Family Adventure in Kyoto: Cherry Blossoms and Cultural Wonders

Whispers of Ancient Kyoto

Today was a day of deep immersion into the spiritual heart of Kyoto. From the vibrant red torii gates of Fushimi Inari to the tranquil gardens of Tōfuku-ji, every moment was filled with a sense of history and wonder. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel – to experience the world through a different lens, to connect with cultures that have stood the test of time.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Nishikawa. The traditional Japanese breakfast set the perfect tone for a day of exploration. The delicate flavors and beautiful presentation were a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Astrid, surprisingly, was quite adventurous, trying everything from the miso soup to the pickled vegetables. Maximilian and I enjoyed the serene atmosphere, a calm start before the day's adventures.

Fushimi Inari Taisha: A Thousand Red Gates

Our first major stop was Fushimi Inari Taisha. The sheer number of vermilion torii gates snaking up the mountain was breathtaking. Astrid was immediately captivated, her little eyes wide with wonder as we started our ascent. The lower trails were bustling with fellow travelers, but as we climbed higher, the crowds thinned, and a sense of tranquility enveloped us.

The vibrant red color of the gates, known as *vermilion*, is said to ward off evil and bring good fortune. Each gate has been donated by a Japanese business, and their names are inscribed on the pillars. Walking through the seemingly endless tunnel of gates, I couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence and awe. The sunlight filtering through the trees created a magical, almost ethereal atmosphere.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and in Fushimi Inari, every step is a step deeper into the heart of Japanese spirituality.

We took our time, stopping to admire the intricate fox statues that guard the shrine. Foxes, or *kitsune*, are considered messengers of Inari, the god of rice, prosperity, and business. Astrid was fascinated by the foxes, pointing out their different expressions and poses. Maximilian, ever the history enthusiast, shared stories about the shrine's origins and significance. I tried to remember the sunscreen, but alas, it was still sitting on the bathroom counter back at the hotel.

As we climbed, we passed small tea houses offering refreshments and snacks. We stopped at one for some *inari sushi* and *kitsune udon*, both featuring aburaage (deep-fried tofu), which is said to be a favorite food of the foxes. Astrid loved the sweet and savory flavor of the inari sushi, declaring it her favorite Japanese food so far. I made a mental note to try making it at home.

We didn't make it to the very top of the mountain, as the trail is quite long and we wanted to ensure Astrid didn't get too tired. However, we reached a beautiful viewpoint overlooking Kyoto, where we paused to take in the panoramic vista. The city stretched out before us, a tapestry of ancient temples and modern buildings, all bathed in the warm glow of the afternoon sun. It was a moment of perfect serenity, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that awaits us when we take the time to explore.

Tōfuku-ji Temple: A Zen Oasis

After descending from Fushimi Inari, we took a short train ride to Tōfuku-ji Temple. In contrast to the vibrant energy of Fushimi Inari, Tōfuku-ji offered a sense of quiet contemplation. Founded in 1236, it's one of Kyoto's oldest and most significant Zen temples. I was particularly excited as I had read that the Hondo is opened to the public every year from the 14th – 16th of March to celebrate the anniversary of the Buddha's passing.

The temple grounds were expansive, featuring several impressive buildings, including the Sanmon Gate, the oldest Zen gate in Japan. We wandered through the gardens, admiring the carefully raked gravel, moss-covered stones, and meticulously pruned trees. The Hojo Garden was particularly striking, with its unique checkerboard patterns and abstract compositions. Astrid enjoyed running around the open spaces, while Maximilian and I took in the peaceful atmosphere.

One of the highlights of Tōfuku-ji was the Tsutenkyo Bridge, a covered walkway that spans a ravine filled with maple trees. Although it wasn't autumn, the view was still stunning, with lush greenery stretching as far as the eye could see. I could only imagine how spectacular it must be in November when the leaves turn fiery shades of red and gold. We made a promise to return someday to witness the autumn colors.

Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street: A Shopper's Paradise

As evening approached, we decided to explore Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street. This bustling arcade is a shopper's paradise, with a mix of traditional crafts, souvenirs, clothing boutiques, and restaurants. Astrid was thrilled by the colorful displays and the lively atmosphere. We picked up a few small souvenirs – a lucky cat charm for Astrid, a beautiful silk scarf for me, and a traditional fan for Maximilian. I was tempted to buy some sunscreen, but decided to wait until tomorrow.

The shopping street was also a culinary adventure, with numerous food stalls offering everything from street food to sweets. We sampled some *takoyaki* (octopus balls), *okonomiyaki* (savory pancake), and *dango* (sweet rice dumplings). Astrid especially loved the dango, devouring several skewers in quick succession. It's always a joy to see her experience new flavors and embrace different cultures.

Dinner at Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi: A Culinary Finale

For dinner, we chose Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi, a steak restaurant located along the Takase River. The restaurant had a relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for a special occasion. We opted for the Wagyu beef, which was expertly prepared and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Astrid enjoyed her perfectly cooked steak, declaring it the best she'd ever had. Maximilian and I savored every bite, appreciating the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the chef. The restaurant is known for its intimate setting, and it certainly delivered. I can see why it would be the perfect place for a proposal or anniversary.

As we walked back to the Ace Hotel Kyoto along the river, the city lights twinkled around us. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day. Astrid was happily exhausted, her head resting on my shoulder. Maximilian and I held hands, grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences as a family. Days like these create memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we are heading to Arashiyama to explore the bamboo forest and Tenryu-ji Temple. I’m particularly looking forward to strolling through the towering bamboo stalks and immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of the area. I've heard that it can get quite crowded, so we'll be sure to arrive early to beat the crowds. I think I'll set a reminder to pack the sunscreen this time!

The day was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about connecting with different cultures, creating lasting memories, and growing as a family. Each experience, from the spiritual serenity of Fushimi Inari to the culinary delights of Kyoto's restaurants, has enriched our lives in ways we never could have imagined. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to share these adventures with my loved ones, and I look forward to many more days of discovery in this beautiful country.


Discover the enchanting Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto's iconic Shinto shrine, adorned with thousands of vibrant torii gates winding through lush landscapes.


Experience the serene beauty of Tōfuku-ji Temple, a zen oasis in Kyoto with stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.


Explore Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street, a vibrant hub of traditional crafts, delicious street food, and unique shopping experiences in the heart of Kyoto.


Experience Kyoto's vibrant food scene with authentic yakiniku at Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi, where every bite tells a delicious story.


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