Family Adventure in the Cultural Heart of Japan: Kyoto

A Day of Reflection and Heights

As our family adventure in Kyoto draws to a close, today was a day of savoring the last moments, reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared, and taking in the city from new perspectives. It's hard to believe our eleven days here are already coming to an end. Each temple, garden, and bustling street has woven its way into our hearts, leaving us with memories we'll cherish forever.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Yoshikawa. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our final day of exploration. We savored every bite, reminiscing about our favorite meals throughout the trip. I especially enjoyed the traditional Japanese breakfast set, while Hans was thrilled with the perfectly cooked fish. Elif, of course, loved the miso soup.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Yoshikawa, where tradition meets exceptional flavors in the heart of Kyoto.

With renewed energy, we set off to visit Toji Temple. The temple's pagoda is an iconic symbol of Kyoto, and I was eager to see it up close. As we approached, the sheer size and intricate details of the pagoda were awe-inspiring. The vibrant colors and traditional architecture stood out beautifully against the clear morning sky. We wandered through the temple grounds, taking in the serene atmosphere and admiring the various halls and gardens. It was a peaceful escape from the bustling city, a place where we could reflect on our journey and appreciate the beauty of Japanese culture.


Experience the majestic Tōji Temple in Kyoto, home to Japan's tallest pagoda and a serene escape into Buddhist history and culture.

The best journey always takes us home, even if only in memory.

After immersing ourselves in the tranquility of Toji Temple, we decided to experience Kyoto from a different vantage point: the Kyoto Tower. Elif was particularly excited about this, as she loves seeing cities from above. As we ascended in the elevator, the anticipation grew. Stepping out onto the observation deck, we were greeted with a breathtaking panoramic view of Kyoto. The city stretched out before us, a tapestry of temples, gardens, and modern buildings.


Experience breathtaking views of Kyoto's skyline and rich history at Nidec Kyoto Tower, a perfect blend of modern architecture and cultural heritage.

We spent a good hour pointing out the landmarks we had visited during our stay, from Kiyomizu-dera Temple to Fushimi Inari Shrine. It was a wonderful way to solidify our memories and gain a new appreciation for the city's layout and beauty. Hans, with his engineering mind, was fascinated by the tower's structure and design, while I simply enjoyed soaking in the stunning scenery. Elif, ever the photographer, captured countless photos to share with her friends back home.

After our sky-high adventure, we ventured into the Daimaru Kyoto Store for some last-minute shopping. I was on the hunt for some unique textiles to add to my collection, while Hans was interested in finding some traditional Japanese crafts. Elif, as always, was drawn to the latest fashion trends. The Daimaru store was a treasure trove of local goods and international brands, and we spent a pleasant afternoon browsing the various departments. I found some beautiful silk scarves with intricate patterns, perfect for incorporating into my textile art. Hans discovered a set of handcrafted wooden bowls, and Elif found a stylish new handbag.


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

For lunch, we decided to try Komefuku, a restaurant known for its delicious tempura. We had heard rave reviews about their light and crispy batter, and we were not disappointed. Each piece of tempura was cooked to perfection, and the dipping sauce was the perfect complement. We savored every bite, enjoying the delicate flavors and textures. It was a delightful culinary experience and a fitting way to celebrate our last lunch in Kyoto. Hans even tried some sushi and enjoyed it.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Komefuku in Kyoto, renowned for its fresh seafood and exquisite tempura dishes.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Oryori Menami for our final dinner. This restaurant is known for its traditional Kyoto cuisine, and we were eager to experience its authentic flavors. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff greeted us with genuine hospitality. We ordered a variety of dishes, each one showcasing the unique ingredients and culinary techniques of the region. From the delicate sashimi to the flavorful simmered vegetables, every dish was a work of art. It was a truly memorable dining experience and a perfect way to end our culinary journey in Kyoto.


Experience authentic Obanzai cuisine in Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward at Oryori Menami - where tradition meets taste.

As I reflect on our time in Kyoto, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to have experienced this enchanting city with my family. From the ancient temples to the bustling markets, every moment has been a treasure. I am especially grateful for the chance to have shared this experience with Hans and Elif, creating memories that will last a lifetime. While I am sad to leave, I know that Kyoto will always hold a special place in my heart. Perhaps one day, we will return to explore even more of its hidden gems. Tomorrow, we start our journey back home to Stuttgart, filled with stories, photos, and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of Japanese culture.

I am already looking forward to incorporating the inspiration I gained here into my textile art. The colors, patterns, and textures of Kyoto's temples, gardens, and kimonos will undoubtedly find their way into my future creations. And who knows, maybe our next family adventure will be inspired by the art and culture of Japan as well.