Cultural Immersion in Kyoto: A Family Journey

Whispers of Ancient Echoes

Today, Daniel and I embarked on a journey through Kyoto's serene temples and contemplative paths, seeking a deeper connection with the city's spiritual side. It was a day filled with the quiet beauty that I've come to adore about Kyoto, a chance to slow down and reflect amidst the hustle of our travels.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Kikunoi Roan. The traditional Kaiseki breakfast was an exquisite start to the day, a symphony of subtle flavors and delicate presentations. It was a culinary experience that set the tone for a day of refined exploration.

Heian Shrine: A Burst of Vermilion

Our first stop was the Heian Shrine. The vibrant vermilion architecture against the clear February sky was breathtaking. The shrine, built to commemorate Kyoto's 1100th anniversary, is a partial replica of the Imperial Palace from the Heian Period. The sheer scale of the Otenmon gate and the main hall left me in awe. We strolled through the Shin-en Garden, a masterpiece of Japanese garden design, with its serene pond and meticulously arranged flora. The early morning light cast long shadows, enhancing the garden's tranquil atmosphere.


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

I learned that the Heian Shrine often hosts a Setsubun festival in February, featuring traditional rituals, ogre banishing, and bean throwing. Although we missed the main event, the festive atmosphere still lingered, adding a touch of vibrancy to the serene surroundings. The shrine was built in 1895 to commemorate 1,100 years of peaceful relocation of the imperial capital. The main hall is considered an iconic masterpiece of Japanese styled gardens.

Philosopher's Path: A Walk of Contemplation

Next, we ventured to the Philosopher's Path. This stone path follows a cherry-tree-lined canal, connecting the Silver Pavilion with the Nanzen-ji neighborhood. Even in February, without the famed cherry blossoms, the path held a quiet charm. The bare branches of the trees reached towards the sky, creating intricate patterns against the winter light. I could imagine the path transformed into a tunnel of pink during cherry blossom season, but there was something special about its stark beauty in winter.


Explore the Philosopher's Path, a serene journey through nature and philosophy in Kyoto, lined with cherry blossoms and historic temples.

As we walked, I thought about Nishida Kitaro, the philosopher who walked this path daily in deep contemplation. The quiet murmur of the canal and the rustling of the bamboo created a peaceful ambiance, inviting introspection. It was easy to see why this path was conducive to philosophical thought. We paused on a small bridge, watching the ducks glide along the water, their movements slow and deliberate.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its grand temples, but also in its quiet corners, where history and nature intertwine.

The Philosopher's Path is about 2 kilometers long and may take more than 30 minutes to walk. It connects the Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji) with the neighborhood of Nanzen-ji. The path is named after the philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who is said to have used this route for daily meditation. The path is exceptionally popular during the cherry blossom season. The path is different but equally delightful outside of cherry blossom season. In late November when the maple trees ignite in brilliant shades of orange, red, and yellow.

Nanzen-ji: A Zen Oasis

Our final temple of the day was Nanzen-ji. The temple's spacious grounds at the base of Kyoto's Higashiyama mountains exuded a sense of Zen serenity. We entered through the massive Sanmon entrance gate, marveling at its size and the intricate carvings. The gate was constructed in 1628 by the ruling Tokugawa clan for soldiers who died in the siege of Osaka Castle in 1615. We explored the Hojo, the former head priest's residence, and its famed rock garden. The rocks are said to resemble tigers and cubs crossing through water, and I spent a long time contemplating the arrangement, trying to discern the hidden meaning.


Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Nanzen-ji Temple, a stunning Buddhist sanctuary nestled in the heart of Kyoto's natural landscape.

One of the unique features of Nanzen-ji is the brick aqueduct that passes through the temple grounds. Built during the Meiji Period, it's a reminder of Kyoto's blend of ancient traditions and modern innovations. It was part of a canal system that was constructed to carry water and goods between Kyoto and Lake Biwa. We also visited Tenjuan, a sub-temple of Nanzen-ji, and enjoyed the charming autumn leaves in two distinct gardens. The dry landscape rock garden with a geometric stone walkway was captivating. We also explored Nanzenin Temple, located just behind the aqueduct on the former location of Emperor Kameyama’s original retirement villa.

Nanzen-ji is one of the most important Zen temples in all of Japan and includes multiple subtemples. Nanzenji’s central temple grounds are open to the public free of charge, but separate fees apply for entering temple buildings and subtemples. The history of Nanzenji dates back to the mid 13th century, when the Emperor Kameyama built his retirement villa at the temple's present location and later converted it into a Zen temple.

Retail Therapy at Daimaru Kyoto Store

After a day of spiritual exploration, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at the Daimaru Kyoto Store. I was hoping to find a special souvenir to remind me of our time in Kyoto. I had heard about the Chocolat Promenade, a special event featuring a wide range of chocolates and sweets, but it had already ended on February 14th. Nevertheless, the department store was bustling with activity, and we enjoyed browsing through the various shops. We ended up buying a beautiful silk scarf with a traditional Kyoto design, a perfect memento of our trip.


Explore the heart of Kyoto shopping at Daimaru Kyoto Store, where tradition meets modernity in a vibrant department store experience.

A Culinary Finale

For dinner, we had reservations at Gion Mikaku, a renowned steakhouse in the Gion district. The restaurant is known for serving Tajima-brand beef, carefully raised by local dairy farmers. We opted for the Teppanyaki course, where the chef cooked the steak right in front of us on an iron plate. The beef was incredibly tender and flavorful, and the experience was a perfect ending to a day of cultural immersion. The restaurant has been serving “TAIRO” (the highest premium rank beef) of Tajima-brand cow since the beginning of their service. The restaurant was founded in 1929. At the counter seat you are to enjoy the Teppanyaki steak.


Discover Gion Mikaku, where exceptional steak meets authentic Japanese culture in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district.

As we walked back to M's Hotel Sanjo Wakoku, the city was bathed in a soft glow. The day had been a perfect blend of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and culinary delights. I felt a sense of peace and contentment, grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of Kyoto with Daniel.


Discover comfort and convenience at M’s Hotel Sanjo Wakoku, a serene retreat in the heart of Kyoto, perfect for travelers seeking culture and relaxation.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Gion district, visit Yasaka Shrine, and wander through Pontocho. I'm particularly looking forward to experiencing the nightlife and perhaps stopping by The Common One Bar Kyoto for a nightcap. Until then, o-yasumi nasai (good night) from Kyoto.

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel, to experience different cultures, to see new things, and to learn more about myself in the process. I am so grateful that I have Daniel to share these experiences with. It makes it all the more special.

I'm also glad that I didn't forget any of the essentials today! I made sure to bring my camera, comfortable walking shoes, and reusable water bottle. It's the little things that make a big difference when you're traveling.

As I reflect on our time here, I'm reminded of the importance of sustainability. We can all do our part to protect the environment and preserve these beautiful places for future generations. Whether it's using a reusable water bottle, taking public transportation, or supporting local businesses, every little bit helps.

I feel so fortunate to be able to share these experiences with you all. Thank you for following along on our journey!

I'm also grateful for the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals through my blog. It's so inspiring to hear from others who share my passion for travel and cultural immersion. I hope that my posts inspire you to step outside your comfort zone and explore the world.

Until tomorrow, stay curious and keep exploring!