In Kyoto, I Don’t Dream, I Feel

Culture Lounge: Japan is a big part of your life. As a very sensible and secret writer and critic, what have you learned there? 

François Simon: I've learned to renounce all knowledge. Not to refuse the real Japan, but to settle into the present moment and stop thinking, to go blank and capture another reality.

How would you define serenity in Kyoto? 

First, you must welcome serenity within yourself. In Kyoto, I saw a couple of Russian tourists dressed in traditional Japanese clothing, running around with a baby in a baby carriage. This encouraged me to go and pick up serenity the other way round, away from the tourist spots. Get up early, choose the alleys, wait for the night, be silent and savor the beauty of Kyoto.

Why Kyoto more than Tokyo in 2024? 

Kyoto remains a special place if you can slip into its folds. Tokyo remains formidably attractive in its energy and modernity, but I'd almost prefer Osaka and Sapporo.

Kyoto is usually considered famous for its temples, its gardens, and wooden architecture.  But this city is more than a city, and the Kyoto-addicted consider it as an experience. What did you want to celebrate and share in this book?

You're right to talk about experience. I'd even go a step further and think in terms of experimentation—looking where you're not, zoning out relentlessly, forgetting about tourist obligations, doing nothing, breathing, having a slow cup of tea, strolling in remote neighbourhoods.