Words & Photographs by Holly Farrier

While I was in Japan in March, as part of a lengthy journey across Asia, COVID-19 began escalating day by day and the worrying news was coming in thick and fast. We arrived on the 10th, and got to spend two incredible weeks in a very quiet Japan before cutting our trip short and following the government’s advice to return home to the U.K. Right now, while we are all staying home, I am holding these memories so dear and hope that these photographs can bring you some zen or escapism. 

Having perused hundreds of beautiful photographs, Kyoto was the city I was most excited to see … and it did not disappoint. There were seemingly endless places to explore, eat, have coffee, shop and immerse ourselves in astounding nature. It is a photographer’s paradise!

Due to the situation evolving as we were travelling, we appreciated more than ever having a wonderfully calm and secure house to call home for the week. We stayed in two of Maana Homes immaculately renovated machiya houses, which mix traditional Japanese design and craftsmanship with a minimal style. It was calming just being in these spaces and they have everything you need to practice the Japanese concept of Zen; yoga mats, stunning ceramic tea sets for ceremonies and a bath big enough to feel like a private onsen. For those in Japan, they are still operating business as usual for now, and for the rest of us I urge you to visit when this is all over, for an accommodation experience in Kyoto that inspires the mind. 

To learn more, or make a booking, click here.

If you’re after a little more travel inspiration, the Japan magazine is available over on the online shop.