It’s Friday, the gateway to weekend freedom and the perfect time to daydream a little. If I could teleport anywhere in the world right now, no flights, no packing, no planning just in a flash, and I’m there then where would I go?
After much thought (and a bit of scroll-happy wanderlust), I’ve settled on the perfect teleportation destination: Kyoto, Japan.
Why Kyoto, Japan
There’s something beautifully calming about Kyoto that makes it the ideal end-of-week escape. Wrapped in tradition yet overflowing with cultural charm, a city that balances old-world beauty with peaceful energy exactly what I need after a long week.
Friday Night: A Stroll in Gion District
As soon as I got there, I would explore Gion, Kyoto’s ancient geisha area. The smell of grilled yakitori would fill the air, the lights would begin to shine, and distant shamisen music would drift from wooden teahouses. No plans, just strolling, observing, and taking it all in.
Saturday: Dreams of Bamboo, Matcha, and Temples I would start the morning with a peaceful trip to the Fushimi Inari Shrine, where I would silently contemplate as I passed beneath thousands of scarlet torii gates.
After that, stop by a nearby tea establishment for a matcha break before continuing on to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where tall green stalks wave softly in the wind like a soul satisfying melody.
Lunch? In a little ramen cafe, strangers sit side by side and eat contentedly as steam rises from an appealing bowl.
Sunday: Relax Before Traveling “Back”
I would spend my Sunday morning at Ryoanji Temple, looking at the serene rock garden in silence, perhaps purchasing a handcrafted memento from the Nishiki Market, or watching the cherry blossoms (or autumn leaves) fall in slow motion in Maruyama Park. After taking a few deep breaths and sipping a cup of matcha, I would return to my everyday life feeling rejuvenated and inspired.
What about you?
Tell me, if you could travel anywhere this Friday, where would you go?
A bustling market in Marrakech? A quiet cabin in the Alps? A sunset beach in Bali?
Let your imagination run wild, and share your thoughts in the comments, fellow dreamers.
