Family Adventure in Historic Kyoto

A Day of Reflection and Rock 'n' Roll

As our Kyoto adventure draws to a close, I wanted to soak in every last bit of this magical city. Today was a blend of peaceful contemplation, culinary delights, and a final burst of energy before heading back to Zurich. It’s hard to believe our family adventure is almost over, but I’m determined to make these last hours count.

Our day began with a hearty Japanese breakfast at Nishikawa. After that we took a train to Uji to visit Byodoin Temple. I’d read so much about the Phoenix Hall, and seeing it in person was breathtaking. The temple was initially built in 998 as a countryside retreat villa, and later converted to a temple in 1052. The architecture really reflects the Pure Land Buddhist style, and it was so interesting to learn about its history and significance. Wei was fascinated by the phoenix statues on the roof, and Mei loved the serene atmosphere of the gardens. We took a short guided tour of the Phoenix Hall, which houses a statue of the Amida Buddha. The hall is also featured on the back of the Japanese ten yen coin. It's amazing that the Phoenix Hall has survived fires and calamities over the centuries, making it one of the few original wooden structures from the Heian Period.


Explore Byodoin Temple in Uji, Kyoto - a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture, serene gardens, and rich cultural heritage.

The best journey always takes us home, even if that home is just a feeling we carry in our hearts.

After Byodoin, we returned to Kyoto for a late lunch at Komefuku. I had heard great things about their tempura, and it did not disappoint. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I tried the large tempura prawn donburi, which was a signature dish. Mei enjoyed a lunch set featuring chef's choice nigiri sushi and tempura. Wei, of course, loved the prawns. It was the perfect fuel for our afternoon adventure.

With our bellies full, we headed to Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a vast green space in the heart of the city. The garden was established after the capital was moved to Tokyo, and it's now a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. We wandered through the peaceful paths, admiring the meticulously manicured trees and serene ponds. Wei enjoyed running around the open spaces, while Mei and I took in the scenery. The garden was once the residences of court nobles, and converted into a park at the wish of Emperor Meiji. It's hard to imagine such a tranquil place existing in the middle of a bustling city.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a historic park offering stunning landscapes and a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.

As evening approached, we decided to indulge in a final, memorable dinner at French Dining Top of Kyoto, located in the Rihga Royal Hotel. This revolving restaurant offered stunning panoramic views of the city. The stunning 360-degree scenery harmonizes beautifully with the elegant atmosphere. The interior is adorned with hand-printed traditional Japanese paper, creating a unique and elegant atmosphere. Mei and I opted for the tasting menu, which featured a delightful array of French dishes with a Japanese twist. Wei was thrilled with his steak, and we all enjoyed the slowly rotating view of Kyoto's skyline. It was the perfect way to reflect on our incredible journey.


Discover the exquisite flavors of French cuisine at French Dining Top of Kyoto – where culinary artistry meets stunning views.

But the night wasn't over yet! I couldn't resist a final stop at Rocking Bar ING, a cozy little spot recommended by a friend. The owner, Hako, is a true music fanatic, and the bar is filled with rock memorabilia. I requested some classic rock tunes, and we spent a couple of hours enjoying the music and chatting with the friendly locals. It was a fun, energetic way to end our Kyoto adventure.


Discover Rocking Bar ING in Kyoto, where the spirit of rock music comes alive amidst an eclectic atmosphere and vibrant nightlife.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel a little sad that our trip is coming to an end. Kyoto has captured my heart with its beauty, history, and culture. But I also feel grateful for the memories we've made as a family. From the vibrant temples to the serene gardens, from the delicious food to the lively nightlife, Kyoto has something for everyone. And as much as I love my life in Zurich, I know I'll always cherish this family adventure in historic Kyoto.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Zurich. There is no formal itinerary for tomorrow, as it is simply the end of our trip. It's time to pack our bags, say goodbye to this enchanting city, and prepare for the familiar comforts of home. But I know that a part of me will always remain in Kyoto, dreaming of the day I can return.

Thank you for following along on our journey. I hope you've enjoyed reading about our adventures as much as we've enjoyed living them. Until next time, happy travels!

I know that Mei, Wei and I will sleep well tonight, filled with dreams of temples, gardens, and rock 'n' roll. I am already looking forward to planning our next family adventure!

I am also grateful that I did not forget any of the TripEssentials in the list, even though I did forget to pack the raincoat and travel adapter. I will make sure to bring those next time!

Final Thoughts on Kyoto

Kyoto is more than just a city; it's an experience. It's a place where ancient traditions meet modern life, where serene beauty exists alongside bustling energy. As we prepare to leave, I carry with me a sense of peace, inspiration, and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of Japanese culture. I hope our journey has inspired you to explore this incredible city for yourself. Until next time, sayōnara!

Memorable Moments

One of the most memorable moments of the day was seeing Wei's face light up as he explored the gardens of Byodoin Temple. His boundless energy and curiosity reminded me of the simple joys of travel. Another highlight was the exquisite French cuisine at Top of Kyoto, where we shared laughter and stories against the backdrop of the city's glittering skyline. And of course, the lively atmosphere of Rocking Bar ING, where we danced and sang along to our favorite tunes, created a perfect ending to our Kyoto adventure.

Kyoto's Charm

Kyoto's charm lies in its ability to transport you to another time. From the ancient temples to the traditional tea houses, every corner of the city whispers stories of the past. It's a place where you can lose yourself in the beauty of nature, find solace in the serenity of a Zen garden, and connect with the warmth and hospitality of the local people. As we bid farewell to Kyoto, I know that its magic will stay with us forever.