Family Adventure in Kyoto: Cherry Blossoms and Cultural Wonders

Echoes of Emperors: A Day Amidst Kyoto's Imperial Grandeur

Today was a day of stepping back in time, immersing ourselves in the heart of Japan's imperial history right here in Kyoto. From the majestic Nijō Castle to the serene Kyoto Imperial Palace and the sprawling Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, it was a journey through centuries of power, culture, and natural beauty.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at The Cellar Kyoto. Maximilian and I shared a knowing glance as we descended into the restaurant; its hidden entrance felt like the start of a grand adventure. Astrid, ever the curious one, was immediately captivated by the atmosphere, her eyes wide with wonder as she took in the unique decor. I opted for a traditional Norwegian waffle, a little piece of home away from home, while Maximilian chose a Japanese breakfast set. Astrid, of course, was happy with some toast and fruit. Fuelled up, we were ready to delve into Kyoto's rich history.

Our first stop was Nijō Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built in 1603, it served as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo period. As we approached the imposing Karamon Gate, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. The intricate carvings and gold leaf details were simply breathtaking. Astrid, however, was more interested in the massive stone walls, imagining them as the walls of a giant's castle.

Inside, the Ninomaru Palace was a marvel. The nightingale floors lived up to their name, chirping with every step we took. I learned that these floors were designed to alert the residents to intruders, a clever security measure from a bygone era. Maximilian, with his engineering mind, was fascinated by the mechanics of it all. Astrid, on the other hand, enjoyed the sound, pretending to be a little bird as we walked through the corridors.

The unfurnished interiors allowed us to focus on the exquisite details of the architecture and the beautifully painted screens. I was particularly impressed by the thick, carved wooden transoms, an early form of air conditioning that allowed air to flow between rooms. The audio guide was invaluable, providing insights into the history and significance of each room. Without it, I think we would have missed many of the subtle details that made Nijō Castle so special.

History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.

After Nijō Castle, we made our way to the Kyoto Imperial Palace, or Kyoto Gosho, which was once home to the Emperor of Japan. The palace is located within the sprawling Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a vast green space that offers a respite from the bustling city. The palace itself is a complex of elegant buildings, surrounded by walls and gates.

The Kyoto Imperial Palace had been used as the residence of emperors for five centuries, until the capital was moved to Tokyo in 1869. Most of the present buildings were rebuilt in 1855, incorporating architectural styles from various eras. It was fascinating to observe the transition of architectural styles and the essence of court culture through the buildings.

As we strolled through the palace grounds, I tried to imagine what life must have been like for the imperial family. The Shishinden (Hall for State Ceremonies), constructed in the Heian Period style, was particularly impressive. I learned that the enthronement ceremonies of Emperors Meiji, Taishō, and Shōwa were held in this hall, and the Takamikura Imperial Throne and Michodai August Seat are still located inside. Maximilian was impressed by the scale of the buildings and the precision of the craftsmanship, while Astrid enjoyed running around the open courtyards, pretending to be a princess.

The palace grounds also feature two beautiful gardens: the Pond Garden, with its spacious pond, and the Inner Garden, with its stone lanterns. The seasonal changes of flowers and trees add to the charm of the palace grounds. Even though it's still early in the blossom season, there were hints of pink and white on some of the trees. I made a mental note to come back later in the spring to see the gardens in full bloom.

After our visit to the Imperial Palace, we took a leisurely stroll through Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. This vast park was once the exclusive domain of the imperial court, but today it's a public space where locals and tourists alike can relax and enjoy nature. The park is home to a variety of gardens, including a plum grove, a peach grove, and a grove of weeping cherry trees. Although the plum blossoms were mostly past their peak, the peach blossoms were just starting to bloom, adding a splash of color to the landscape. The weeping cherry trees were particularly beautiful, their delicate branches cascading down like waterfalls of pink.

Astrid was delighted to discover the Demizu Water Stream, a shallow stream that runs through the park. She spent a happy half-hour splashing in the water and chasing after tiny fish. Maximilian and I took the opportunity to sit on a nearby bench and simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere. It was a perfect moment of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

For lunch, we had reservations at Kikunoi Roan, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant known for its exquisite Kaiseki cuisine. I was excited to experience this traditional Japanese culinary art form, and Maximilian, ever the adventurous eater, was eager to try new flavors. Astrid, however, was a bit more hesitant. I knew that Kaiseki cuisine could be quite sophisticated, so I packed some snacks for her, just in case.

The restaurant was a serene oasis, with minimalist decor and attentive service. We were seated at a private table overlooking a small garden, which added to the sense of tranquility. The Kaiseki meal consisted of nine courses, each one a work of art in itself. The dishes were beautifully arranged and garnished, often with real leaves and flowers. The flavors were delicate and complex, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients. Maximilian was in heaven, savoring every bite and marveling at the chef's skill.

Astrid surprised us by actually enjoying some of the dishes, particularly the steamed fish and the rice with salmon roe. The staff were incredibly accommodating, offering her simpler versions of some of the courses. By the end of the meal, even Astrid was won over by the beauty and artistry of Kaiseki cuisine. It was a truly memorable culinary experience, one that I will cherish for years to come.

After our extravagant lunch, we decided to do some shopping. We headed to Kyoto LOFT, a multi-story department store that sells everything from home goods to stationery to cosmetics. I was on the hunt for some unique souvenirs, while Maximilian was interested in finding some traditional Japanese crafts. Astrid, of course, was drawn to the toy section.

I was impressed by the range of products on offer at Kyoto LOFT. The store showcased both established brands and up-and-coming local artisans, providing a curated shopping experience that reflected Japan's renowned attention to detail and functionality. I found some beautiful handmade paper and a set of calligraphy brushes, which I thought would make perfect gifts for my friends back home. Maximilian purchased a set of sake cups made from Kiyomizu-yaki pottery, a traditional Kyoto craft. Astrid, after much deliberation, chose a plush toy of a Tanuki, a Japanese raccoon dog.

As evening approached, we made our way to Gion for dinner at Premium Pound Gion. This restaurant offers a unique teppanyaki experience, with only a handful of seats around a central cooking station. The chef was a master of his craft, skillfully preparing each dish with precision and flair. The Kobe beef was simply divine, melting in our mouths with every bite. The chef even spoke a few words in Norwegian to me, which was a delightful surprise.

Astrid was fascinated by the teppanyaki process, watching with wide eyes as the chef flipped and sliced the ingredients with practiced ease. He even let her help stir the vegetables, which made her feel like a real chef. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect end to a long and fulfilling day.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Philosopher's Path, Nanzen-ji Temple, and Eikandō Temple. I'm particularly excited about the Philosopher's Path, a scenic route that follows a canal lined with cherry trees. I'm hoping that the blossoms will be in full bloom by then, creating a truly magical experience. We'll also be doing some more shopping at Kyoto Porta.

As I sit here in our room at the Ace Hotel Kyoto, reflecting on the day, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude. Kyoto is a city that truly captivates the senses, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. I'm so grateful to be able to share this experience with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I am also grateful for the small mercies, like remembering to pack snacks for Astrid, even though I forgot the sunscreen. Perhaps I can find some tomorrow at Kyoto Porta.

Goodnight from Kyoto!


Explore Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, where history meets beauty in stunning gardens and exquisite Edo-period architecture.


Explore the lush landscapes and historic charm of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a serene escape in the heart of Kyoto.


Explore the historical grandeur of Kyoto Imperial Palace, a stunning blend of architecture and nature in Japan's ancient capital.


Discover culinary excellence at The Cellar Kyoto - where creative cuisine meets fine wine in a stylish setting.


Experience the art of kaiseki dining at Kikunoi Roan in Kyoto - where seasonal flavors meet exquisite presentation.


Explore Kyoto LOFT: A vibrant general store with cosmetics, home goods, and unique novelties in the heart of Kyoto.


Experience culinary artistry at Premium Pound Gion – where French cuisine meets Japanese teppanyaki in the heart of Kyoto's historic Gion district.


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