Exploring the Cultural Wonders of Kyoto with Family

Finding Peace and Flavors in Kyoto

Today was a beautiful blend of history, art, and gastronomy, perfectly capturing the essence of Kyoto. Lena and I, along with the family, embarked on a journey through ancient temples and bustling streets, creating memories that I know we'll cherish for years to come. It’s days like these that remind me why we started this adventure in the first place – to immerse ourselves in different cultures and share those experiences with all of you.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Arash's Kitchen. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, while Lena enjoyed a more Western-style toast and coffee. Fuelled up, we headed to our first destination: Sanjusangendo Temple.


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

Sanjusangendo Temple: A Thousand Arms of Compassion

The sheer scale of Sanjusangendo Temple is difficult to describe. As we stepped inside, we were met with a breathtaking sight – 1,001 statues of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. Each statue, crafted from wood and gilded with gold leaf, stood in perfect formation, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle.


Explore the serene Sanjusangendo Temple, home to 1001 captivating Kannon statues and a peaceful retreat in the heart of Kyoto.

The totality of these statues is breathtaking; slowing down to appreciate their subtle details allows one to absorb the beauty of Sanjusangendo Temple.

The craftsmanship was incredible. I found myself drawn to the intricate details of each statue, from the delicate expressions on their faces to the numerous arms reaching out in compassion. Lena was equally mesmerized, commenting on the sense of peace that permeated the hall. It was a truly humbling experience, a testament to the artistry and devotion of the people who created these masterpieces centuries ago. Photography wasn't allowed inside, which, in retrospect, was a blessing. It allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the moment, without the distraction of trying to capture the perfect shot. After spending a good hour wandering through the hall, we stepped outside into the temple gardens.

The gardens provided a tranquil contrast to the grandeur of the temple. We strolled along the paths, admiring the meticulously manicured trees and serene ponds. The kids enjoyed spotting koi fish swimming in the water, their bright colors adding a touch of whimsy to the peaceful setting. I took a moment to reflect on the history of the temple, imagining what life must have been like when it was first built in 1164. It’s amazing to think that this place has stood for centuries, witnessing countless generations of worshippers and visitors.

Higashiyama Jisho-ji (Ginkaku-ji): The Silver Pavilion's Subtle Charm

Next on our itinerary was Higashiyama Jisho-ji, also known as Ginkaku-ji or the Silver Pavilion. After the visual intensity of Sanjusangendo, Ginkaku-ji offered a more subdued, Zen-like experience. As we approached the pavilion, I couldn't help but compare it to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, which we visited a few days ago. While Kinkaku-ji dazzled with its opulence, Ginkaku-ji exuded a more subtle charm. It wasn't covered in silver as originally planned, but its understated elegance was captivating in its own way.


Discover the serene beauty of Higashiyama Jisho-ji, a historic Buddhist temple and natural oasis in Kyoto, Japan.

The gardens surrounding Ginkaku-ji were equally impressive. We wandered through the meticulously raked sand gardens, marveling at the precision and artistry of the designs. The famous “Sea of Silver Sands” and the conical “Moon Viewing Platform” were particularly striking, their stark simplicity creating a sense of calm and contemplation. Lena, ever the artist, was fascinated by the way the light played on the sand, creating different textures and patterns throughout the day.

We climbed the hillside behind the pavilion, rewarded with panoramic views of Kyoto. From up there, we could see the city stretching out before us, a tapestry of rooftops and temples nestled amidst the lush green hills. It was a perfect spot to take a deep breath and appreciate the beauty of our surroundings. The kids, of course, were more interested in spotting familiar landmarks, pointing out the Kyoto Tower and other places we had visited earlier in the week.

Before leaving Ginkaku-ji, we explored the moss garden, a verdant oasis of tranquility. The soft, velvety moss covered everything – rocks, trees, and even the ground beneath our feet. It felt like stepping into another world, a place of quiet contemplation and natural beauty. As a software developer, I often find myself caught up in the fast-paced world of technology, so moments like these are especially precious. They remind me to slow down, appreciate the simple things, and reconnect with nature.

Inobun: A Treasure Trove of Local Crafts

After a morning of temple hopping, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at Inobun, a well-known boutique store in the Shijo Kawaramachi area. This multi-story shop was a treasure trove of local goods and souvenirs, offering everything from stylish fashion accessories to kitchen supplies and furniture. Lena, with her keen eye for design, was in her element, browsing through the beautifully curated displays. I was impressed by the quality and craftsmanship of the products, each one reflecting the unique aesthetic of Kyoto.


Discover a treasure trove of unique gifts and stylish goods at Inobun, Kyoto's charming shop for souvenirs and more.

The kids, surprisingly, were also engaged, drawn to the colorful stationery and quirky toys. We ended up buying a few small gifts for friends and family back home, as well as a couple of souvenirs for ourselves – a beautiful ceramic tea set and a set of handcrafted chopsticks. It was the perfect place to find unique and authentic reminders of our time in Kyoto.

Pontocho: A Culinary Journey by the River

As evening approached, we made our way to Pontocho, one of Kyoto’s most atmospheric dining areas. This narrow alley, running alongside the Kamogawa River, is packed with restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines. The warm glow of the lanterns and the gentle sound of the river created a magical ambiance, making it the perfect setting for our final meal of the day.


Discover the enchanting Pontocho Alley in Kyoto, where tradition meets culinary delight amidst historic wooden machiya houses.

Pontocho is a vibrant place where you can enjoy outdoor riverside dining, offering a quintessential Kyoto experience.

We had made a reservation at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION, eager to sample some of Japan’s most famous wagyu beef. The restaurant was elegant and intimate, with a cozy atmosphere that made us feel right at home. The chef greeted us warmly and explained the different cuts of beef on offer, helping us to make our selections.


Experience unparalleled flavors at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION in Kyoto - a must-visit for steak lovers seeking authenticity.

The meal was an absolute delight. The Kobe beef was incredibly tender and flavorful, melting in our mouths with each bite. Lena and I savored every moment, appreciating the exquisite quality of the ingredients and the skill of the chef. Even the kids, who can sometimes be picky eaters, were impressed, declaring it the best steak they had ever tasted.

As we dined, we watched the geishas gracefully walking by, adding a touch of elegance and mystique to the scene. Pontocho is known for its geisha houses, and it’s not uncommon to spot these traditional performers as they make their way to and from appointments. It felt like stepping back in time, a glimpse into a world of ancient traditions and refined artistry.

After dinner, we strolled along the riverbank, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the twinkling lights of the city. It was the perfect end to a perfect day, a reminder of the beauty and magic of Kyoto. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Yasaka Shrine, Shimogamo Shrine, and the Kyoto Railway Museum. I'm particularly excited about the Railway Museum, as I've always been fascinated by trains, and I know the kids will love it too.

“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” – St. Augustine. And today, we added another beautiful page to our family’s travel journal. Until tomorrow, sayonara from Kyoto!