Family Adventure in Kyoto: Cherry Blossoms and Cultural Wonders

Day 10: Temples and Treasures

Today was a beautiful blend of the old and the new, a day where we explored Kyoto's serene temples and vibrant shopping streets. It was a day of contrasts, from the hushed reverence of ancient halls to the lively bustle of modern commerce. These are the days that truly capture the essence of Kyoto, a city that gracefully balances its rich past with its dynamic present.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Anzukko. It's a small gyoza bar, and I was really looking forward to trying their inventive gyoza. I'd read about it online, and it seemed like the perfect way to start a day of exploring. We managed to snag a table, and it was such a cozy spot. I decided to order their signature Anzukko Gyoza. The gyoza were delicious and I can see why there is a limit of 8 per customer. Astrid really enjoyed the gyoza as well! Maximilian opted for the seafood boiled dumplings, which were filled with scallop and dried shrimp. He said they were delicious. We also ordered a creamy potato salad with smoked bacon, egg, and onion.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Anzukko in Kyoto - renowned for exquisite gyoza and vibrant izakaya atmosphere.

With our bellies full, we set off to explore the temples, and our first stop was Nanzen-ji Temple. The cherry blossoms were in full bloom, creating a breathtaking backdrop to the temple's impressive architecture. The grounds of Nanzen-ji are expansive, and there's a sense of tranquility that washes over you as you wander through the gardens and past the various sub-temples.


Discover tranquility at Nanzen-ji Temple, an iconic Buddhist temple complex in Kyoto, rich in history, beauty, and cultural significance.

Nanzen-ji Temple is steeped in history, originally a retirement villa for Emperor Kameyama before being dedicated as a Zen temple in 1291. As we wandered through the grounds, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and serenity. The towering San-mon gate was an impressive sight, and I learned that you can climb to the second story for a panoramic view of the city. We decided to skip the climb this time, but made a mental note to come back and do it on a future visit. Maximilian was particularly taken with the aqueduct, a brick structure that carries water through the temple grounds. It's an unusual feature, but it adds to the unique charm of Nanzen-ji. Astrid, of course, was fascinated by the koi ponds, and we spent a good amount of time watching the colorful fish swim around.

Kyoto is a city where every corner holds a story, where the past and present intertwine to create an experience that is both enriching and unforgettable.

After Nanzen-ji, we made our way to Sanjūsangendō Temple, famed for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The temple hall itself is an impressive wooden structure, the longest of its kind in Japan, measuring 120 meters. The name Sanjūsangendō, meaning 33 intervals, refers to the number of intervals between the building's support columns. Entering the hall was like stepping into another world. The sight of the 1,001 golden Kannon statues, each with 11 heads and 42 arms, was truly awe-inspiring. The statues are arranged in rows, and each one has a unique expression. It's said that no two statues are exactly alike, which is a testament to the skill of the artisans who created them.


Discover the timeless beauty of Sanjūsangendō Temple in Kyoto, home to 1001 Kannon statues and a serene garden that reflects Japan's rich cultural heritage.

I was particularly moved by the history of the temple, which was founded in 1164 by Taira no Kiyomori for Emperor Go-Shirakawa. The original structure was destroyed by fire, but it was rebuilt in 1266. The temple has been a place of worship and contemplation for centuries, and you can feel the weight of history as you walk through the hall. Astrid was surprisingly quiet and respectful as we viewed the statues, and I think she sensed the sacredness of the space.

After immersing ourselves in the serene atmosphere of Sanjūsangendō Temple, we decided to dive into the vibrant energy of the Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade. I was looking forward to experiencing the blend of traditional and modern shops that the arcade had to offer. As we stepped into the covered arcade, we were immediately enveloped in a lively atmosphere. The arcade was bustling with shoppers, and the sounds of vendors calling out their wares filled the air. The Sanjo Meiten-gai is one of Kyoto's oldest shopping arcades, and it's a great place to find everything from traditional crafts to modern fashion.


Discover the heart of Kyoto at Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade, where traditional charm meets modern shopping and dining.

Astrid was immediately drawn to a shop selling colorful candies and sweets, while Maximilian was interested in a store specializing in traditional Japanese knives. I enjoyed browsing through the various souvenir shops, looking for unique mementos to bring back home. We ended up buying a beautiful silk scarf for my mother and a small wooden toy for Astrid. The Sanjo Meiten-gai is also home to a number of restaurants and cafes, and we stopped for a quick snack of takoyaki, savory octopus balls that are a popular street food in Japan.

For dinner, we ventured to Hanasaki, drawn by its reputation for exquisite Kyoto cuisine. The restaurant is located in the Gion district, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geishas. We opted for a Kaiseki meal which consisted of multiple courses, each more beautiful and delicious than the last. I especially enjoyed the charcoal-grilled fish, which was cooked to perfection. Maximilian savored the Kyoto beef steak, which was tender and flavorful. Astrid, surprisingly, loved the tofu dishes, which were delicate and subtly flavored. The service was impeccable, and the staff went out of their way to make us feel welcome. The ambiance of the restaurant was elegant and refined, and it was the perfect setting for a special meal.


Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Hanasaki in Kyoto - where tradition meets artistry in every delicious dish.

As we walked back to the Ace Hotel Kyoto, I reflected on the day's adventures. We had explored ancient temples, wandered through bustling shopping streets, and savored exquisite cuisine. It was a day that had truly captured the essence of Kyoto, a city that seamlessly blends the old and the new. I felt grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, and I knew that these memories would stay with us long after we left Japan.


Discover the heart of Kyoto at Ace Hotel, where modern comforts meet traditional charm, just steps from iconic attractions and vibrant culture.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we are planning to visit the Shugakuin Imperial Villa and the Kyoto Botanical Gardens. I am particularly excited about the Imperial Villa, as I have heard that it is a stunning example of Japanese garden design. Astrid is looking forward to the Botanical Gardens, where she can explore the various plant species and run around in the open spaces. We also have reservations at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant Mouriya Gion for breakfast, Fujiya for lunch, and Antonio for dinner. And we'll be visiting Harajuku Chicago Kyoto Store for some shopping.

The blend of historical sites and natural beauty promises another enriching day in Kyoto. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings!

The evening was relaxing, and we were able to unwind at the Ace Hotel Kyoto, which is conveniently located and offers modern comforts. I am so grateful for these moments with Maximilian and Astrid, and I am already looking forward to another day of exploration in this beautiful city.