While Mom celebrated in Jaipur, we spent her birthday exploring Kyoto’s temples, markets, and the Kamo River.
Today was my mother’s birthday. She celebrated in Jaipur while we were in Kyoto, which made the day feel connected across two cities.
Kyoto may be the Japanese city I found to have the strongest character and identity. It felt magical.
We visited temples, walked along the Kamo River where our hotel was located, strolled through the markets, and explored the city. There was a lot to see, but the day did not feel like a race through attractions. Kyoto’s character came through in the walking and the movement between places.
I kept thinking about Mom celebrating back home while we were having this very different kind of birthday day in Kyoto. Travel can create that strange distance: you are somewhere new, but the people who matter are still present in your thoughts.
Happy birthday, Mom.
