I’m SJF, living in Kyoto and sharing the sounds and small details of this city — from rivers and temple gardens to local festivals. These letters follow my life here, my podcast Kyoto, in Sound, and the Sound Walks I guide, all with the hope of noticing what might otherwise be missed.
It’s approaching cherry blossom season here, (check the cherry blossom forecast) which means Kyoto is currently doing what Kyoto does best each and every spring — being extraordinarily beautiful but also completely overwhelming.
Every day I walk past the queues of people with their spreadsheets and saved maps. Soon they’ll be busy rushing around trying to see everything before the petals fall.
Well, that’s certainly one way to experience this city.
My video letter this week is about the trap that comes from idolising the spreadsheet — and what happens when you let go.
It’s also about the thing I think Kyoto actually does best. Which isn’t any one particular temple or garden, but more of an atmosphere. Something a bit harder to photograph.
And if you know someone who’s currently planning a trip to Kyoto — this one might be worth sending their way. Sharing it genuinely helps the project along. More than you might think.
A real thank you, as always, to the paid subscribers. You’re the reason I get to make these videos and I’m truly grateful for it.
If you’ve got a few extra minutes, you may also like these previous video letters:
Thank you for listening. Thank you for noticing.
SJF
