Family Adventure in Kyoto: Exploring Culture and Nature

A Fond Farewell to Kyoto

As our Kyoto adventure neared its end, I felt a mix of contentment and a tinge of sadness. This trip with Klara and Mateo had been everything I'd hoped for and more – a deep dive into Japanese culture, a feast for the senses, and a chance to create lasting memories with my family. Today was all about soaking in the last drops of Kyoto's magic before our journey back to Potsdam.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Teppanyaki Minami, right in our hotel. I always appreciate a good breakfast, especially when I know it's going to be a long day of exploring. Mateo, of course, was all about the fluffy pancakes, while Klara and I opted for a more traditional Japanese breakfast set. Fuelled up and ready to go, we set out for Tōfuku-ji Temple.


Experience authentic teppanyaki at Teppanyaki Minami in Osaka—where culinary artistry meets breathtaking city views.

Tōfuku-ji Temple was founded in 1236, and its name comes from Todai-ji and Kofuku-ji temples [https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3901.html]. It was only one stop away from Kyoto station which made it very easy to get to [https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3901.html].


Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Tōfuku-ji Temple, a must-visit Buddhist landmark in Kyoto.

Zen and Serenity at Tōfuku-ji Temple

Visiting Tōfuku-ji Temple was like stepping into a world of tranquility. The crisp January air and the quiet murmur of monks sweeping the temple grounds set a peaceful tone. Despite being a popular spot, especially for its autumn foliage, the temple exuded a sense of calm that I found incredibly soothing. Mateo, surprisingly, was also captivated by the serene atmosphere, perhaps sensing the reverence that permeated the air.

The Sanmon Gate, a towering structure dating back to 1425, was particularly impressive. As the oldest and largest Zen temple gate in Japan, it stood as a testament to the enduring beauty of traditional Japanese architecture. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as I gazed up at its intricate details, imagining the countless monks who had passed through its gates over the centuries. The Hondo, rebuilt in 1934, was also a sight to behold. Though we could only view it from the outside, the central statue of the historical Buddha was radiant.

The beauty of a place is not just in what you see, but in how it makes you feel.

The gardens at Tōfuku-ji were a highlight for me. Even in the midst of winter, their carefully designed landscapes evoked a sense of harmony and balance. The Zen gardens, with their meticulously raked gravel and strategically placed rocks, invited contemplation and reflection. Klara, with her architect's eye, appreciated the seamless integration of nature and design, while Mateo enjoyed exploring the winding paths and discovering hidden corners.

All Aboard! Exploring the Kyoto Railway Museum

Discover the rich history of railways at the Kyoto Railway Museum, a family-friendly attraction in the heart of Kyoto showcasing trains and interactive exhibits.

After our serene temple visit, we switched gears and headed to the Kyoto Railway Museum. As a mobile app developer specializing in tourism apps, I have a soft spot for transportation history, and I was excited to share this passion with Mateo. The museum, one of Japan's largest, was a train lover's paradise, showcasing a vast collection of locomotives, Shinkansen bullet trains, and railway memorabilia. Mateo was instantly enthralled, his eyes wide with wonder as he took in the sheer scale of the exhibits.

We spent hours exploring the museum's three floors, marveling at the engineering feats of the past and learning about the evolution of Japan's railway system. Mateo's favorite part was climbing aboard the steam locomotives and pretending to be a train conductor. I, on the other hand, was fascinated by the interactive exhibits, which allowed us to experience what it was like to operate a train and manage a railway network.

The museum also had a special exhibition dedicated to Thomas the Tank Engine, celebrating the 80th anniversary of the Railway Series. Mateo, a big Thomas fan, was ecstatic to see his favorite characters come to life. We explored the history of the series, watched clips from the TV show, and even got to take photos with Thomas and his friends. It was a delightful surprise and a perfect way to end our museum visit.

A Culinary Farewell

After a day of temples and trains, our stomachs were rumbling, so we headed to Osara to Spoon for lunch. Finding it tucked away in a small street added to its charm. The restaurant's concept, loving both plates (osara) and spoons, suggested a fusion of flavors and styles that intrigued us. The menu offered a variety of international dishes with a creative twist. Klara opted for a fusion dish that combined Japanese and European flavors, while Mateo stuck with a classic burger and fries. I decided to try their specialty, a seafood paella with a Japanese twist, and it was absolutely delicious.


Experience the perfect fusion of traditional and modern Japanese cuisine at Osara to Spoon in Kyoto's Shimogyo Ward.

For our final dinner in Kyoto, we chose Hanasaki, a traditional Kyoto cuisine restaurant in the Gion district. The restaurant was located in a charming old townhouse, and the atmosphere was intimate and refined. We were seated in a private room with tatami mats, which added to the authenticity of the experience. Hanasaki is known for using seasonal ingredients and preparing dishes with meticulous care. Each course was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly flavorful. We savored every bite, appreciating the delicate balance of flavors and the artistry of the presentation.


Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Hanasaki in Kyoto - where tradition meets artistry in every delicious dish.

The Hana Kaiseki and Mai Kaiseki are popular among foreigners, with the chef preparing charcoal-grilled Kyoto beef steaks in front of the guests [https://vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com/grounding-api-redirect/AWQVqAJw3oiAJM93-5eqHHMF_SF6v0q2MHDfi7gwvcXzSGVGhIDd0OhPTZp1oWEBZZrEnhLb9jPoPaWkzS2LDOEKPA7QDBgXnKMN47gp1Nd0l7wrwk2eIttb7O1hMzBXTeHeTw==].

To cap off our Kyoto adventure, I managed to sneak out for a nightcap at The Roots of all evil., a standing gin bar near Kyoto Station. As a fan of unique cocktail experiences, I couldn't resist checking it out. The bar had a cool, edgy vibe, with a dimly lit interior and a creative menu of gin-based cocktails. I tried a few different concoctions, each more inventive than the last, and chatted with the friendly bartenders about their passion for gin. It was the perfect way to end our trip, a final toast to the unforgettable memories we had made in Kyoto.


Discover a vibrant bar in Kyoto offering a unique blend of cocktails and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Homeward Bound

As I sit here writing this, back in our cozy hotel room, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the incredible experiences we've had in Kyoto. From the vibrant temples and serene gardens to the bustling markets and delicious cuisine, this city has captured my heart in a way I never expected. Sharing this journey with Klara and Mateo has made it all the more special, creating memories that we will cherish for years to come. I am looking forward to our next adventure, wherever that may be. Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Potsdam, carrying with us the spirit of Kyoto and a longing to return someday.

For now, it's time to say sayōnara to Kyoto, but I know that a part of me will always remain here, wandering through the bamboo groves, savoring the taste of matcha, and basking in the warmth of Japanese hospitality.