Exploring the Cultural Wonders of Kyoto with Family

Finding Serenity in Kyoto

Today was a day of gentle exploration, a chance to breathe in the quieter corners of Kyoto and soak up its timeless charm. It’s amazing how a change of pace can offer a fresh perspective, and today was all about embracing that. We traded the bustling city streets for serene pathways and lush gardens, immersing ourselves in the cultural heart of Japan. It was a day filled with small discoveries and quiet moments, the kind that linger in your memory long after you’ve left.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Hanasaki. The traditional Japanese breakfast set us up perfectly for a day of exploration. I opted for the Yuba and Namafu, keen to try local delicacies. Lena enjoyed a traditional Japanese breakfast with grilled fish, rice, and miso soup. It’s always a treat to start the day with such authentic flavors, and it gave us a real sense of connection to Kyoto's culinary heritage.

A Stroll Along the Philosopher's Path

After breakfast, we set off for the Philosopher's Path. The weather in Kyoto this May has been wonderfully mild, perfect for a leisurely walk. The Philosopher's Path is a stone path that follows a canal lined with cherry trees, though the cherry blossoms are now long gone, the path retained its tranquil beauty. It's named after Nishida Kitaro, a famous philosopher who used to meditate while walking this route. The gentle sound of the water flowing alongside the path created a soothing atmosphere, encouraging reflection and calm. I couldn't help but think about the contrast between this peaceful scene and the frenetic energy of Berlin. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love to travel, to find these pockets of serenity amidst the chaos of everyday life.

The beauty of the Philosopher's Path lies not just in its scenery, but in the quiet contemplation it inspires.

Lena and I walked hand in hand, enjoying the peaceful ambiance. We passed several small temples and shrines along the way, each with its own unique charm. It was a welcome escape from the busier tourist spots, allowing us to appreciate the simple beauty of nature and the tranquility of the surroundings.


Explore the Philosopher's Path, a serene journey through nature and philosophy in Kyoto, lined with cherry blossoms and historic temples.

Kyoto Botanical Gardens: A Floral Paradise

Our next stop was the Kyoto Botanical Gardens. Spanning over 240,000 square meters, the gardens showcase an impressive collection of flora. Although we missed the peak of the cherry blossoms, the gardens were still bursting with color, with azaleas and rhododendrons in full bloom. We spent hours wandering through the various themed gardens, from the traditional Japanese garden to the vibrant Western-style flowerbeds. I was particularly impressed by the conservatory, a lush sanctuary filled with exotic plants and flowers.

We found a lovely spot near a pond and sat down to enjoy a picnic lunch, which we had picked up from a local bakery. Surrounded by the beauty of the gardens, it was a perfect moment of peace and contentment. I even managed to snap some photos, hoping to capture the essence of this floral paradise. I am hoping to catch the Craft Marche which will be held from the 3rd to 5th of May 2025 next year, which I read is a fantastic market celebrating handmade and handcrafted goods. Lena, with her graphic designer's eye, was particularly taken with the intricate arrangements and the vibrant colours.


Explore the Kyoto Botanical Gardens, a tranquil oasis showcasing diverse flora and stunning landscapes in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.

A Culinary Interlude: Lunch at Jiki Miyazawa

For lunch, we had made a reservation at Jiki Miyazawa, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its refined *kaiseki* cuisine. This was a culinary experience I had been eagerly anticipating. The restaurant is small and intimate, with only ten counter seats, allowing for a close interaction with the chef. We opted for the 5,000 JPY multi-course set menu, and each dish was a work of art, both visually and gastronomically. The chef, Takamoto Izumi, was incredibly skilled and passionate about his craft. It was fascinating to watch him prepare each dish with such precision and care.

The *sakizuke*, grilled octopus served with watermelon and strawberry granita, was a delightful combination of contrasting temperatures and textures. The *suimono* course, a clear broth with seasonal vegetables, was light and refreshing. But the highlight of the meal was Chef Miyazawa's signature *yaki-gomadōfu*, a grilled sesame tofu that has taken him three years to perfect. The tofu was incredibly rich and creamy, with a delicate sesame flavour that lingered on the palate. Lena was equally impressed, declaring it one of the best meals she had ever had.


Indulge in an authentic Kaiseki dining experience at Jiki Miyazawa, where seasonal flavors meet exquisite presentation in the heart of Kyoto.

An Evening of Traditional Arts at Gion Corner

In the evening, we headed to Gion Corner, a theater in the heart of Kyoto's geisha district. Gion Corner offers a unique opportunity to experience seven traditional Japanese performing arts in one show. The program includes *kyomai* dance, *chanoyu* (tea ceremony), *ikebana* (flower arrangement), *koto* music, *bugaku* dance, *kyogen* comedy, and *bunraku* puppet theater. The performances were captivating, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Japan. The *kyomai* dance, performed by *maiko* (apprentice geisha), was particularly enchanting, with its graceful movements and beautiful costumes. Gion Corner is located inside Yasaka Hall on the north side of Gion's Kaburenjo Hall, where Maiko (apprentice Geisha) and Geiko (Geisha) give presentations.

The show lasted about an hour, and it was a perfect introduction to the diverse world of Japanese performing arts. It’s amazing to see the dedication and artistry that goes into each of these traditional forms. It’s experiences like these that make traveling so rewarding, allowing you to connect with a culture on a deeper level. The show is designed for travellers who are interested in the time-honored performing arts of Japan. Gion Corner is located in Gion Kobu, the largest of the five traditional *kagai* entertainment districts of Kyoto.


Discover the enchanting world of traditional Japanese arts at Gion Corner in Kyoto, a cultural hub showcasing geisha performances and more.

Kyoto Crafts Store

Before dinner, we took a stroll through Kyoto and found ourselves drawn into a Kyoto Crafts Store. I was on the hunt for a special souvenir to bring back to Berlin, something that would capture the essence of our time in Kyoto. The store was a treasure trove of traditional Japanese crafts, from delicate lacquerware to intricate woodblock prints. I was particularly drawn to the *kyo-zogan*, a type of damascene work that involves inlaying gold and silver into iron. The craftsmanship was exquisite, and I ended up purchasing a beautiful necklace for Lena, a small token of our time in Kyoto.


Explore the essence of Kyoto's artistry at the Kyoto Crafts Store, where traditional handicrafts meet contemporary charm.

Dinner at Kikunoi Roan: A Culinary Masterpiece

To cap off our day, we enjoyed a memorable dinner at Kikunoi Roan, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant that specializes in *kaiseki* cuisine. It was a truly unforgettable experience. The restaurant itself is an oasis of calm, with a serene atmosphere and impeccable service. The staff were attentive and knowledgeable, guiding us through each course with grace and expertise. We opted for one of the tasting menus, eager to sample the chef's creations. I'd read that the differences in the price of the tasting menus reflects the quality of the ingredients, and that the number of dishes is almost the same.

Each dish was a culinary masterpiece, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients and the chef's innovative techniques. The flavors were subtle yet complex, and the presentation was exquisite. The sashimi, made with locally sourced fish, was incredibly fresh and tender. The grilled Wagyu beef, cooked to perfection, was melt-in-your-mouth delicious. And the dessert, a delicate green tea mousse, was the perfect ending to a perfect meal. It’s moments like these that make you appreciate the art of cooking, the way a chef can transform simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary. It was the perfect way to end a day of tranquility and tradition.


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

As we walked back to our hotel, the city was quiet and peaceful. The events of the day replayed in my mind, a tapestry of serene pathways, lush gardens, captivating performances, and culinary delights. Kyoto has a way of slowing you down, of encouraging you to appreciate the simple things in life. And as I drifted off to sleep, I knew that this was a day I would cherish for a long time to come.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to visit the Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama and the Kyoto Tower, and I’m already looking forward to more adventures in this captivating city. I am hoping to see a panoramic view of the city from the Kyoto Tower, and I know Lena is especially excited about the monkey park. Before that, we will stop by AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO for breakfast, before heading to Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store for lunch. We are also planning to have dinner at THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO, and to cap the night off, enjoy a drink at Bar Fishbowl. It promises to be another day filled with unforgettable experiences. Until then, *yasasiku* (穏やかに).