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

A Day of Modern Wonders

Our last day in Kyoto was a delightful blend of modern attractions, a departure from the serene temples and gardens we'd explored earlier in the week. While I cherish the historical sites, it was refreshing to dive into different facets of Japanese culture and innovation with my family. Mei-Ling and Lin were just as excited, ready to soak in as much as possible before our journey back to Kelowna.

We started our day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Kinmata. The restaurant was a serene escape from the bustling city. The delicate flavors and artful presentation of each dish were a testament to Kyoto's culinary heritage. I especially enjoyed the perfectly brewed green tea, a comforting ritual that always brings me back to my roots in Taiwan. It was a quiet, reflective start, setting a gentle pace for our final day of exploration. I remember my grandmother always emphasizing the importance of a good breakfast to fuel the day, and Kinmata certainly provided that.


Experience authentic Obanzai cuisine at Kinmata, where tradition meets flavor in the heart of Kyoto.

The best journeys, like the best stories, often save the most captivating chapters for the very end.

Next on our itinerary was the Kyoto Railway Museum. As a family, we've always been fascinated by trains, and this museum was a dream come true. Lin was particularly excited, her eyes wide with wonder as we approached the massive locomotives. The museum is incredibly well-maintained, showcasing Japan's rich railway history from steam engines to the sleek Shinkansen bullet trains. I was impressed by the interactive exhibits that allowed us to learn about the mechanics and engineering behind these marvels of transportation.


Discover the rich history of railways at the Kyoto Railway Museum, a family-friendly attraction in the heart of Kyoto showcasing trains and interactive exhibits.

Lin, ever the curious one, peppered me with questions about how the trains worked, and I did my best to explain, drawing on my (admittedly limited) knowledge of engineering. Mei-Ling, surprisingly, was just as engrossed, reading every informational plaque and marveling at the precision of the designs. We even got to climb aboard some of the trains, imagining what it must have been like to travel across Japan in different eras. The highlight for Lin was the train simulator, where she got to experience being a train conductor for a few minutes. Her beaming face was priceless.

After immersing ourselves in railway history, we headed to the Kyoto International Manga Museum. Housed in a former elementary school, the museum was a vibrant celebration of manga culture. With its extensive collection of manga from various eras and genres, it was a paradise for comic book enthusiasts. Lin, who is a budding artist herself, was thrilled to see the original artwork and learn about the history of manga. Mei-Ling and I enjoyed browsing through the international section, discovering manga in English and other languages.


Explore the rich world of manga at the Kyoto International Manga Museum, a cultural haven for enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

The museum's atmosphere was lively and welcoming, with visitors of all ages engrossed in reading manga on the comfortable benches and in the outdoor courtyard. We spent hours exploring the different exhibits, from the history of manga to the works of famous manga artists. Lin even participated in a manga drawing workshop, where she learned some basic techniques from a professional artist. She proudly showed off her creation, a cute manga character with big, sparkling eyes. I felt a sense of pride watching her express her creativity and passion for art.

For lunch, we ventured to Saishuan Shiraki, a small izakaya known for its authentic Kyoto cuisine. The cozy atmosphere and friendly owner made us feel right at home. We opted for the set menu, which featured a variety of traditional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The owner took the time to explain each dish to us, sharing stories about the ingredients and the history behind the recipes. It was a truly immersive culinary experience.


Discover the authentic flavors of Japan at Saishuan Shiraki - a premier izakaya experience in the heart of Kyoto.

I particularly enjoyed the delicate tofu dish, which was silky smooth and subtly flavored. Mei-Ling raved about the grilled fish, which was perfectly cooked and seasoned. Lin, surprisingly, enjoyed the pickled vegetables, a testament to her growing appreciation for Japanese cuisine. The meal was a delightful blend of flavors and textures, a perfect representation of Kyoto's culinary artistry. It reminded me of the simple yet profound dishes my mother used to make, each ingredient carefully chosen and prepared with love.

Our final stop for the day was Kyoto Tower, the tallest structure in the city. As we ascended to the observation deck, we were treated to panoramic views of Kyoto's sprawling cityscape. From 100 meters above ground, we could see the iconic temples and shrines we had visited earlier in the week, as well as the modern buildings and bustling streets that define Kyoto's contemporary identity. The telescopes on the observation deck allowed us to zoom in on specific landmarks, providing a unique perspective on the city's rich history and culture.


Discover breathtaking views and unique souvenirs at Nidec Kyoto Tower, the iconic landmark that embodies Kyoto's rich cultural heritage.

Lin was fascinated by the miniature-like view of the city below, pointing out the different places we had visited. Mei-Ling and I enjoyed identifying the various temples and shrines, reminiscing about our experiences at each site. As the sun began to set, the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, casting a warm glow over the city. It was a breathtaking sight, a perfect ending to our Kyoto adventure. Standing there, with my family by my side, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share this incredible experience with them.

Before dinner, we made a quick stop at Maiko Antiques Kyoto. This quirky shop was a treasure trove of vintage Japanese toys, retro-futuristic models, and eclectic antiques. The owner, dressed in a bright Hawaiian shirt, greeted us with a warm smile and enthusiastically showed us around. Lin was captivated by the vintage toys, while Mei-Ling and I admired the intricate craftsmanship of the antiques. It was a fun and whimsical experience, a perfect way to add a touch of eccentricity to our day.


Explore the rich heritage of Japan at Maiko Antiques Kyoto, where timeless treasures await in a charming antique store setting.

For our farewell dinner, we decided to indulge in French cuisine at French Dining Top of Kyoto. Located on the 14th floor of the Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto, this revolving restaurant offered stunning 360-degree views of the city. The elegant ambiance and impeccable service created a memorable dining experience. We savored the classic French dishes, each expertly prepared and beautifully presented. The sommelier recommended a delightful wine pairing that perfectly complemented our meal. It was a sophisticated and refined ending to our culinary journey in Kyoto.


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

As the restaurant slowly rotated, we took in the mesmerizing views of Kyoto's illuminated skyline. The twinkling lights of the city created a magical atmosphere, a fitting farewell to this enchanting place. Over dinner, we shared our favorite memories from the trip, reminiscing about the temples, gardens, and cultural experiences that had touched our hearts. I felt a sense of contentment and fulfillment, knowing that we had created lasting memories as a family.

With our hearts full of cherished memories and our minds enriched by new experiences, we prepared for our departure from Kyoto. This trip had been more than just a vacation; it had been a journey of discovery, connection, and appreciation for a culture that is both ancient and modern. As we packed our bags, I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share this incredible adventure with my family. Kyoto had captured our hearts, and we knew that we would carry its spirit with us wherever we went.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Kelowna, filled with stories and memories to last a lifetime. I'm already looking forward to sharing our experiences with friends and family, and perhaps inspiring them to embark on their own cultural adventures. Until next time, Kyoto, farewell and thank you for the memories.