Family Adventure in Historic Kyoto

Auspicious Beginnings in Kyoto

Our Kyoto adventure began today, and what a start it has been! From the shimmering Kinkaku-ji to the historical depths of Nijo Castle, every moment felt like stepping into a postcard. The blend of ancient history and modern life here is captivating, and I'm already eager to share every detail. Join me as I recount our first day exploring this mesmerizing city.

The journey from Berlin to Kyoto was long but comfortable. Lena, Mateo, and I arrived in Osaka, hopped on a train, and were soon pulling into Kyoto Station. The convenience of the train travel, coupled with the scenic views, made the trip feel like part of the adventure. After settling into the Oakwood Hotel Oike Kyoto, we were ready to dive into our itinerary.


Discover the charm of Kyoto at Oakwood Hotel Oike, where comfort meets convenience in the heart of the city, perfect for your next adventure.

Our first stop was Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. As we approached, the sight of the shimmering temple reflecting on the water was breathtaking. Even in the January chill, the gardens were meticulously maintained, and the golden structure stood out brilliantly against the winter sky. Mateo was especially fascinated, asking a flurry of questions about why it was gold and who built it. I tried my best to explain the history and significance of the temple, making it a fun learning experience for him.


Explore Kinkaku-ji, the breathtaking Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, where history and nature blend beautifully in a tranquil setting.

To travel is to take a journey into yourself.

Exploring new places allows us to reflect on our own lives and values, making every trip a voyage of self-discovery.

After soaking in the beauty of Kinkaku-ji, we headed to the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The serene atmosphere of the palace grounds offered a stark contrast to the bustling city outside. We strolled through the gardens, admiring the traditional architecture and imagining the emperors who once resided here. Lena, with her librarian's love for history, was in her element, reading aloud from our travel guidebook and sharing interesting facts about the palace.


Explore the historical elegance and natural beauty of Kyoto Imperial Palace, a cultural landmark reflecting Japan's royal history.

Next on our list was Nijo Castle, a place that echoed with the power and intrigue of the Tokugawa shogunate. The intricate details of the castle's architecture and the famous 'nightingale floors' were fascinating. Walking through the corridors, we could almost hear the sounds of the past, the whispers of samurai and the echoes of historical events.


Experience the grandeur of Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history, architecture, and nature intertwine in Kyoto's cultural heart.

Before our historical explorations, we started our day with a hearty breakfast at Katsukura - Kyoto Porta. This restaurant is known for its delicious tonkatsu. Mateo enjoyed his meal so much. Lena and I savored every bite, appreciating the quality and care that went into preparing the meal. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of sightseeing.


Discover authentic Tonkatsu at Katsukura - a must-visit Japanese restaurant in Kyoto offering delightful flavors in a modern setting.

For lunch, we chose Hafuu, a restaurant renowned for its exquisite meat dishes. The restaurant's calm and modern Japanese interior provided a warm atmosphere. My Argentinian chef's heart was happy to see the wagyu beef. The beef cutlet sandwich was a hit with all of us. The tender meat and flavorful sauces were a testament to the chef's skill.


Discover Hafuu in Kyoto: where premium Japanese beef meets culinary excellence in an elegant setting.

In the late afternoon, we took some time to shop at Daimaru Kyoto Store. This department store had a wide array of goods. Lena was in search of some unique souvenirs. Mateo was excited about the prospect of finding a new toy. I was intrigued by the food section, eager to sample some local delicacies. We spent a pleasant hour exploring the store, finding a few treasures to take home with us.


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

As the day drew to a close, we indulged in a memorable dinner at Kikunoi Roan. This restaurant offered a modern take on classic kaiseki cuisine. The presentation was artistic, and the flavors were bold and innovative. It was a culinary experience that we will not soon forget. The staff were attentive and the atmosphere was serene, making it a perfect end to our first day in Kyoto.


Experience the art of kaiseki dining at Kikunoi Roan in Kyoto - where seasonal flavors meet exquisite presentation.

One of the highlights of the day was discovering the Toka Ebisu Festival at the Kyoto Ebisu Shrine. The festival was in full swing, with locals and tourists alike gathering to pray for prosperity and good fortune. The lively atmosphere, the colorful stalls, and the sounds of traditional music created a vibrant and festive experience. We bought some lucky charms and enjoyed the energy of the crowd, feeling grateful for the opportunity to witness such a unique cultural event.

Of course, no trip is without its little mishaps. I realized I had forgotten to pack my Japanese phrasebook. While many people in Kyoto speak English, I was hoping to immerse myself in the language a bit more. I also wished I had brought extra memory cards for my camera, as I found myself constantly running out of space with all the photos I was taking.

Despite these minor setbacks, our first day in Kyoto was a resounding success. We explored ancient temples, strolled through serene gardens, savored exquisite cuisine, and immersed ourselves in local culture. As I write this, Mateo is already fast asleep, dreaming of golden temples and samurai castles. Lena is reading about our next destination, Arashiyama, where we plan to visit the bamboo forest and Tenryu-ji Temple tomorrow. As for me, I am filled with anticipation for what tomorrow will bring. Kyoto has already captured our hearts, and I know that the days ahead will be filled with even more unforgettable memories.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and the serene Tenryu-ji Temple. I've heard the bamboo forest is a truly magical place, and I can't wait to capture its beauty through my lens. We'll also be dining at Arash's Kitchen for lunch and THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO for dinner, both of which I've read rave reviews about. Plus, we'll be stopping by the Kyoto Crafts Store to pick up some unique souvenirs. It promises to be another day filled with adventure and discovery.

Until then, sayōnara from Kyoto!