Family Adventure in Kyoto: Exploring Culture and Nature

Kyoto: A Day of Vermilion and Serenity

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Our Kyoto adventure has officially begun, and what a start it has been! Today was all about immersing ourselves in the rich tapestry of this ancient city, a place where history whispers from every corner and vibrant traditions come alive. From the iconic vermilion gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine (Thousand Torii Gates), to the tranquil waters of Kiyomizu-dera, Kyoto has already captured our hearts.


Explore the enchanting Fushimi Inari Shrine, home to thousands of vibrant torii gates, where tradition and breathtaking beauty await every visitor.

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The journey from Osaka's Kansai International Airport to Kyoto was smooth and efficient, the train whisking us through the picturesque Japanese countryside. Mateo was especially excited, his nose pressed against the window as we sped past quaint towns and meticulously maintained rice fields. Klara and I were equally captivated, eager to begin exploring a city we've long dreamed of visiting. After checking into the Hotel Grand Bach Select Kyoto, a place that beautifully blends modern comfort with traditional aesthetics, we set off to explore. I must say, after having worked on so many tourism apps, it feels good to be on the other side and experience things firsthand.


Experience the serene elegance of Hotel Grand Bach Select Kyoto, where traditional charm meets modern convenience in the heart of the city.

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Our first stop: the legendary Fushimi Inari Taisha. The approach to the shrine was already bustling with activity, a vibrant mix of locals and tourists all eager to experience this iconic landmark. The air was crisp, a typical January chill that invigorated the senses. As we walked through the seemingly endless tunnel of vermilion torii gates, I felt a sense of awe and wonder. Each gate, donated by individuals and companies, is inscribed with their names, a testament to their devotion and a vibrant expression of gratitude.
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Navigating the crowds was a bit of a challenge, but Mateo was thrilled, his little legs carrying him forward with surprising energy. He was fascinated by the fox statues, Inari's messengers, pointing out their different expressions and poses. Klara, ever the architect, was captivated by the intricate details of the shrine's architecture, noting the seamless blend of natural elements and human craftsmanship. I tried to capture the essence of the experience through my lens, hoping to convey the sheer scale and spiritual significance of this place.
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To walk through the seemingly endless tunnel of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari is to walk through a corridor of dreams, where the past and present converge in a vibrant dance of faith and gratitude.

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After exploring Fushimi Inari, our stomachs started to rumble, reminding us it was time for breakfast. We headed to AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO, a vegan restaurant I had discovered during my research. Knowing Klara's and my commitment to sustainable living and ethical eating, I knew this would be a perfect spot. Finding a completely vegan restaurant in Kyoto felt like a small victory for us. The restaurant was tucked away on a quiet backstreet, offering a serene escape from the bustling city. We indulged in their heavenly vegan pancakes, a delightful treat that even Mateo, a notoriously picky eater, devoured with gusto. It was a perfect start to the day, fueling us for more adventures.


Discover exquisite vegan delights at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO – where culinary creativity meets sustainable living.

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Next on our itinerary was Kiyomizu-dera, another of Kyoto's iconic temples. The walk up to the temple was an experience in itself, a charming ascent through narrow streets lined with traditional shops selling everything from handcrafted ceramics to local sweets. The energy was palpable, a mix of excitement and reverence that permeated the air. I picked up a few small trinkets at Kyoto Crafts Store—a couple of beautifully crafted wooden toys for Mateo and a delicate ceramic tea cup for Klara.


Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto, where culture and nature harmoniously blend.

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As we approached Kiyomizu-dera, the panoramic view of Kyoto unfolded before us, a breathtaking vista of rooftops and rolling hills. The temple itself was magnificent, its wooden stage jutting out dramatically from the hillside, offering an unparalleled vantage point. We took our time exploring the various halls and shrines, each with its own unique charm and history. The winter air was crisp and clean, adding to the sense of serenity and peace.
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One of the highlights was Otowa Waterfall, where we joined the throngs of visitors lining up to drink from the sacred waters. Each stream is said to offer different benefits – longevity, success in studies, and a happy love life. Mateo, of course, wanted to try all three, giggling as the cool water trickled down his chin. I opted for the longevity stream, hoping to have many more years of adventures with my family.
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For lunch, we ventured to Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store, drawn in by the promise of authentic tonkatsu. The restaurant was a bit hidden, tucked away in a small alley, but the aroma of fried pork cutlets led us right to its door. We were not disappointed. The tonkatsu was crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, a true culinary delight. Mateo, surprisingly, loved it, devouring his portion with gusto.


Savor the best tonkatsu in Kyoto at Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store—where tradition meets flavor.

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As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Gion, Kyoto's geisha district, hoping to catch a glimpse of these elusive figures. While we didn't spot any geishas, the atmosphere of Gion was enchanting, its narrow streets and traditional wooden machiya houses transporting us back in time. We wandered through the lantern-lit alleys, soaking in the ambiance and imagining what life must have been like centuries ago.
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For dinner, we indulged in a traditional Kaiseki experience at Gion Nanba. The restaurant was small and intimate, with only a few tables, creating a sense of exclusivity. The meal was a culinary journey, each course a delicate work of art, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients. The flavors were subtle yet complex, a testament to the chef's skill and artistry. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.


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

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As I sit here now, writing this blog post from the comfort of our hotel room, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude. Kyoto has exceeded all my expectations, captivating me with its beauty, history, and culture. It's a city that truly nourishes the soul.
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Before drifting off to sleep, I glanced at our itinerary for tomorrow. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, and a magical evening at L'Escamoteur bar await. I can't wait to see what adventures tomorrow brings! Mateo is already excited about the bamboo forest, and Klara is eager to explore the Zen gardens of Tenryu-ji. As for me, I'm simply looking forward to immersing myself further in the wonders of Kyoto, capturing every moment through my lens and sharing it with you all.
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Good night from Kyoto!
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