A Family Adventure in Kyoto: Discovering Japan's Cultural Heart

Kyoto's Eastern Treasures: A Day of Serenity and Flavors

Today was a day of deep exploration into Kyoto's eastern district, a journey filled with spiritual reflection, natural beauty, and, of course, delightful culinary experiences. Mei-Ling, Lin, and I set out early, eager to immerse ourselves in the tranquility of the temples and gardens that this ancient city so generously offers. It was a day that resonated with the soul, reminding us of the simple joys of discovery and togetherness.

Our first stop was the magnificent Heian Shrine. Stepping through the giant torii gate felt like entering another world. The crisp winter air carried a sense of history as we walked through the spacious courtyard. The shrine, with its vibrant vermillion architecture, was a sight to behold. It's incredible to think that this shrine, relatively new compared to others in Kyoto, was built to commemorate the city's 1100th anniversary. We learned that it's dedicated to Emperor Kammu and Emperor Komei, the first and last emperors who reigned from Kyoto. The main buildings, a partial replica of the original Imperial Palace from the Heian Period, gave us a glimpse into the past.


Explore Heian Shrine in Kyoto for a serene experience of stunning gardens, rich history, and traditional Japanese architecture.

Behind the main buildings, we discovered the enchanting Shinen Garden. Even in January, the garden held a subtle charm. I could only imagine how stunning it must be in spring when the weeping cherry trees are in full bloom. Lin was particularly fascinated by the ponds and the koi fish swimming gracefully beneath the surface. It was a peaceful start to our day, a moment of serenity amidst the bustling city.

In the heart of Kyoto, amidst ancient temples and serene gardens, we found a harmony that resonated with our souls, a reminder of the beauty and tranquility that life has to offer.

For breakfast, we ventured to MUGHAL Indian Restaurant & Bar, a surprising choice in Kyoto, perhaps, but we were all craving something different. The aroma of spices filled the air as we entered, and the food was both comforting and flavorful. It was a delightful change of pace and a reminder that culinary adventures can be found in the most unexpected places.


Experience the vibrant flavors of India at Mughal Indian Restaurant & Bar in Kyoto – a haven for food lovers seeking authentic South Asian cuisine.

Next on our itinerary was Eikan-dō Temple, also known as Zenrinji Temple. This temple, belonging to the Jodo sect of Japanese Buddhism, is renowned for its autumn colors, but even in winter, it possessed a unique allure. As we walked through the wooden corridors connecting the various buildings, I felt a sense of connection to the past. The temple's history dates back to the Heian Period, when a court noble donated his villa to a priest, who then converted it into a temple. One of the most fascinating aspects of Eikan-dō is the unusual statue of the Amida Buddha with his head turned sidewards. Legend has it that the statue turned its head to look back at the priest Eikan and said, Yokan, you are slow. It's a reminder to be present and mindful in our daily lives.


Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Eikan-dō Temple, a must-visit Buddhist sanctuary in Kyoto, Japan, surrounded by stunning gardens.

After Eikan-dō, we made our way to Nanzen-ji Temple, one of the most important Zen temples in Japan. The sheer size of the temple grounds was impressive. Emperor Kameyama established it in 1291 on the site of his previous detached palace. The massive Sanmon entrance gate loomed before us, a testament to the temple's rich history. We also came across the rather unexpected sight of a large brick aqueduct, built during the Meiji Period as part of a canal system to carry water between Kyoto and Lake Biwa. It was a fascinating blend of ancient and modern, a reminder of Kyoto's ability to adapt and evolve while preserving its cultural heritage.


Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Nanzen-ji Temple, a stunning Buddhist sanctuary nestled in the heart of Kyoto's natural landscape.

Lunch was a truly special experience at Kikunoi Roan, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its exquisite Kaiseki cuisine. From the moment we stepped inside, we were enveloped in an atmosphere of elegance and refinement. The presentation of each dish was a work of art, and the flavors were both delicate and complex. It was a culinary journey that celebrated the seasons and the artistry of Japanese cuisine. I was particularly impressed by the chef's use of local ingredients and his attention to detail. Mei-Ling, who appreciates fine dining, was in her element, savoring every bite and admiring the craftsmanship. It was an expensive meal, but worth it.


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

Our final temple visit of the day was to Nanzen-ji. This Zen Buddhist temple, once the retirement villa of Emperor Kameyama, exudes a palpable sense of history. The towering Sanmon gate, rebuilt in 1628, stands as a testament to the temple's resilience through centuries of fires and wars. As we explored the grounds, we stumbled upon the Suirokaku Aqueduct, a surprising Roman-style structure built in the Meiji Era to carry water from Lake Biwa. It was an unexpected juxtaposition of cultures, highlighting Kyoto's unique blend of tradition and modernity.

We ended our day with a leisurely stroll through Maruyama Park. Though it's winter, the park still offered a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. I imagine it is stunning in spring, with cherry blossoms everywhere. Even now, the bare trees had a stark beauty, and the peaceful atmosphere was a welcome respite. Lin enjoyed running around the open spaces, while Mei-Ling and I took in the scenery. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.


Experience the natural beauty of Maruyama Park in Kyoto, a serene oasis filled with cherry blossoms and cultural heritage.

For dinner, we chose Oryori Menami, a restaurant specializing in Obanzai, traditional Kyoto home-style cooking. It was a cozy and welcoming place, and the food was simple yet delicious. The Obanzai Assortment was a highlight, a beautifully presented selection of daily specials showcasing a range of Kyoto flavors. It was a comforting end to a day filled with exploration and discovery. I really enjoyed the Kyoto vegetables.


Experience authentic Obanzai cuisine in Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward at Oryori Menami - where tradition meets taste.

Before heading back to our hotel, we made a quick stop at Daimaru Kyoto Store. While we didn't plan on doing any serious shopping, we couldn't resist browsing the various floors. Mei-Ling was particularly interested in the Japanese cosmetics, while Lin was drawn to the colorful displays of sweets and snacks. I picked up a few souvenirs for friends back home, a small reminder of our time in Kyoto. It was a fun and lively way to experience a bit of modern Kyoto.


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

As we walked back to the Travelodge Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. Kyoto had once again captivated us with its beauty, history, and culinary delights. Tomorrow is our last day in Kyoto, and we plan to make the most of it. We'll be visiting the Kyoto Railway Museum, the Kyoto International Manga Museum, and Kyoto Tower, a mix of modern and traditional attractions. It's hard to believe our family adventure is coming to an end. But I am looking forward to sharing more of our experiences with you all.


Experience the vibrant culture of Kyoto at Travelodge Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi—your ideal base for exploring historic sites, shopping, and dining.

“The beauty of Kyoto lies not only in its temples and gardens but also in the warmth and hospitality of its people.”