Family Adventure in Kyoto: Cherry Blossoms and Cultural Wonders

Finding Serenity on the Philosopher's Path

Today was a day of gentle exploration and quiet contemplation in Kyoto. I find that sometimes the most profound travel experiences come not from ticking off a list of must-see sights, but from allowing oneself to simply wander and soak in the atmosphere. Today was one of those days, a perfect blend of nature, history, and, of course, delicious food.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at French Dining Top of Kyoto, nestled within the Ace Hotel Kyoto. Maximilian and Astrid always appreciate a good breakfast, and the selection this morning was superb. I savored a flaky croissant and a strong cup of coffee, fueling up for our day of walking and temple visits. Astrid was particularly excited about the pastries, and Maximilian enjoyed the fresh fruit. It's moments like these, sharing a meal together, that make our family travels so special.


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

With our stomachs full and our spirits high, we set out to explore the Philosopher's Path. The path, a stone walkway following a canal lined with cherry trees, is named after the philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who was said to meditate here. As we strolled along, the air was crisp and cool, a welcome change from the warmer temperatures we'd experienced earlier in the week. I had hoped to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom, but according to a recent report, they are running a bit behind this year in Kyoto. Still, the budding trees held a promise of the beauty to come, and the path itself was lovely, even without the explosion of pink.


Discover the beauty of Kyoto's Philosopher's Path, a serene walkway lined with cherry blossoms, temples, and rich cultural heritage for an unforgettable experience.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its famous landmarks, but in the quiet moments of reflection found along its ancient paths.

The Philosopher's Path led us to our first temple of the day, Nanzen-ji. This Zen Buddhist temple, with its massive Sanmon entrance gate, was truly impressive. We learned that Nanzen-ji was originally built in the 13th century as Emperor Kameyama's retirement villa before being converted into a temple. The history of the place was palpable, and I felt a sense of peace as we wandered through the grounds. Maximilian was fascinated by the aqueduct that runs through the temple complex, a remnant of the Meiji Period canal system connecting Kyoto with Lake Biwa. Astrid, of course, was more interested in the koi pond, where she delighted in watching the colorful fish swim about.


Discover the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Nanzen-ji, a treasured Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto's picturesque landscape.

After Nanzen-ji, we made our way to Eikandō Temple, also known as Zenrin-ji. While Eikandō is famous for its autumn foliage, it still held a certain charm in the early spring. The temple is known for its unique statue of Amida Buddha, which, unlike most Buddha statues, looks over its left shoulder. Legend has it that the statue turned its head to look back at the followers who were lagging behind. I found this story particularly touching, a reminder to be mindful of others and to never leave anyone behind.


Discover the tranquility and breathtaking beauty of Eikandō Temple, a must-visit Buddhist retreat in the heart of Kyoto.

By this time, our stomachs were starting to rumble, so we headed to Hafuu for lunch. This restaurant, recommended to us by a local friend, is known for its exquisite meat dishes. Maximilian and I both ordered the signature steak, while Astrid opted for the hamburger steak. The food was simply divine. The beef was tender and flavorful, and the service was impeccable. It was a truly memorable culinary experience. The owner's family has been in the meat wholesaling business for a long time, which explains the high-quality steaks at reasonable prices.


Discover Hafuu in Kyoto: where premium Japanese beef meets culinary excellence in an elegant setting.

After lunch, we decided to do a bit of shopping at Kyoto Porta, an underground shopping mall located at Kyoto Station. I was hoping to find some unique souvenirs to bring back home to Munich. We explored the various shops, browsing through traditional crafts, sweets, and clothing. Astrid was particularly excited about the souvenir shops, where she picked out a small trinket for herself and a few gifts for her friends back home. I managed to find a beautiful silk scarf for my mother and a set of handcrafted chopsticks for Maximilian.


Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Kyoto Porta, where tradition meets modernity in a delightful blend of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO for dinner. This restaurant, housed in a former residence of a renowned Japanese painter, offered a truly unique dining experience. The atmosphere was elegant and refined, and the food was simply outstanding. We enjoyed a delicious Italian meal, savoring each and every bite. The service was attentive and personalized, making us feel like honored guests.


Discover the perfect blend of Italian culinary artistry and traditional Japanese ambiance at The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Gion district, Yasaka Shrine, and Hanamikoji Street. I'm particularly excited to wander through Gion, hoping to catch a glimpse of a geisha. We also plan to visit Bar K6 for a nightcap before heading back to the hotel. I'm sure it will be another day filled with unforgettable experiences.

Today was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing famous sights, but about immersing oneself in the local culture and connecting with the people and places we encounter along the way. It's about finding serenity in the midst of chaos, and about creating memories that will last a lifetime.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of Kyoto. It's a city that has captured my heart, and I know that I will carry its spirit with me long after we have left its ancient streets.

And now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure. Goodnight from Kyoto!