Family Adventure in the Cultural Heart of Japan: Kyoto

Gion's Timeless Charm

Today, the eighth day of our Kyoto adventure, was dedicated to exploring the famed Gion district. It's a place I've long dreamt of visiting, a neighborhood steeped in history and known for its geishas, traditional teahouses, and meticulously preserved wooden machiya houses. I was eager to soak in its atmosphere and share the experience with my family. It felt like stepping back in time, wandering through streets where echoes of old Japan still resonate.


Explore Gion, Kyoto's iconic geisha district, where tradition meets charm in a captivating blend of culture and history.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at ryu no hige. It was a delightful fusion of Kyoto cuisine and French flavors. The buffet had a variety of options, but I particularly enjoyed the Kyoto-style grilled salmon. Hans, of course, went straight for the omelet. Elif tried a bit of everything, as usual. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration.


Discover the art of fusion dining at Ryu no Hige in Kyoto - where French elegance meets Japanese creativity.

With our bellies full, we set off to Gion. The district was already bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all eager to experience its magic. The narrow streets were lined with shops selling everything from traditional crafts to sweets. I couldn't resist picking up a few small souvenirs, little reminders of our time here. The scent of incense wafted from the temples, blending with the aroma of street food, creating a unique sensory experience.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its famous landmarks, but in the quiet moments of discovery found in its hidden corners.

Our first stop was Yasaka Shrine, a vibrant Shinto shrine at the eastern end of Gion. The bright vermilion gates stood out against the clear blue sky. We took our time wandering through the grounds, admiring the intricate details of the buildings and watching as locals and tourists alike offered prayers. I lit an incense stick and made a small offering, wishing for continued health and happiness for my family. The shrine was surprisingly manageable, not too crowded, which allowed us to stroll and take photos easily. I even spotted some plum blossoms, their sweet scent adding to the charm.


Explore the spiritual heart of Kyoto at Yasaka Shrine, a stunning Shinto shrine surrounded by vibrant festivals and serene beauty.

After the serene experience at Yasaka Shrine, it was time for lunch. We had reservations at Jiki Miyazawa, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its refined Kaiseki cuisine. The restaurant was small and intimate, with only ten counter seats, giving us a front-row view of the chef at work. We opted for the multi-course set menu, and each dish was a work of art. From the grilled octopus with watermelon and strawberry granita to the signature yaki-gomadōfu, every bite was an explosion of flavors and textures. It was a culinary experience that transcended mere sustenance, a true celebration of Japanese gastronomy. Elif was especially impressed with the presentation of each dish, snapping photos before we even had a chance to taste them. Hans, ever the pragmatist, simply declared it the best meal he'd had in a long time.


Indulge in an authentic Kaiseki dining experience at Jiki Miyazawa, where seasonal flavors meet exquisite presentation in the heart of Kyoto.

As the afternoon wore on, we continued our exploration of Gion, wandering through its maze of narrow streets and alleyways. We kept our eyes peeled, hoping to catch a glimpse of a geisha, but alas, they remained elusive. Still, the atmosphere of the district was enough to transport us to another time. The traditional wooden machiya houses, with their latticed windows and tiled roofs, exuded an old-world charm. Many of them now house exclusive restaurants and teahouses, adding to the area's allure.

For dinner, we chose Gion Nanba, another Michelin-starred establishment specializing in Kyo-Kaiseki cuisine. This restaurant was intentionally hidden away, reflecting Gion's tradition of cherishing privacy. The atmosphere was intimate, and the service impeccable. Chef Nanba's creations were a testament to his skill and artistry, each dish a delicate balance of flavors and textures. The seasonal ingredients were of the highest quality, and the presentation was exquisite. It was a truly memorable dining experience, and the perfect way to end our day in Gion.


Discover authentic kaiseki cuisine at Gion Nanba, where tradition meets taste in Kyoto's historic Gion district.

After dinner, as the night deepened, we decided to experience a bit of Kyoto's nightlife. We ventured into UNDERBAR-KYOTO, a cozy underground bar known for its good vibes and friendly staff. The neon light decor added a pop of color to the place, and the DJ was playing a mix of EDM and pop. It was a fun and lively atmosphere, and we enjoyed a few drinks before calling it a night. Elif, of course, was in her element, chatting with the bartenders and requesting songs. Hans and I enjoyed watching her, happy to see her embracing the local culture.


Dive into Kyoto's vibrant nightlife at UNDERBAR-KYOTO, where cocktails, darts, and music create an unforgettable evening.

As we walked back to our hotel, the streets of Kyoto were quiet and peaceful. The day had been long, but it was filled with unforgettable experiences. Gion had captivated us with its timeless beauty, its rich history, and its vibrant culture. It was a day that we would cherish for years to come.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Kodaiji Temple and Maruyama Park. I've heard that Maruyama Park is especially beautiful in the spring, with its cherry blossoms in full bloom. I'm looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery in this enchanting city. I'm also hoping we'll have better luck spotting a geisha tomorrow!

Before I drift off to sleep, I'm already anticipating tomorrow's adventure. Kyoto continues to surprise and delight us at every turn. It's a city that truly captures the essence of Japan, a place where tradition and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. And I'm grateful to be sharing this experience with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

I feel incredibly lucky to be experiencing Kyoto with Hans and Elif. It's moments like these that make all the hard work and planning worthwhile. As I reflect on our day, I'm reminded of a quote by the great Turkish poet Nazım Hikmet:

The most beautiful sea hasn't been sailed upon yet and the most beautiful kid hasn't grown up yet. The most beautiful days we haven't seen yet. And the most beautiful words I wanted to tell you I haven't said yet...

There is still much to discover, much to experience, and many more memories to make.

Goodnight from Kyoto!