Family Cultural Exploration in Kyoto

A Day of Serenity and Stories

As our Kyoto adventure draws to a close, I wanted to soak in every last bit of this magical city. Today was a blend of tranquility, pop culture, and culinary delights – a perfect way to bid farewell to Kyoto.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Fujiya. It was a recommendation I had seen, and it turned out to be the perfect way to start our day. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the food was simply divine. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, while Klaus went for a Western-style omelet. Ama, of course, enjoyed some rice and miso soup, happily slurping away.


Discover the exquisite flavors of traditional kaiseki cuisine at Fujiya in Kyoto - where every meal is a masterpiece.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we made our way to the Heian Shrine. The shrine's vibrant vermillion architecture was striking against the clear blue sky. The vast courtyard offered a sense of peace, a welcome contrast to the bustling city outside. We strolled through the gardens, admiring the meticulously manicured landscapes and serene ponds. The Heian Shrine, built to commemorate Kyoto's 1100th anniversary as the capital, beautifully mirrors the Heian period's architectural style. It felt like stepping back in time, imagining the emperors and empresses who once walked these grounds. Ama was fascinated by the large expanse of gravel, attempting to draw patterns with her tiny feet, much to the amusement of Klaus and me.


Explore Heian Shrine in Kyoto for a serene experience of stunning gardens, rich history, and traditional Japanese architecture.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

Next on our itinerary was the Kyoto Botanical Gardens. As a software developer specializing in AI for sustainable agriculture, I always appreciate the opportunity to immerse myself in nature. And these gardens were simply breathtaking. The sheer variety of plant life was astounding, from towering trees to delicate orchids. Ama was particularly captivated by the conservatory, where we explored tropical and subtropical plants from around the world. The vibrant colors and exotic scents were a feast for the senses. Klaus, ever the architect, was impressed by the garden's layout and design, noting how seamlessly it blended natural beauty with human artistry. We wandered along the camphor tree-lined avenue, feeling a sense of peace and tranquility wash over us. It was the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of city life.


Explore the Kyoto Botanical Gardens, a tranquil oasis showcasing diverse flora and stunning landscapes in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.

After our botanical adventure, we ventured into the world of manga at the Kyoto International Manga Museum. I'll admit, I'm not the biggest manga aficionado, but I was intrigued by the museum's vast collection and its dedication to preserving this unique art form. Ama, on the other hand, was immediately drawn to the colorful displays and the rows upon rows of manga books. We spent hours exploring the museum, learning about the history of manga and its cultural significance. Klaus even tried his hand at drawing a manga character, with surprisingly impressive results. The museum is housed in a former school building, which added to its charm and character. It was fascinating to see how this traditional space had been transformed into a celebration of modern pop culture.


Explore the rich world of Japanese comics at Kyoto International Manga Museum, a cultural gem in Kyoto offering extensive manga collections and engaging exhibitions.

For lunch, we decided to try Kikuichimonjushirokanenaga honten, a knife shop that also offers a dining experience. As Klaus is very keen on Japanese knives, this was a must-visit for us. While Klaus was inspecting the knives, Ama and I enjoyed a light lunch. The food was delicious, but the real highlight was watching the skilled artisans at work, crafting these exquisite blades. It was a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship that Japan is known for.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine and exquisite craftsmanship at Kikuichimonjushirokanenaga Honten in historic Nara.

As evening approached, we indulged in a final Kyoto culinary experience at Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki & Teppan-yaki Kamehameha. This cozy restaurant offered a unique twist on the classic okonomiyaki, with a Hiroshima-style preparation that was both delicious and visually stunning. We sat at the counter, watching as the chefs expertly layered the ingredients and cooked the okonomiyaki on a sizzling teppan grill. The flavors were incredible, a perfect blend of savory and sweet. Ama, surprisingly, devoured her portion, declaring it her favorite meal of the trip. Klaus and I savored every bite, knowing that this was a taste of Kyoto we would not soon forget.


Discover authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Kamehameha, Kyoto's premier destination for delicious Japanese cuisine.

To cap off our final night, Klaus and I decided to sneak out for a nightcap at Bar Fishbowl. It was a quirky little spot with a relaxed atmosphere and a creative cocktail menu. We sipped on Japanese whisky, reminiscing about our adventures in Kyoto and making plans for future travels. It was the perfect way to end our trip, a quiet moment of connection and reflection.


Discover Kyoto's nightlife at Bar Fishbowl, a cocktail haven with stunning views and expertly crafted drinks in the heart of the city.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel a tinge of sadness that our Kyoto adventure is coming to an end. But I also feel incredibly grateful for the experiences we've shared, the memories we've made, and the cultural insights we've gained. Kyoto has truly captured our hearts, and I know we'll be back someday to explore more of its hidden gems. While tomorrow marks the end of our Kyoto adventure, it's certainly not goodbye. It's simply 'see you later' to a city that has given us so much. The flight back to Berlin will be filled with reflections and dreams of future adventures, with Ama already asking when we can return to see the pretty gardens again. And as we prepare to leave, I am reminded of a quote by the great travel writer, Freya Stark:

To awaken alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.

Until next time, Kyoto. Thank you for the memories.