Family Adventure in Historic Kyoto

Gion's Timeless Charm

Today, Kyoto revealed another layer of its captivating charm, drawing us into the heart of the Gion district. It’s a place where ancient traditions and modern life intertwine, creating an atmosphere that's both serene and vibrant. From the whispers of geishas to the tantalizing aromas of local cuisine, Gion awakened all our senses.

Our day began, as always, with the promise of a delicious breakfast. We ventured out to Kyoto cuisine Teramachi Yoshikura, a place Lena had found during her late night research. The restaurant exuded a warm, inviting atmosphere, and we were quickly seated. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and an assortment of small, flavorful side dishes. Mateo, surprisingly, enjoyed the miso soup, while Lena savored the pickled vegetables. The Obanzai All-You-Can-Eat option was a treat, with pumpkin, taro root, and hijiki seaweed adding a unique touch.


Discover authentic Kyoto cuisine at Teramachi Yoshikura – where traditional flavors meet modern creativity in an unforgettable dining experience.

With our bellies full and ready for the day, we set out to explore the famed Gion district. The crisp January air nipped at our cheeks, but the excitement of the day kept us warm. Our first stop was Hanamikoji Street, the heart of Gion and renowned for its preserved traditional wooden machiya houses. As we strolled along the narrow street, I couldn't help but imagine what life was like centuries ago, when geishas and samurai walked these very paths. The architecture was simply stunning, and the atmosphere was thick with history. It felt like stepping back in time, a world away from the bustling city just beyond.


Explore Hanamikoji Street, Kyoto's iconic alleyway steeped in tradition and culture, where history meets the beauty of Japanese artistry.

I had hoped to catch a glimpse of a geisha or maiko, but they seemed to be elusive today. Still, the charm of Hanamikoji Street was undeniable. Lena, ever the historian, pointed out the intricate details of the buildings, explaining their significance and purpose. Mateo, captivated by the colorful storefronts, insisted on taking photos with his little camera. Even though the winter trees were bare, there was still beauty in the simplicity of the scenery.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its temples and gardens, but in the way it seamlessly blends the past with the present.

After soaking in the atmosphere of Hanamikoji Street, we made our way to Yasaka Shrine, an iconic landmark at the eastern end of Gion. The shrine was bustling with activity, as locals and tourists alike came to pay their respects and offer prayers. The vibrant colors of the shrine stood out against the clear blue sky, creating a picturesque scene. We took our time exploring the various halls and temples within the shrine complex, admiring the intricate details and craftsmanship.


Discover the serene beauty of Yasaka Shrine, a historical Shinto sanctuary in Kyoto, renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural festivals.

I learned that Yasaka Shrine, originally founded in 876, is famous as a god warding off evil spirits. It's also closely tied to the Gion Festival, one of the biggest festivals in Japan. The shrine's seasonal events are deeply rooted in the lives of Kyotoites. Apparently, earlier in the month, the shrine hosted the Ebisu Festival, dedicated to the god of prosperity. Today, there was an archery competition, which was quite a sight to behold. Young men and women, dressed in traditional attire, showcased their skills with impressive accuracy.

Lena lit an incense stick and offered a prayer for our family's health and happiness. Mateo, mimicking his mother, bowed his head respectfully. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility in this sacred place. It was a reminder of the importance of tradition and the enduring power of faith.

By lunchtime, our stomachs were starting to rumble again. We decided to try something different and opted for Mezopotamia Kebab House, a small eatery near Nishiki Market that Lena had read rave reviews about. I know, I know, it seems odd to eat Turkish food in Japan, but we were intrigued by the positive feedback and decided to give it a try. And boy, were we glad we did! The kebabs were absolutely delicious, packed with flavor and cooked to perfection. Mateo devoured his chicken kebab in minutes, declaring it the best thing he had eaten so far on our trip. Lena and I shared a doner rice bowl, which was equally satisfying. It was a welcome change from the traditional Japanese cuisine we had been indulging in, and it proved that Kyoto has something to offer for every palate.


Experience authentic Middle Eastern cuisine at Mezopotamia Kebab House in Kyoto - where every bite tells a story.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to explore Nishiki Market. The market, also known as Kyoto's Kitchen, was a feast for the senses. Stalls overflowed with colorful produce, pickled vegetables, fresh seafood, and an array of other local delicacies. The market bustled with activity, as vendors hawked their wares and shoppers jostled for space. We sampled a variety of treats, from sweet mochi to savory takoyaki, and marveled at the unique and unusual ingredients on display. Mateo was particularly fascinated by the live seafood, pointing and giggling at the squirming creatures in the tanks.


Explore Nishiki Market, Kyoto's vibrant food market, where local delicacies meet rich cultural heritage in a delightful shopping experience.

I picked up some local spices and pickled vegetables to bring back home to Berlin, hoping to recreate some of the flavors we had experienced in Kyoto. Lena bought a beautiful hand-painted fan as a souvenir, while Mateo chose a small plush toy shaped like a sushi roll. It was a fun and memorable experience, and we left the market with our bags full and our hearts content.

As evening approached, we made our way back to Gion for our final culinary experience of the day. I had made reservations at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION, a place I had been dreaming about since we started planning this trip. I've always wanted to try authentic Kobe beef, and what better place to do it than in Kyoto's famed Gion district?


Experience unparalleled flavors at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION in Kyoto - a must-visit for steak lovers seeking authenticity.

The restaurant was elegant and refined, with a modern interior that contrasted nicely with the traditional surroundings. We were seated at a counter overlooking the teppanyaki grill, where a skilled chef prepared our meal with precision and artistry. We opted for the Kobe beef sirloin tasting menu, which included soup, salad, an assortment of grilled vegetables, and, of course, the star of the show: Kobe beef.

The chef began by grilling garlic chips, filling the air with their irresistible aroma. He then expertly cooked the vegetables, ensuring they were tender and flavorful. Finally, he placed the Kobe beef on the grill, searing it to perfection. The sizzling sound and the tantalizing aroma filled us with anticipation. Once the beef was cooked to medium-rare perfection, the chef sliced it into bite-sized pieces and served it to us with a flourish.

The first bite of Kobe beef was an experience I will never forget. The meat was incredibly tender, melting in my mouth with a rich, buttery flavor. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. Lena and I exchanged glances of pure delight, savoring every moment of this culinary masterpiece. Mateo, surprisingly, enjoyed the Kobe beef as well, devouring his portion with gusto.

I learned that Mouriya Gion exclusively serves beef from the descendants of the Tajima cattle lineage, raised in the same pristine environment as in the past. The restaurant has been in business for over 130 years, so they must be doing something right. It was indeed the epitome of the culinary world.

“The point is, I got more in Mouriya Gion. More food, more delicacy, more service and also more pricey. I enjoy every single bites of Kobe beef that they served, which always taste delicious.”

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll through Gion, soaking in the atmosphere of the illuminated streets. The lanterns cast a warm glow on the traditional buildings, creating a magical ambiance. We passed by several teahouses, imagining the geishas inside entertaining their guests with music, dance, and conversation. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.

As we walked back to our hotel, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible experiences we had had today. From the ancient shrines to the bustling markets to the exquisite cuisine, Gion had truly captured our hearts. It was a day filled with discovery, delight, and unforgettable memories. I was grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, and I looked forward to what tomorrow would bring.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Ryoan-ji, Ninna-ji Temple and Kokedera (Moss Temple). I'm particularly excited about Kokedera, as I've heard it's a truly magical place. We also plan to check out Bar K6 in the evening, a place Lena discovered and thought I might appreciate. I have to admit, I'm already looking forward to unwinding with a good drink after a day of exploring.

Until then, sayōnara from Kyoto!