taken, scenes of locals sipping sencha by the washi paper-covered windows, tourists in traditional costumes snapping shots in narrow alleys, and children running on marbled streets are common.
For every first-time visitor to Kyoto, there is this invigorating sense of freedom, a crisp in the air, a certain zen vibe, that overwhelms them. In a world, where moments are transient and fleeting and where warm conversations and exchanges are sparse, Kyoto reminds them to slow down and live in the moment.
It is my hope that through Kyoto no Monogatari, people are allowed to feel the same sense of tranquillity that had me spellbound on my first trip to Kyoto and, perhaps, be reminded to breathe and indulge in something a little deeper.
Japan has a special place in my heart. Even after I left, Japan continues to haunt me. It is different from anywhere else in the world. Japan has a way of imprinting itself into your bones and altering your beliefs. And in doing so, changing your very existence to fit into every facet of Japan’s personality.
Sng Ler Jun 