Exploring the Cultural Wonders of Kyoto with Family

Kyoto Day One: A Whirlwind of Vermilion and Tradition

After months of planning, Lena and I, along with the kids, finally touched down in Osaka, ready to dive into the heart of Japan. The train ride to Kyoto was smooth, and the anticipation was palpable. This trip marks not just a vacation, but a deep dive into a culture I've always admired, a chance to share that passion with my family. As a Cypriot living in Berlin, I’m used to a blend of old and new, but Kyoto promises something truly special.

Our first day was ambitious, packed with iconic sights. We were eager to experience as much as possible, and Kyoto didn't disappoint. The weather in May is gorgeous, with comfortable temperatures making it perfect for exploring, though Lena reminded me to apply sunscreen – something I’d almost forgotten in my rush to pack. The spring season is lovely here; it’s warm but not too hot, with only a slight chance of rain.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at KITSUNE KYOTO. I opted for the Kitsune Udon, of course. The kids enjoyed some of the pastries on offer. Fuelled up, we set off to our first destination: Fushimi Inari Shrine (Thousand Torii Gates).


Explore the enchanting Fushimi Inari Shrine, home to thousands of vibrant torii gates, where tradition and breathtaking beauty await every visitor.

Through a Thousand Vermilion Gates

Fushimi Inari Shrine was everything I had imagined and more. The seemingly endless path of vibrant orange torii gates snaking up the mountain was an awe-inspiring sight. The kids were immediately captivated, running ahead to peek through each gate, their laughter echoing through the serene surroundings. I learned that the shrine was established way back in 711, long before Kyoto became the capital. It’s dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, and the numerous fox statues around the grounds are said to be Inari's messengers.

To walk through the torii gates of Fushimi Inari is to journey through time and tradition, a vibrant path connecting the earthly realm with the divine.

Lena, ever the photographer, was in her element, capturing the play of light and shadow on the vermilion gates. I tried my hand at a few shots too, hoping to capture even a fraction of the shrine's beauty. The hike to the summit was invigorating, offering stunning views of Kyoto. We didn't quite make it all the way, but the experience was fulfilling enough. The kids were fascinated by the smaller shrines along the way, each with its own stack of miniature torii gates donated by visitors. I couldn’t help but think about the countless prayers and wishes etched into those gates, a testament to the enduring power of faith.

Wandering Through Gion's Timeless Streets

Explore Gion, Kyoto's iconic geisha district, where tradition meets charm in a captivating blend of culture and history.

Next on our list was Gion, Kyoto's geisha district. Stepping into Gion felt like stepping back in time. The preserved wooden machiya townhouses, with their intricate latticework and softly glowing lanterns, created an atmosphere of timeless elegance. The history of Gion stretches back to the Middle Ages when the district was built to accommodate travelers and visitors to the nearby Yasaka Shrine. Today, it remains a vibrant cultural hub, and I was eager to experience its charm.

We strolled along Hanamikoji Street, the main thoroughfare, watching as the sun began to set, casting long shadows on the cobblestone path. I was hoping to catch a glimpse of a geiko (Kyoto geisha) or maiko (apprentice geisha), but alas, it wasn't our lucky day. Still, the atmosphere was enchanting enough. Lena and I ducked into a small tea house for a traditional tea ceremony, while the kids enjoyed some matcha ice cream.

As we wandered, I couldn't help but reflect on the stories these streets held. Gion has been carefully preserved, with the city undertaking projects to enhance its historical authenticity. It’s amazing to think that this area has been a center of culture and entertainment for centuries, a place where tradition and artistry thrive.

A Sunset View from Kiyomizu-dera

Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto, where culture and nature harmoniously blend.

Our final stop for the day was Kiyomizu-dera, a temple perched on the hillside east of Kyoto. Founded in 780, Kiyomizu-dera is best known for its wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, 13 meters above the hillside. The view from the stage was breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista of Kyoto bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun.

The main hall, built without the use of nails, houses a small statue of the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon, the temple's primary object of worship. We took a moment to pay our respects, offering a small prayer for our family's well-being. The kids were fascinated by the Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking. Lena playfully nudged me, reminding me of our own love story that began in a Berlin art gallery.

Before leaving, we visited the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors can drink from three separate streams of water, each said to have a different benefit: longevity, success at school, and a fortunate love life. We chose wisely, opting for a sip of each (though I made sure to avoid appearing too greedy!).

Dinner in Gion: A Culinary Delight

For dinner, we had reservations at Gion Mikaku, a restaurant renowned for its Tajima beef. Founded in 1929, Gion Mikaku has a long history of serving only the highest quality beef. The restaurant is located along the Shirakawa River, offering stunning views of the water. I was excited to try their teppanyaki steak, cooked right in front of us by a skilled chef. Lena opted for the teppanyaki sukiyaki, while the kids enjoyed some simpler fare.


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

The beef was exquisite, melting in my mouth with a rich, savory flavor. The chef explained that they only use unbred Tajima female cattle, which are carefully raised to produce the best quality meat. It was a truly special culinary experience, a perfect end to a perfect day.

Shinkyogoku Shopping Street: A Nighttime Stroll

After dinner, we decided to take a stroll through Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street. This lively pedestrian area is packed with shops selling everything from traditional crafts to trendy fashion. The kids were drawn to the colorful displays of souvenirs, while Lena and I browsed the shops selling traditional Japanese clothing.


Explore Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street, a vibrant hub of traditional crafts, delicious street food, and unique shopping experiences in the heart of Kyoto.

The shopping street has a long history, evolving from a temple district to a bustling commercial area. It’s a great place to experience the blend of old and new that Kyoto is famous for. We picked up a few souvenirs, including a traditional fan for Lena and some small toys for the kids. It was a fun, energetic way to cap off our first day in Kyoto.

Reflections on Day One

As we headed back to Hotel Rings Kyoto, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude. Our first day in Kyoto had been a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and flavors, a perfect introduction to this enchanting city. From the thousand gates of Fushimi Inari to the timeless streets of Gion and the stunning views from Kiyomizu-dera, we had experienced so much in just one day. I was especially glad to share these moments with Lena and the kids, creating memories that would last a lifetime.


Discover comfort and convenience at Hotel Rings Kyoto, your ideal base for exploring the enchanting city of Kyoto with free Wi-Fi and on-site dining!

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, visit Tenryu-ji Temple, and see Nijo Castle. We’re also hoping to relax at L'Escamoteur in the evening. I'm eager to see what other wonders Kyoto has in store for us. It's safe to say that this trip is already exceeding my expectations, and I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you all.

Until tomorrow,

Giorgos

P.S. I almost forgot! I spotted a poster for an indigo la End concert at Rohm Theatre Kyoto today, May 10th. I'm tempted to go, but I think I'll stick to the family-friendly itinerary for now!