Family Adventure in the Cultural Heart of Japan: Kyoto

Kyoto's Quiet Charms

Today, Kyoto revealed a different facet of its charm, one that spoke of serenity and natural beauty, a welcome contrast to the bustling temples and crowded streets I've previously explored. With Hans and Elif by my side, I embarked on a journey to discover the tranquil corners of this ancient city, finding solace in the vibrant colors of Heian Shrine and the peaceful expanse of the Kyoto Botanical Gardens.


Experience the tranquil beauty and cultural richness of Heian Shrine in Kyoto, a must-visit Shinto shrine surrounded by stunning gardens.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at The Cellar Kyoto. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of a unique dining experience had drawn me in. The restaurant, true to its name, felt like a hidden gem, a secret cellar where culinary artistry thrived. We enjoyed a lovely selection of pastries and coffee, the perfect fuel for the day's adventures. The warm ambiance and friendly staff made us feel right at home, a sentiment that resonated with my love for discovering hidden treasures in every city I visit.


Discover culinary excellence at The Cellar Kyoto - where creative cuisine meets fine wine in a stylish setting.

From there, we made our way to Heian Shrine, a place I had eagerly anticipated seeing. The shrine's striking vermilion architecture against the backdrop of the clear blue sky was a sight to behold. The vast courtyard offered a sense of spaciousness, allowing us to wander and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. As a textile artist, I was particularly drawn to the intricate details of the shrine's design, the vibrant colors and the meticulous craftsmanship. It reminded me of the detailed work that goes into creating a beautiful piece of fabric, each thread carefully placed to create a harmonious whole.

We explored the Shinen Garden, a tranquil oasis filled with ponds, bridges, and meticulously manicured landscapes. The early cherry blossoms were just beginning to bloom, adding a touch of delicate pink to the scenery. It was a scene straight out of a painting, and I couldn't resist capturing its beauty with my camera. Hans, ever the patient companion, helped me find the best angles, while Elif, with her youthful energy, skipped ahead, eager to discover every hidden corner. I learned that Heian Jingu Shrine is celebrating its 130th anniversary and will hold the “Heian Jingu Shrine Sakura Oto Yoru – Benishidare Concert 2025” in April. It sounds like a magical event, combining music and the beauty of the illuminated red weeping cherry blossoms.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in grand gestures, but in the quiet moments of reflection and appreciation.

For lunch, we chose Masayoshi Japanese Dining, a place recommended for its authentic Japanese cuisine. The restaurant was small and intimate, with a cozy atmosphere that made us feel like we were dining in someone's home. We savored a variety of traditional dishes, each one a culinary masterpiece. The flavors were delicate and nuanced, a testament to the chef's skill and the quality of the ingredients. It was a delightful experience, a true immersion into the heart of Japanese cuisine. I was happy to see Hans enjoy the meal so much, as he is sometimes hesitant to try new things. Elif, of course, was adventurous as always, trying every dish with enthusiasm.


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

In the afternoon, we ventured to the Kyoto Botanical Gardens, a sprawling oasis of greenery in the heart of the city. As someone who finds solace in nature, I was immediately captivated by the gardens' serene atmosphere. We strolled through the various sections, admiring the diverse collection of plants and flowers. From the vibrant colors of the tropical greenhouse to the peaceful tranquility of the Japanese garden, there was something to captivate every sense. The gardens are celebrating the “LIGHT CYCLES KYOTO” event until March 31st of next year, which uses light and sound to reveal nature’s secrets. I will have to remember to come back to see it.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kyoto Botanical Gardens, an enchanting sanctuary showcasing diverse flora and stunning landscapes in Kyoto, Japan.

I was particularly drawn to the cherry blossom grove, where the trees were just beginning to bloom. The delicate pink blossoms against the backdrop of the clear blue sky was a breathtaking sight, a reminder of the fleeting beauty of spring. We spent hours wandering through the gardens, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and enjoying the company of each other. It was a perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature. I even found some inspiration for my textile art, the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of the flowers sparking new ideas in my mind.

Before dinner, we stopped by GIFT KIOSK for some souvenirs. I picked up a few small trinkets to remind me of our time in Kyoto, as well as some gifts for friends back home. It's always a pleasure to find unique and locally made items, a way to support the local artisans and share a piece of our travels with others.


Discover the charm of Kyoto at GIFT KIOSK, your go-to souvenir shop in the heart of Kyoto Station, featuring unique crafts and local delicacies.

For dinner, we decided on Chihana, a restaurant known for its exquisite Kaiseki cuisine. The restaurant was elegant and refined, with a serene atmosphere that set the stage for a memorable dining experience. We indulged in a multi-course meal, each dish a work of art. The flavors were delicate and complex, a testament to the chef's skill and the quality of the ingredients. It was a truly unforgettable experience, a celebration of Japanese culinary artistry. The restaurant has been awarded with 3 Michelin stars for a while now, and I can see why. The food is exquisite, like a short poem.


Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Chihana in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district - where tradition meets culinary artistry.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on the beauty and tranquility we had experienced. Kyoto had revealed a different side of itself, one that spoke of serenity and natural beauty. It was a day of quiet contemplation and appreciation, a reminder of the simple joys in life. I am grateful for the opportunity to share these moments with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we'll be exploring Gion and Yasaka Shrine. I'm particularly excited to wander through Gion's historic streets and perhaps catch a glimpse of a geisha. I'm also looking forward to visiting Yasaka Shrine, known for its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful architecture. But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today, the quiet charms of Kyoto that have captured my heart.

We will have breakfast at Ryu no Hige, lunch at Jiki Miyazawa, and dinner at Gion Nanba. I am also looking forward to visiting UNDERBAR-KYOTO, a bar that sounds like a fun place to end the day. Until then, good night from Kyoto!