Family Adventure in Kyoto: Cherry Blossoms and Cultural Wonders

A Glimpse into Old Kyoto

Today, I found myself utterly captivated by the Gion district, a place where time seems to slow down, and the essence of traditional Japan comes alive. It was a day filled with cultural immersion, spiritual reflection, and delightful culinary experiences that I can't wait to share.

Our day began with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Saishuan Shiraki. Tucked away in a cozy corner, this small restaurant offered a set menu with the option for vegan, vegetarian, fish, or meat dishes. I opted for the vegetarian selection, and Maximilian, ever the carnivore, chose the meat option. Astrid, surprisingly, went for the fish! The hosts spoke impeccable English, which made us feel instantly welcome. The food was amazing, highlighting local Kyoto flavors. It felt like dining with family, a truly authentic experience. I even tried some new pickled vegetables that were surprisingly delightful. Astrid, usually a picky eater, finished her entire portion of grilled fish. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration.


Discover the authentic flavors of Japan at Saishuan Shiraki - a premier izakaya experience in the heart of Kyoto.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its stunning landscapes and historical sites, but in the way it gently encourages you to slow down and appreciate the simple moments.

After breakfast, we ventured into the heart of Gion. The district's history dates back to the Middle Ages, initially serving travelers and pilgrims visiting the nearby Yasaka Shrine. As we strolled through the narrow streets, lined with preserved wooden machiya townhouses, I could almost feel the whispers of history etched in every alley. Gion is renowned as Kyoto's most famous geisha district, and I was eager to experience its unique charm.

Our first stop was Yasaka Shrine, also known as Gion Shrine. Founded over 1350 years ago, this Shinto shrine stands at the east end of Shijō-dōri, serving as a gateway to the Gion district. The shrine is dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the god of storms and sea, and his wife, Inada-hime. As we approached the main hall, I was struck by the vibrant colors and intricate details of the architecture. The main hall combines the honden (inner sanctuary) and haiden (offering hall) into a single building, creating a unique and impressive structure. Hundreds of lanterns adorned the dance stage in front of the hall, each bearing the name of a local business. Astrid was fascinated by the lanterns, pointing out her favorite colors and designs. We took a moment to offer a prayer for good health and safe travels, embracing the spiritual atmosphere of the shrine.


Discover the beauty and tranquility of Yasaka Shrine, a historic Shinto shrine in Kyoto, surrounded by stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.

Leaving Yasaka Shrine, we made our way to Hanamikoji Street, Gion's most famous street. This historic street is lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, many of which now house high-end restaurants, ochaya teahouses, and shops selling Kyoto crafts. Hanamikoji Street is renowned for its geisha culture, and I was hopeful for a glimpse of a maiko or geiko gracefully passing by. We strolled along the cobblestone street, admiring the well-preserved Edo-period scenery. The vermilion latticework and wooden fences of the machiya houses created a picturesque scene. I imagined what it must have been like centuries ago, when samurai warriors and powerful politicians frequented these streets. As dusk approached, the lanterns began to illuminate the street, casting a soft, magical glow. It felt like stepping back in time.


Explore Hanamikoji Street in Kyoto, where traditional architecture, geisha culture, and exquisite cuisine come together in a captivating journey.

We paused at Kennin-ji Temple, Kyoto's oldest Zen temple, founded in 1202. Although we didn't have time to explore the temple grounds fully, we admired the serene rock gardens and the stunning Twin Dragons ceiling painting from the entrance. The temple offered a tranquil escape from the bustling streets of Gion.

Lunch was at Gion Mikaku, a steakhouse founded in 1929. Known for its high-quality wagyu beef, Gion Mikaku promised a culinary experience we wouldn't forget. Maximilian was particularly excited, as he's a huge fan of Japanese beef. The restaurant exuded an old-world charm, with friendly and dedicated service. We opted for the Tajima beef filet mignon and Kobe beef rump steak, both cooked to perfection on a hot griddle. The beef was incredibly tender and flavorful, melting in my mouth with each bite. Astrid, surprisingly, devoured her portion of the steak, declaring it the best meat she had ever tasted. The meal also included garlic rice, which was a delicious accompaniment to the beef.


Discover Gion Mikaku, where exceptional steak meets authentic Japanese culture in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district.

As evening approached, we decided to experience Gion's nightlife. We ventured to Bar K6, an upscale cocktail bar known for its vast selection of spirits and sophisticated ambiance. Stepping inside felt like entering an old American film, with slick servers and a cozy decor. Maximilian, a whiskey aficionado, was impressed by the bar's selection of single malts. I ordered a classic gin and tonic, expertly crafted by the bartender. The bar had a diverse clientele, from businessmen to geiko, creating a unique and lively atmosphere.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Bar K6, where traditional Japanese drinks meet modern bar culture in a cozy setting.

Before heading back to the Ace Hotel Kyoto, we took one last stroll through Hanamikoji Street. The street was now transformed into a magical scene, illuminated by lanterns and filled with the sounds of laughter and music. We were fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of a maiko hurrying to an appointment, dressed in an elegant kimono. It was a quintessential Kyoto sight, creating an unforgettable memory of our visit.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Kyoto International Manga Museum, Nishiki Market, and the Kyoto Shibori Museum. Astrid is particularly excited about the Manga Museum, as she's recently developed an interest in Japanese comics. I'm looking forward to experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of Nishiki Market and learning about the traditional art of shibori at the Kyoto Shibori Museum. We might also visit mumokuteki goods & wears Kyoto to pick up some souvenirs.

Today in Gion was a truly immersive experience, offering a glimpse into the heart of traditional Kyoto. From the ancient shrines to the geisha culture and the culinary delights, every moment was filled with wonder and discovery. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

I'm also glad I didn't forget the camera today, as I almost did! I did miss the sunscreen and umbrella, though, and the phrasebook would have been useful.

Looking forward to sharing more adventures with you all tomorrow!