Family Adventure in Kyoto: Cherry Blossoms and Cultural Wonders

Kyoto's Creative Heart

Today was a delightful exploration of Kyoto's diverse artistic and culinary offerings. From the captivating world of manga to the bustling energy of Nishiki Market and the delicate artistry of shibori textiles, it was a day filled with color, flavor, and inspiration. I felt like a true explorer, diving deep into the heart of Japanese culture.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Masayoshi Japanese Dining. Maximilian had read some great reviews and was keen to try their Japanese take on steak. Astrid enjoyed her fluffy omelet, while I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set. It was a satisfying start to a day packed with exploration.

Our first stop was the Kyoto International Manga Museum. Astrid was especially excited, having recently discovered a love for manga through some German translations her cousin sent over. Housed in a former primary school, the museum exuded a nostalgic charm. As we wandered through the endless shelves filled with manga, I was struck by the sheer volume of work on display. Astrid was in heaven, flipping through different volumes, her eyes wide with wonder. Maximilian, surprisingly, also got engrossed in a historical manga about samurai.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

The museum wasn't just about reading; it also offered insights into the history and creation of manga. There was an interesting exhibition on the evolution of manga art, showcasing early examples and the different styles that have emerged over the years. Astrid even tried her hand at drawing her own manga character at one of the interactive exhibits. It was a fun and engaging experience for all of us.

After immersing ourselves in the world of manga, we headed to Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto's Kitchen. The market was a vibrant sensory overload, with narrow streets lined with stalls selling everything from fresh seafood and pickles to sweets and street food. The air was filled with the tantalizing aromas of grilling seafood and simmering broths. It was quite crowded, but that only added to the lively atmosphere.


Experience the vibrant flavors and rich culture at Nishiki Market, Kyoto's famous culinary destination, where tradition meets modernity.

We sampled our way through the market, trying various local delicacies. Astrid was particularly fond of the *tamagoyaki* (rolled omelet) and the colorful Japanese sweets. Maximilian enjoyed some fresh sashimi, while I indulged in a *matcha* ice cream. We also picked up some *tsukemono* (Japanese pickles) and dried seafood to take back to our hotel for later. I managed to find some *yuba*, which I remember my grandmother making back in Molde, and I felt a sudden connection to my roots. It's amazing how food can evoke such strong memories.

For lunch, we decided to try AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO, a vegan restaurant that Maximilian had discovered. As someone who appreciates sustainable and healthy food options, I was intrigued. The restaurant offered a variety of plant-based dishes, including vegan pancakes, burgers, and curries. I opted for the spinach green curry with brown rice, while Maximilian chose the teriyaki rice bowl. Astrid, of course, went for the heavenly vegan pancakes, which were indeed heavenly. It was a delicious and satisfying meal that left us feeling energized for the rest of the day.


Discover exquisite vegan delights at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO – where culinary creativity meets sustainable living.

Our final stop for the day was the Kyoto Shibori Museum. I've always been fascinated by textiles and traditional crafts, so I was eager to learn more about *shibori*, the Japanese art of tie-dyeing. The museum showcased the history and techniques of *shibori*, with stunning examples of intricately dyed fabrics and garments. I was amazed by the level of detail and the artistry involved in creating these beautiful textiles.


Explore the Kyoto Shibori Museum: A captivating journey into the traditional art of Japanese tie-dyeing with stunning exhibits and interactive workshops.

The museum also offered hands-on workshops, where visitors could try their hand at *shibori* dyeing. Astrid and I decided to participate in a scarf dyeing workshop, while Maximilian explored the museum's exhibits. We learned different *shibori* techniques, such as folding, twisting, and binding the fabric to create unique patterns. It was a challenging but rewarding experience, and we were both thrilled with the scarves we created. Astrid chose a vibrant color palette and even added some patterns that reminded her of manga.

After our creative session, we went shopping at mumokuteki goods & wears Kyoto. It's a shop that sells a variety of clothing, cosmetics, and household items. I found a beautiful *noren* (Japanese fabric divider) with a traditional *shibori* pattern, which I thought would look perfect in our living room back in Munich. Astrid picked out a cute *maneki-neko* (beckoning cat) figurine, while Maximilian found a stylish Japanese-made wallet.


Explore mumokuteki Goods & Wears in Kyoto for unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the essence of Japanese culture.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Jiki Miyazawa for dinner. This Kaiseki restaurant had been recommended to us by a friend who lived in Kyoto. We were looking forward to a traditional, multi-course Japanese dining experience. The restaurant was small and intimate, with a serene atmosphere. The chef prepared each dish with meticulous care, using fresh, seasonal ingredients. The presentation was exquisite, each course a work of art.


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

The *kaiseki* dinner was a culinary journey, with each course offering a new and exciting flavor combination. We savored the delicate flavors of the sashimi, the rich umami of the grilled fish, and the comforting warmth of the miso soup. Astrid even tried some of the more adventurous dishes, such as the sea urchin and the fermented vegetables. It was a truly memorable dining experience.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Heian Shrine and Kyoto Station. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing Heian Shrine, with its beautiful gardens and impressive architecture. I am also interested in visiting The Common One Bar Kyoto that is on the itinerary for tomorrow. It will be nice to relax and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. I am also excited about visiting Kyoto Station, it is a modern architectural marvel. I am hoping we can find some nice gifts for our friends back home.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience Kyoto's rich culture and artistic heritage. It's a city that truly captivates the senses and nourishes the soul. I am still a little homesick, I miss the fjords of Norway and the comfort of my home in Munich. But I am so thankful to be able to share these experiences with my family. Astrid is learning so much on this trip and I feel like it is something she will remember forever. Maximilian is doing a great job of capturing all of our memories on camera, and I can't wait to look back on these photos in the years to come. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures!