Family Adventure in Kyoto: Exploring Culture and Nature

Arashiyama's Winter Embrace

Today, Kyoto unveiled another layer of its captivating charm. Our family ventured into Arashiyama, a district famed for its natural beauty. As a mobile app developer specializing in tourism, I'm always on the lookout for experiences that blend culture, nature, and a touch of the unexpected. Arashiyama certainly delivered, even in the heart of winter.

Our day began with breakfast at The Cellar Kyoto. It was a cozy start to a day promising exploration and wonder. The aroma of freshly baked goods and strong coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our family adventure. Mateo, of course, was particularly excited, his little eyes wide with anticipation for what the day would bring. Klara and I savored the moment, knowing how precious these family travel experiences are.

After breakfast, we hopped on a train headed to Arashiyama. The journey itself was a treat, watching the city give way to the more rural landscapes surrounding Kyoto. Mateo was glued to the window, pointing out every little detail that caught his eye – a temple roof peeking through the trees, a farmer tending to his winter crops. It's these simple moments of shared wonder that make traveling with family so rewarding.

As we stepped off the train, the crisp winter air greeted us, a refreshing change from the warmer confines of the hotel. Arashiyama in January is a study in contrasts – the stark, bare trees against the vibrant greens of the bamboo, the quiet stillness punctuated by the occasional rush of the Hozugawa River. It's a landscape that invites contemplation, a feeling I always welcome amidst the hustle of daily life. I made sure we all had our warm clothing, as I had packed, but I was kicking myself for forgetting the travel adapter.

Our first stop was the famed Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Walking beneath the towering stalks was like entering another world. The sunlight filtered through the bamboo, casting an ethereal glow on the path. Even with other tourists around, there was a sense of tranquility, a feeling of being enveloped by nature's grandeur. Mateo was fascinated, running his hands along the cool, smooth bamboo, his laughter echoing through the grove. I tried to capture the moment with my camera, hoping to preserve the feeling of awe and wonder for years to come. Klara, ever the architect, was captivated by the way the bamboo created natural architectural forms, discussing the grove's structure and design with Mateo. I am sure she was already thinking of ways to incorporate it into her sustainable housing projects.


Discover the serene beauty of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, a tranquil escape filled with towering bamboo groves and enchanting pathways.

The quiet dignity and solemn beauty of winter in Arashiyama is unmatched by any other season.

Leaving the Bamboo Grove, we made our way to Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple's Sogenchi Garden was a masterpiece of landscape design, even in its winter guise. The carefully placed rocks, the meticulously raked gravel, the ancient trees – all spoke to a deep understanding of nature and a reverence for its beauty. We wandered through the garden, taking in the serene atmosphere, Mateo surprisingly quiet as he observed the carp swimming in the pond. I found myself reflecting on the temple's history, imagining the monks who had walked these paths centuries ago, seeking enlightenment and inner peace. Klara was particularly interested in the temple's architecture, pointing out the subtle details and design elements that reflected the Zen Buddhist principles of harmony and balance. It was a moment of shared appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship of the past.


Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. A cultural gem for every traveler.

Lunch was at Arash's Kitchen, a local spot recommended for its authentic Persian and Indian Halal cuisine. It was a welcome change of pace, the aroma of spices filling the air as we stepped inside. We feasted on flavorful kebabs, fragrant biryani, and freshly baked naan, Mateo surprisingly adventurous with his choices. The owner, Arash, greeted us warmly, sharing stories of his journey from Iran to Kyoto and his passion for sharing his culture through food. It was a reminder of the power of food to connect people, to bridge cultures, and to create lasting memories. We chatted with Arash about our travels, and he gave Mateo a special Persian sweet, which Mateo devoured in seconds.


Experience authentic Asian cuisine at Arash's Kitchen in Kyoto—a culinary delight for every traveler seeking unique flavors.

As the afternoon waned, we decided to treat ourselves to a drink at L'Escamoteur, a quirky bar known for its creative cocktails and magical atmosphere. The bar was tucked away in a quiet alley, its entrance marked by a discreet sign and a sense of mystery. Stepping inside was like entering another world, a dimly lit space filled with curiosities, vintage posters, and the sound of jazz music. The bartender, a charismatic Frenchman, greeted us with a flourish, launching into a dazzling display of mixology. Mateo was mesmerized, his eyes wide as the bartender juggled bottles, spun tales, and conjured up fantastical drinks. Klara and I savored our cocktails, marveling at the skill and artistry of the bartender, while Mateo sipped on a non-alcoholic concoction that tasted like a liquid rainbow. It was a perfect end to a day of exploration, a moment of shared joy and wonder.


Discover L'Escamoteur, Kyoto's enchanting cocktail bar where artistry meets mixology in a whimsical atmosphere. Unforgettable drinks await!

As we headed back to the hotel, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had shared today. Arashiyama had offered us a glimpse into Kyoto's soul, a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights. It was a day that had nourished our senses, sparked our curiosity, and strengthened our bond as a family.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Ninna-ji Temple. I'm particularly excited to see the Golden Pavilion, its shimmering reflection on the pond a sight I've long dreamed of witnessing. Mateo, of course, is already asking about the golden temple, his imagination running wild with tales of emperors and mythical creatures. Klara is looking forward to exploring Ninna-ji Temple, drawn to its serene gardens and historic architecture. I will make sure I have a travel adapter for all of our electronics!

As I sit here writing, the memories of the day swirling in my mind, I'm reminded of the power of travel to transform us, to open our hearts and minds to new possibilities. And as I look ahead to tomorrow's adventures, I know that Kyoto still has many more surprises in store for us.

I am also thinking of the Sagano Romantic Train Illumination, that runs through December. I wish we could stay longer to experience it. And I am slightly regretting not visiting Arashiyama earlier in the morning, to avoid the crowds. Next time I will know better!

For now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of discovery in this magical city. Good night from Kyoto!