Family Adventure in the Cultural Heart of Japan: Kyoto

Finding Peace in Kyoto's Gardens

Today, the ninth day of our family adventure in Kyoto, was a beautiful exploration of tranquility amidst the bustling city. With the cherry blossoms beginning to bloom, Kyoto felt like a dream, blending history, nature, and delightful culinary experiences. It was a day where we slowed down, breathed deeply, and truly appreciated the serene beauty around us.

Our day began with a lovely breakfast at Antonio. It was a charming start, offering a taste of Spain in the heart of Kyoto. Hans particularly enjoyed the strong coffee, which reminded him of our favorite cafes back in Stuttgart. Elif, of course, was all about the pastries, and I savored the flavors of a traditional Spanish breakfast, a delightful change of pace from our usual Turkish fare. It’s always nice to find a bit of familiarity in new places, and Antonio provided just that. The experience set a warm, comforting tone for the day ahead.


Discover authentic Spanish flavors at Antonio in Kyoto – where culinary artistry meets vibrant ambiance.

After breakfast, we made our way to Kodaiji Temple. It was founded in 1606 by Kita no Mandokoro, also known as Nene, in memory of her late husband Toyotomi Hideyoshi. As we walked through the serene gardens, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over me. The meticulous landscaping, with its raked gravel representing the vast ocean, was truly mesmerizing. The construction made only limited impact on our visit, and we were able to enjoy the main hall and gardens without disruption. I found myself reflecting on Nene's devotion and strength, building such a beautiful tribute to her husband. It reminded me of the enduring power of love and memory, something that resonates deeply within my own marriage to Hans.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Kodaiji Temple, a historical Buddhist temple in Kyoto, showcasing stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.

In the heart of Kyoto, amidst temples and gardens, we found not just beauty, but a reflection of enduring love and the tranquil rhythm of life.

Wandering further, we discovered the mausoleum of Hideyoshi and Nene, adorned with exquisite lacquerwork known as Kodaiji Makie. The intricate designs of gold and silver were breathtaking. We also visited the two tea houses, one designed by the renowned tea master Sen no Rikyu. I could almost picture Hideyoshi, a fervent tea ceremony practitioner, enjoying a quiet moment of reflection there. As a textile artist, I was particularly drawn to the detailed craftsmanship and the stories woven into every corner of the temple. Kodaiji felt like a journey through time, a poignant reminder of the lives and legacies of those who came before us.

Next on our itinerary was Maruyama Park, Kyoto's most famous cherry blossom park. As we entered, we were greeted by a breathtaking sight: cherry trees in full bloom, their delicate pink petals creating a dreamy canopy above us. Even though it’s still early March, some of the early-blooming varieties were already showing off their splendor. The park was alive with locals and tourists alike, all eager to capture the beauty of the season. The towering weeping cherry tree, illuminated by lanterns, was especially enchanting. Hans, Elif, and I strolled through the park, taking in the sights and sounds of spring. It felt like a scene from a painting, a perfect moment of harmony between nature and humanity.


Experience the natural beauty of Maruyama Park in Kyoto, a serene oasis filled with cherry blossoms and cultural heritage.

We enjoyed a leisurely lunch at Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi. It was another culinary delight, offering a taste of local flavors in a cozy setting. The restaurant is located along Takase river, and it has relaxed atmosphere, making it the best place for a dinner with your important guest. As we savored each dish, we chatted about our favorite moments of the trip so far, reminiscing about the vibrant markets of Osaka and the peaceful temples of Nara. Food has a way of bringing people together, and this lunch was no exception. It was a simple yet perfect interlude in our day of exploration.


Experience Kyoto's vibrant food scene with authentic yakiniku at Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi, where every bite tells a delicious story.

After lunch, I decided to indulge in a little shopping at Kazari Nishiki in Nishiki Market. This charming store offers a delightful array of seasonal Japanese goods and Western clothing with a touch of Kyoto. I was particularly drawn to the beautiful silk scarves and handcrafted jewelry. The owner has a great importance on the sense of season, changing the store's looks and product mix each month with the seasons of Kyoto in mind. I picked up a few souvenirs for friends back home, wanting to share a piece of Kyoto's beauty with them. As someone who appreciates craftsmanship and unique designs, I found Kazari Nishiki to be a treasure trove of inspiration.


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

For dinner, we treated ourselves to a special meal at Premium Pound Gion. This teppanyaki restaurant offered a unique dining experience, with the chef preparing our meal right before our eyes. The chef was not only incredibly skilled but also very friendly, making the evening even more enjoyable. The food was exquisite, with high-quality Japanese beef cooked to perfection. It was a memorable culinary experience, a perfect way to end our day of serenity and spring's whisper in Kyoto. The cozy atmosphere and hospitable staff made us feel right at home, a truly delightful way to cap off our day.


Experience culinary artistry at Premium Pound Gion – where French cuisine meets Japanese teppanyaki in the heart of Kyoto's historic Gion district.

As we head back to Tokyu Stay Kyoto Sanjo-Karasuma, I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures. We plan to visit Ryozen Kannon Temple and Sanjusangendo Temple, and perhaps enjoy a drink at Bar Fishbowl in the evening. Each day in Kyoto brings new discoveries and cherished memories. It is a journey that I am so grateful to share with my family, a testament to the beauty of travel and the bonds that connect us. It has been a beautiful day, and I am excited to see what tomorrow brings.


Experience comfort and convenience at Tokyu Stay Kyoto Sanjo-Karasuma, near top attractions like Nijo Castle and the Kyoto International Manga Museum.

I also learned about a local event today, the Rain Prayer Festival (Amagoi Sai) at Kifune Shrine. Held every year on March 9th, it's a traditional event to pray for favorable weather and a bountiful harvest. I found it fascinating how deeply rooted these traditions are in the local culture, and it's something I hope to witness on a future visit.

Tonight, as I reflect on our day, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience Kyoto's beauty and tranquility. It is a city that nourishes the soul, a place where history and nature intertwine to create a truly magical experience. And as I drift off to sleep, I can't help but smile, knowing that tomorrow will bring even more adventures and discoveries.

Until then, good night from Kyoto!