Exploring the Cultural Wonders of Kyoto with Family

A Day of Tranquility in Kyoto

Today was a day dedicated to finding peace and serenity amidst the historical and cultural richness of Kyoto. Lena and I, along with the kids, set out to explore some of the city's most beautiful temples and gardens, hoping to capture the essence of tranquility that Kyoto is so famous for. It was a day of reflection, appreciation, and a deep dive into the aesthetic beauty of this ancient capital.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hafuu. I had heard great things about their Japanese beef dishes, and it was just what we needed to start our day of exploration.

Shorenin Temple: A Hidden Gem

Our first stop was Shorenin Temple, a place I had read about as a 'hidden gem' in Kyoto. It was surprisingly easy to reach, and I was immediately struck by its serene atmosphere. Unlike some of the more crowded temples we’ve visited, Shorenin offered a sense of quiet contemplation. The kids were fascinated by the colorful fusuma-e (sliding door paintings), which added a modern touch to the traditional setting. Lena, ever the art enthusiast, spent a good amount of time admiring the intricate details and vibrant colors. The temple's connection to the imperial family added a layer of historical significance, making the visit all the more enriching. The gardens were a true highlight, designed to perfection. The manicured landscapes and strategically placed stones created a sense of harmony and balance. I found myself lost in thought as I wandered through the pathways, appreciating the beauty of nature and the artistry of the garden's design. It was a perfect start to our day of seeking tranquility. The kids enjoyed exploring the small pathways and discovering hidden corners of the garden. It was a joy to see them appreciate the beauty of nature in such a peaceful setting.


Experience the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Shōrenin Temple, a must-visit Buddhist temple in Kyoto's enchanting Higashiyama Ward.

The true beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its grand monuments, but in the quiet corners where you can connect with history and nature.

Kodaiji Temple: A Journey Through Time

Next on our itinerary was Kodaiji Temple, founded in 1606 by Nene, the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. This temple is a testament to her devotion and a beautiful tribute to Japan's rich cultural tapestry. The temple is nestled at the foot of the Higashiyama Ryozen Mountains, providing a serene escape into the past. As we approached Kodaiji, the artistry of the temple was immediately apparent. The unique style and lavish details left a lasting impression on all of us. The clever design choices and excellent layout made it easy to navigate and appreciate the temple's beauty. Lena was particularly impressed by the Kodai-ji Makie lacquerwork, which featured stunning designs of powdered gold and silver set in lacquer. The kids enjoyed exploring the temple grounds, discovering hidden pathways and admiring the intricate details of the architecture. The gardens at Kodaiji were designed by Enshu Kobori, a notable Japanese artist and aristocrat, and the teahouses were designed by Sen-no-Rikyu, a legendary figure in Japanese tea culture. These elements added to the temple's appeal and made it a unique and special place. We took our time wandering through the gardens, appreciating the thoughtful design and the sense of peace that permeated the air. It was a perfect place to reflect on the history and culture of Kyoto. I learned that Kodaiji Temple often holds nighttime illuminations, enhancing the temple's unique architecture and design with artificial lighting. While we visited during the day, I made a mental note to consider returning for an evening visit in the future. It sounds like a magical experience that would further accentuate the temple's beauty. I was also fascinated by the history of Kodaiji Temple. Founded by Nene in memory of her late husband, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the temple is a symbol of love, devotion, and remembrance. Learning about the temple's origins added a deeper layer of appreciation to our visit.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Kodaiji Temple, a historical Buddhist temple in Kyoto, showcasing stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.

For lunch, we stopped at Yoshikawa, a restaurant renowned for its tempura. The light and non-greasy tempura was a delight, and the kids particularly enjoyed watching the chefs at work. It was a perfect culinary experience that complemented our day of cultural exploration.

Maruyama Park: Nature's Embrace

Our final destination for the day was Maruyama Park, a public park next to Yasaka Shrine in the Higashiyama District. Maruyama Park offered a casual refuge from the hustle and bustle of Kyoto's tourist districts. The expansive park provided ample space for the kids to run around and play, while Lena and I enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the grounds. I had read that Maruyama Park is famous for its cherry blossoms in the spring, becoming Kyoto's most popular spot for hanami (flower viewing) parties. Although we were visiting in May, the park was still beautiful, with lush greenery and vibrant flowers. The centerpiece of the park is a tall shidarezakura (weeping cherry tree), which is lit up at night. I could only imagine how stunning it must look during the cherry blossom season. We found a peaceful spot near a pond and sat down to relax and take in the scenery. The kids enjoyed feeding the ducks and watching the fish swim in the pond. It was a perfect way to end our day of exploring Kyoto's tranquil side. I learned that Maruyama Park is also known for its culinary delights. There are several Japanese restaurants dotted around the park, including one establishment with three Michelin Stars. While we didn't have time to dine at any of the restaurants, I made a mental note to consider it for a future visit.


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

Before heading back to the hotel, we stopped by Harajuku Chicago Kyoto Store, a used clothing store specializing in fashionable pre-loved garments. Lena and the kids had fun browsing through the eclectic mix of styles, and we even managed to find a few unique pieces to take home as souvenirs.

Dinner at Oryori Menami: A Culinary Finale

For dinner, we chose Oryori Menami, a restaurant that began as a place serving obanzai and yakitori. The Michelin Guide describes it as offering good quality and good value cooking. The restaurant's atmosphere was cozy and inviting, reflecting the rich culture and history of Kyoto. We enjoyed a variety of dishes that showcased the flavors and techniques unique to Kyoto-style Japanese cuisine. Each dish was thoughtfully prepared using fresh local ingredients, providing an authentic taste of Japan. The kids particularly enjoyed the yakitori, while Lena and I savored the delicate fish preparations and seasonal vegetable dishes. The attentive service and warm hospitality made our dining experience even more enjoyable. It was a perfect way to end our day of exploring Kyoto's tranquil side.

As we headed back to Hotel Rings Kyoto, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the day's experiences. We had found peace and serenity amidst the historical and cultural richness of Kyoto, and we had created memories that would last a lifetime. Traveling with family can be challenging at times, but moments like these make it all worthwhile. As I reflect on our experiences today, I am reminded of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the beauty that surrounds us. Kyoto has a way of captivating the soul and inviting you to connect with its rich history and culture. I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family and to document them on my blog.


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 marks the last day of our Kyoto adventure. We plan to visit Togetsukyo Bridge, Kenninji Temple and the Kyoto International Manga Museum. I am looking forward to exploring these new attractions and sharing our experiences with you. Until then, sayonara!

“In the depth of winter, I finally learned that there was in me an invincible summer.” – Albert Camus. This quote reminds me that even in the midst of challenges, there is always inner peace and strength to be found.