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

Whispers of Winter in Kyoto

Today was a day of serene beauty and delightful discoveries as we ventured into the heart of Kyoto. The crisp winter air added a special touch to our exploration, making every sight and taste even more memorable. Join me as I recount our journey through Arashiyama's bamboo forest, the tranquil Tenryu-ji Temple, the bustling Nishiki Market, and the unique flavors we encountered along the way.

Our day began with an early start, fueled by anticipation and a hearty breakfast at Goichi Pizza. I know, pizza in Japan sounds a bit odd, but Mei-Ling had read rave reviews, and Lin was definitely up for it. Surprisingly, it was a hit! The pizza was baked in a stone oven, giving it a delightfully chewy crust. It was a great way to start a day filled with traditional Japanese experiences. I even managed to practice my Japanese with the friendly staff. It's always a good feeling when I can use what I've learned, even if it's just to order a pizza.

After breakfast, we headed to Arashiyama. The train ride itself was scenic, offering glimpses of the surrounding mountains dusted with snow. Arriving in Arashiyama, we were immediately struck by the tranquility of the area. The air was crisp, and the sunlight filtering through the trees created a magical ambiance. Even in winter, Arashiyama holds a special charm, a quiet dignity that’s unmatched by any other season. I made sure to dress warmly in layers, as I knew we'd be spending a good amount of time outdoors. I even brought along a thermos of hot Taiwanese tea to keep us warm.

Our first stop was the famed Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Walking through the towering bamboo stalks felt like entering another world. The green bamboo stood out against the occasional patches of white snow, accentuating its beauty even more. The crowds were thinner than I expected, perhaps due to the winter chill, which allowed us to fully enjoy the gentle rustling of the bamboo in the breeze. Lin was fascinated by the height of the bamboo, craning her neck to see the tops of the stalks. I took the opportunity to teach her about the importance of bamboo in East Asian culture, from its use in construction to its symbolism of resilience and flexibility. It was a perfect moment of cultural exchange, right there in the heart of the grove.


Discover the serene beauty of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, a tranquil escape filled with towering bamboo groves and enchanting pathways.

In the depth of winter, I finally learned that there was in me an invincible summer.

Next, we visited Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple's Sogenchi Garden was particularly enchanting in winter. The traditional Japanese dry landscape garden was transformed into a serene snow-covered masterpiece. I was captivated by the minimalist beauty of the garden, the delicate layer of snow enhancing the raked patterns that symbolize the flow of water. The Cloud Dragon painting on the ceiling of the Dharma Hall was also impressive, its eyes seemingly following us as we moved around the room. I learned that this effect, known as *happo-nirami*, symbolizes the all-seeing eyes with which the dragon protects Buddhism. It’s moments like these that make me appreciate the depth and complexity of Japanese culture.


Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. A cultural gem for every traveler.

For lunch, we decided to try Arash's Kitchen, a local restaurant serving Persian and Indian cuisine. It was a welcome change of pace after a morning of traditional Japanese sights. The aroma of spices filled the air as we entered, and the owner, Arash, greeted us with a warm smile. We ordered a variety of dishes, including kebabs, biryani, and naan bread. The food was flavorful and satisfying, and the portions were generous. It was fascinating to find such authentic Persian flavors in the middle of Kyoto, a testament to the city's diverse culinary scene. Lin especially enjoyed the saffron ice cream, declaring it the best dessert she had ever tasted.


Experience authentic Asian cuisine at Arash's Kitchen in Kyoto—a culinary delight for every traveler seeking unique flavors.

After lunch, we made our way to Nishiki Market, also known as Kyoto's Kitchen. The market was a vibrant and bustling scene, a stark contrast to the tranquility of Arashiyama. The narrow street was lined with stalls selling everything from fresh seafood and pickled vegetables to sweets and spices. The market has a history of around 400 years, evolving from a fish wholesale market to a shopping street offering various food items. The energy of the market was infectious, and we enjoyed sampling different foods and browsing the unique products. I bought some *tsukemono* (Japanese pickles) to bring back to Kelowna, hoping to recreate some of the flavors of Kyoto at home. Mei-Ling picked up some *wagashi* (Japanese sweets) for Lin, who has a sweet tooth just like her mother.


Explore Kyoto's Nishiki Market, the vibrant hub of local culture and cuisine, offering a delightful array of traditional foods and unique souvenirs.

Before heading back to our hotel, we stopped by the Kyoto Station ASTY Kyoto Kyoani Goods Store. I had read about this pop-up shop online, and as a fan of Japanese animation, I was eager to check it out. The store was filled with merchandise from various Kyoto Animation series, including *Haruhi Suzumiya*, *K-ON!*, and *Violet Evergarden*. It was a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminding me of the many hours I spent watching anime as a student. I picked up a few souvenirs for myself and Lin, who is also starting to develop an interest in anime. I was a pop-up shop originally opened, but was extended to August 31, 2024 due to popular demand.


Explore Kyoto Station ASTY Kyoto Kyoani Goods Store for exclusive anime merchandise and a taste of Japan's vibrant pop culture.

For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a special meal at Gion Mikaku, a long-established wagyu specialty restaurant. The restaurant is located along the Shirakawa River, offering breathtaking views of the surroundings. We opted for the teppanyaki course, which allowed us to watch the skilled chefs prepare our meal right in front of us. The wagyu beef was of the highest quality, tender and juicy, with a rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavor. It was an unforgettable culinary experience, a perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery. The calm and traditional Japanese atmosphere in the store creates a sophisticated space that offers a high-quality experience.


Discover Gion Mikaku, where exceptional steak meets authentic Japanese culture in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district.

As we made our way back to the Travelodge Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi, I reflected on the day's adventures. From the serene beauty of Arashiyama to the vibrant energy of Nishiki Market, Kyoto had once again captivated us with its blend of tradition and modernity. It's these contrasts that make Kyoto such a fascinating and rewarding destination. And knowing that tomorrow we'll be visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha with its thousands of vermilion torii gates, the Toei Kyoto Studio Park, Tōfuku-ji Temple, and Kodaiji Temple, just makes me excited for the next day.


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

Tomorrow, we'll continue our exploration of Kyoto, venturing to new temples, gardens, and culinary hotspots. I'm particularly excited about visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha, with its thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the mountainside. I've seen countless photos of this iconic landmark, and I can't wait to experience it in person. We are also planning to visit the Toei Kyoto Studio Park, a film studio and theme park where visitors can experience the world of Japanese cinema. It should be a fun and interactive experience for the whole family.

Before I turn in for the night, I must remember to buy a travel adapter and sunscreen tomorrow. I knew I forgot something on my packing list. It is just a good thing that there are a lot of convenience stores around our hotel. I'm looking forward to sharing more of our Kyoto adventures with you soon. Until then, *oyasumi nasai* (good night)!