Family Adventure in Kyoto: Cherry Blossoms and Cultural Wonders

Kyoto's Harmony: Temples, Trains, and Tastes

Today was a beautiful blend of the old and the new, a perfect encapsulation of Kyoto's charm. We started our day with a serene visit to a magnificent shrine, followed by an exploration of a modern architectural marvel, and ended with a delightful culinary journey. It's amazing how much this city offers, and I'm excited to share our experiences.

Our Sunday began with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Kyoto cuisine Hanasaki Nishikiten. It was a delightful start to the day, setting the tone for cultural immersion. The restaurant exuded the style of an old townhouse, providing a tranquil and elegant setting. The menu featured seasonal Kyoto vegetables and tofu from Nishiki Market. I savored every bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such authentic flavors. Astrid, surprisingly, enjoyed the tofu, while Maximilian appreciated the delicate balance of the dishes. It's moments like these that make traveling as a family so rewarding.


Discover authentic Kyoto cuisine at Hanasaki Nishikiten—where tradition meets culinary artistry in every exquisite dish.

A Morning at Heian Shrine

After breakfast, we made our way to Heian Shrine. The shrine was built in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of Kyoto as Japan's capital, and is dedicated to Emperor Kanmu and Emperor Komei. The vibrant vermilion and white colors of the buildings stood out against the clear sky, creating a striking visual. The shrine is a scaled-down replica of the Imperial Palace from the Heian Period, and its design blends Chinese and Japanese architectural elements. As we approached the Otenmon Gate, I felt a sense of reverence and awe.


Experience the beauty and tranquility of Heian Shrine, a cultural gem in Kyoto showcasing stunning Shinto architecture and exquisite gardens.

We strolled through the spacious courtyard, admiring the symmetrical arrangement of the halls and towers. Astrid was fascinated by the large, open space, running around and giggling. Maximilian, ever the history enthusiast, read aloud from our guidebook, explaining the significance of each structure. The Heian Shrine's torii gate, one of the largest in Japan, marked a symbolic entry into a sacred world. The architecture reflected the elegance of the Heian Period, with vermilion and white colors symbolizing purity and protection.

The beauty of Kyoto lies in its ability to seamlessly blend tradition and modernity, offering a unique and enriching experience for every traveler.

The gardens behind the main buildings were a highlight of our visit. Designed by Ogawa Jihei VII, the gardens cover an area of 30,000 square meters and exemplify Japan's appreciation of nature. Each garden is built in a different style, featuring ponds, plants, and carefully integrated designs. We spent a good hour exploring the gardens, enjoying the serene atmosphere and the beautiful scenery. The cherry trees, though not yet in full bloom, hinted at the spectacular display to come in a few weeks. I could only imagine how breathtaking it must be when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. We even spotted some turtles and fish in the ponds, which delighted Astrid to no end.

Lunch with a Twist

For lunch, we decided to try something different and headed to Mezopotamia Kebab House. It was quite a change from the traditional Japanese cuisine we had been enjoying, but I always believe in trying local favorites, no matter the origin. The kebab house was a small, unassuming spot, but the aroma of the grilled meat was irresistible. We ordered a few kebab rolls and found a nearby spot to sit and enjoy our meal. The kebabs were flavorful and satisfying, a welcome change of pace. Astrid, surprisingly adventurous, devoured her kebab with gusto. Maximilian appreciated the unique blend of spices and the tender meat. It was a simple but delicious meal, and I was glad we decided to try it.


Experience authentic Middle Eastern cuisine at Mezopotamia Kebab House in Kyoto - where every bite tells a story.

Kyoto Station: A Modern Marvel

In the afternoon, we visited Kyoto Station, a modern architectural marvel that stands in stark contrast to the traditional temples and shrines of the city. The station was opened in 1997 to commemorate Kyoto's 1200th anniversary, and its futuristic design was conceived by architect Hiroshi Hara. As we approached the station, I was struck by its immense size and the gleaming glass and steel façade. It's like nothing Kyoto had ever seen before, and many local people opposed it, saying it was an eyesore and out of keeping with Kyoto's traditional cityscape. Nevertheless, the 15-story building opened to the public and has become a popular tourist attraction.


Discover the vibrant heart of Kyoto at Kyoto Station, a hub of cultural experiences, shopping, and culinary delights, blending tradition with modernity.

Inside, the station was a bustling hub of activity, with people rushing to catch trains, shopping at the numerous stores, and dining at the various restaurants. The main hall, with its exposed steel beamed roof, was particularly impressive. We took the escalators to the top floor, where we found an open-air observation deck. The views from the deck were stunning, offering a panoramic perspective of the city. Astrid was thrilled to be so high up, pointing out the various landmarks we had visited. Maximilian, ever the engineer, admired the intricate structure of the station. The station's large main hall with its exposed steel beamed roof, called the Matrix, is meant to reflect both the structure of the station and the grid-like layout of Kyoto's street network.

Kyoto Station is more than just a transportation hub. It's a city within a city, housing a shopping mall, hotel, movie theater, Isetan department store, and several local government facilities. We spent a good couple of hours exploring the station, marveling at its design and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. It was a fascinating experience, showcasing the modern side of Kyoto.

Evening Indulgence

Before dinner, we decided to experience Kyoto's nightlife at The Common One Bar Kyoto. Finding the entrance was part of the adventure, but once inside, we were transported to a world of refined elegance. The bar featured tatami rooms and a tea room, blending tradition and modernity seamlessly. The bartenders were attentive and skilled, crafting creative cocktails with precision. I opted for a brandy-based cocktail, while Maximilian chose a local sake. The drinks were expertly made and beautifully presented. The Common One Bar Kyoto is a modern bar where you can immerse yourself in the traditional atmosphere of Kyoto. It features tatami rooms and a tea room, creating a space where tradition and modernity blend beautifully.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at The Common One Bar, where tradition meets innovation in every cocktail.

For dinner, we indulged in a traditional Kyoto cuisine experience at Gion Nanba. Located near Yasaka Shrine, the restaurant was a quaint Kappo establishment nestled in a traditional Kyoto alley. The atmosphere was cozy and elegant, with a counter that offered a view of the chefs at work. The dishes were crafted with seasonal ingredients, showcasing the flavors of Kyoto. I savored every bite, appreciating the artistry and the attention to detail. Astrid, though usually picky, enjoyed the simpler dishes, while Maximilian was impressed by the complexity of the flavors. Gion Nanba is a place you'll want to visit with someone special, season after season.


Discover authentic kaiseki cuisine at Gion Nanba, where tradition meets taste in Kyoto's historic Gion district.

Our culinary journey continued with a multi-course meal featuring seasonal ingredients, each dish a work of art. The experience was intimate and authentic, providing a glimpse into the heart of Kyoto's culinary traditions. Maximilian and I enjoyed the sophisticated atmosphere, while Astrid was surprisingly well-behaved, captivated by the beautiful presentations.

Reflections on the Day

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on our experiences. From the serene beauty of Heian Shrine to the modern marvel of Kyoto Station, and the culinary delights we enjoyed, Kyoto had once again captivated us with its unique blend of tradition and modernity. It's a city that offers something for everyone, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. The city's temples, shrines, and gardens offer a glimpse into its rich history and cultural heritage, while its modern architecture and culinary scene showcase its vibrant present. The most remarkable thing about Kyoto is how well it manages to blend these two seemingly disparate aspects, creating a unique and enriching experience for every traveler.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Nanzen-ji Temple and Sanjūsangendō Temple, continuing our exploration of Kyoto's cultural treasures. I'm also looking forward to some shopping at the Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade. Until then, I'll cherish the memories of this beautiful day.

As I sit here writing, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a rich and vibrant culture. Kyoto has a way of touching the soul, leaving a lasting impression that I know I will carry with me long after we've left. It's a city that invites you to slow down, to appreciate the simple things, and to find beauty in the everyday. And that, I believe, is a lesson worth learning.

The balance of the whole dish is good, and the creative ideas of the cook are felt everywhere in the dish. As it is located in the back alley of Shijo Hanami Koji, it is a recommended shop that is likely to be one of Kyoto sightseeing.