Cultural Immersion in Kyoto: A Family Journey

Glimmers of Gold and Whispers of Zen

Today was a day of seeking serenity and beauty amidst the historical tapestry of Kyoto. Daniel and I embarked on a journey to two of the city's most iconic temples, each offering a unique perspective on Japanese culture and spirituality. From the shimmering Golden Pavilion to the enigmatic rock garden, the day was filled with moments of awe and quiet contemplation.


Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Alice On Wednesday. The cafe's whimsical Alice in Wonderland theme was a fun and quirky start to a day steeped in tradition. I couldn't resist taking a few photos of the intricately decorated interior; it felt like stepping into a fairytale. Daniel, ever the pragmatist, was more interested in the pastries, which, I must admit, were as delicious as they were visually appealing.



Discover whimsical fashion accessories and delectable desserts at Alice On Wednesday in Osaka's lively Nishishinsaibashi district.

In the heart of Kyoto, history whispers through golden leaves and ancient stones, inviting us to pause and reflect.

Kinkaku-ji: The Golden Pavilion's Gleam

Our first major stop was Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. As we approached, the sight of the temple shimmering in the morning light was truly breathtaking. The top two floors, covered entirely in gold leaf, reflected brilliantly on the surface of the Kyoko-chi Pond. It felt like a scene lifted straight from a postcard. The history of Kinkaku-ji is fascinating; originally built in 1397 as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, it was later converted into a Zen Buddhist temple after his death in 1408. The temple has been rebuilt several times, most recently in 1955, after being burned down by a monk in 1950.



Explore Kinkaku-ji, the breathtaking Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, where history and nature blend beautifully in a tranquil setting.

As we strolled through the gardens surrounding the pavilion, I couldn't help but marvel at the meticulous care and artistry that went into every detail. The gardens feature several other points of interest, including the Anmintaku Pond, which is said to never dry up, and statues where visitors toss coins for luck. Daniel, ever the history enthusiast, was engrossed in reading about the temple's past and the various architectural styles represented in its three stories. The first floor is built in the Shinden style, used for palace buildings during the Heian Period. The second floor is built in the Bukke style, used in samurai residences, and the third floor is built in the style of a Chinese Zen hall.


We also visited the Sekkatei Teahouse, which was added during the Edo Period. Although we didn't stop for tea, the teahouse offered a beautiful view of the Golden Pavilion and the surrounding landscape. Before leaving the temple grounds, we stopped at the Fudo Hall, a small temple hall housing a statue of Fudo Myoo, one of the Five Wisdom Kings and protector of Buddhism. It's said that the statue was carved by Kobo Daishi, a significant figure in Japanese religious history.


Kinkaku-ji is truly a feast for the eyes, and I'm so glad we made the effort to see it in person. It’s no wonder this is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Kyoto. The temple is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and I recommend arriving early to avoid the crowds and catch the best light for photos.

Ryoan-ji: Finding Peace in the Rock Garden

After the visual splendor of Kinkaku-ji, we sought a different kind of experience at Ryoan-ji, home to Japan's most famous rock garden. Originally an aristocrat's villa during the Heian Period, the site was converted into a Zen temple in 1450. As we approached the garden, I was immediately struck by its simplicity and tranquility. The garden consists of a rectangular plot of pebbles surrounded by low earthen walls, with 15 rocks laid out in small groups on patches of moss. It's a minimalist masterpiece that invites contemplation and introspection.



Discover the tranquility of Ryoan-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, featuring a world-famous rock garden and serene landscapes that inspire peace and reflection.

One of the most interesting features of the garden's design is that from any vantage point, at least one of the rocks is always hidden from the viewer. This is said to symbolize the imperfection inherent in life and the Zen concept of "wabi-sabi," which embraces the beauty of imperfection and impermanence. The meaning of the garden is open to interpretation, with some believing it represents islands in a sea or a tiger carrying cubs across a pond. Ultimately, it's up to each viewer to find their own meaning in the arrangement of rocks and pebbles.


We spent a considerable amount of time sitting on the veranda of the Hojo, the head priest's former residence, gazing at the rock garden and allowing its serenity to wash over us. It was a welcome contrast to the bustling crowds at Kinkaku-ji and a chance to slow down and appreciate the simple beauty of nature. The winter hours are from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, and I recommend visiting early in the morning to avoid the crowds and fully immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere.


The temple grounds also include a spacious park area with a pond, which dates back to the time when the site served as an aristocrat's villa. We took a leisurely stroll around the pond, admiring the small shrine on one of its islands and the surrounding landscape. It was a perfect way to end our visit to Ryoan-ji, leaving us feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

A Culinary Journey: Lunch and Dinner Delights

For lunch, we ventured to Masayoshi Japanese Dining, a restaurant known for its exquisite sukiyaki and steak made with carefully selected black wagyu beef. The restaurant is housed in a stylishly renovated 150-year-old Kyoto townhouse, creating an elegant atmosphere that perfectly complements the delicious food. Daniel opted for the Angus beef steak, while I chose the wagyu sukiyaki. Both dishes were cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The craft chuhai also offered unique flavors, adding a special touch to our meal.



Experience authentic Japanese steakhouse dining at Masayoshi in Kyoto—where tradition meets culinary excellence.

In the evening, we indulged in a truly unforgettable dining experience at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION. This fine-dining restaurant, located in the heart of Gion, is renowned for serving some of the best Kobe beef in Japan. We were seated at a private room, where a personal chef prepared our meal on a teppan hot plate right before our eyes. The chef started by cooking garlic chips, which were crispy and fragrant, followed by vegetables such as zucchini and asparagus. For the main course, we ordered both the Chateaubriand and Rib eye Kobe beef, cooked medium well. The beef was incredibly tender and flavorful, practically melting in our mouths. It was the epitome of culinary excellence.



Experience unparalleled flavors at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION in Kyoto - a must-visit for steak lovers seeking authenticity.

To add more carbs, we also ordered garlic fried rice, which was slightly different from what we had in Kobe. In Kyoto, the fried rice had more toppings and tasted delicious. For dessert, we enjoyed a sweet ice cream with fresh berries, a perfect ending to a perfect meal.

Shopping for Souvenirs: Kazari Nishiki

Before dinner, we took some time to explore the local shops and find souvenirs to take back home. We stumbled upon Kazari Nishiki, a charming store located in the vibrant streets of Kyoto. This shop is known for its exquisite selection of Japanese souvenirs, ranging from delicate ceramics to beautifully crafted textiles. I was particularly drawn to the traditional kimonos and hand-painted fans, while Daniel admired the intricate woodblock prints. Each item was carefully curated, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Japan. The store's warm and inviting atmosphere made it an enjoyable place to explore. I ended up buying a beautiful silk scarf with a traditional Kyoto design, while Daniel chose a set of handcrafted ceramic tea cups. It was the perfect way to commemorate our day of temples and tranquility.



Discover the artistry of Kyoto at Kazari Nishiki, your ultimate destination for authentic Japanese souvenirs and traditional crafts.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder. Kyoto has a way of captivating the soul, inviting you to slow down, appreciate the beauty around you, and connect with the rich cultural heritage that permeates every corner of the city. Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Nijo Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace and Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. And in the evening we are planning to check out Bar K6. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!