Family Adventure in Kyoto: Exploring Japan's Cultural Heart

Finding Peace in Kyoto's Gardens

Today was a beautiful blend of serene contemplation and delightful indulgence here in Kyoto. As our trip nears its end, we wanted to soak in as much of the city's tranquil beauty as possible, and today's itinerary, carefully curated, promised just that. It was a day of exploring stunning gardens and savoring incredible meals, a perfect combination for a family seeking both cultural enrichment and delicious memories.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at MUGHAL Indian Restaurant & Bar. I know, I know, Indian food in Japan? But hear me out! Having lived in Berlin for a while, Greta and I have come to appreciate a good curry, and Leila is always game for trying new things. The reviews online were promising, touting it as a fusion of Indian flavors with Japanese influences. I was intrigued by the seafood curry prepared with squid ink and fish tikka with marinated fatty tuna. While it felt a little odd to start our day with Indian cuisine in the heart of Japan, it was a welcome change of pace, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed their meal. It's funny how sometimes the best travel experiences come from the unexpected detours.


Experience the vibrant flavors of India at Mughal Indian Restaurant & Bar in Kyoto – a haven for food lovers seeking authentic South Asian cuisine.
With our bellies full, we set off to Nanzen-ji Temple. The temple grounds were expansive, and the main complex was surrounded by smaller subtemples. I remember reading that Nanzen-ji has played a significant part in popularizing Zen Buddhism in Kyoto. The towering Sanmon Gate was impressive, a testament to the temple's rich history. Leila was fascinated by the intricate details of the wooden structure, and Greta, with her curator's eye, appreciated the temple's architecture. We wandered through the serene gardens, taking in the peaceful atmosphere. The temple was built in 1291 by Emperor Kameyama as a retirement home, and you could definitely feel the sense of tranquility that permeated the air.


Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Nanzen-ji Temple, a stunning Buddhist sanctuary nestled in the heart of Kyoto's natural landscape.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not only in its famous landmarks but also in the quiet moments of discovery and reflection.

One of the highlights of Nanzen-ji was the Suirokaku, an ancient canal bridge made of red bricks. The bridge transported water from Lake Biwa to Kyoto, and it was a fascinating example of engineering ingenuity. Leila was particularly intrigued by the aqueduct, and we spent some time explaining its history and purpose to her. It was a great opportunity to teach her about the importance of water management and the innovative solutions that people have developed over the centuries. I was aware of the cherry blossom festival, Oka-sai, that takes place every year since 985, but unfortunately we will miss it.

After Nanzen-ji, we made our way to Murin-an Garden, a short walk away. This garden was a true hidden gem, tucked away in a quiet corner of the city. Murin-an was the garden villa of Aritomo Yamagata, a statesman during the Meiji and Taisho periods. The garden was designed by Jihei Owaga VII, and it was a beautiful example of a modern Japanese garden with a Western-style home in the center. As we entered, we were greeted by the gentle sound of a stream, a diversion from the canal built between Kyoto and Lake Biwa. The landscape felt like a painting, with lush moss carpets, meticulously manicured trees, and the Higashiyama mountains providing a stunning backdrop.


Experience the serene beauty of Murinan Garden in Kyoto, a historical retreat blending nature and culture with a delightful café.
Greta was particularly interested in the Western-style building, which housed a small exhibition on gardening techniques. She also pointed out that officers of the Japanese Imperial army, statesmen and diplomats like Aritomo Yamagata, Hirobumi Ito, Taro Katsura and Jutaro Komura, met in council on April 21st, 1903, to discuss Japan's foreign policies, which would lead to the Russo-Japanese war the next year. Leila enjoyed exploring the tea house, a small but charming structure that offered a perfect view of the garden. I read online that Murin-an is considered a non-photogenic garden, and even the best pictures are unable to capture this unreal beauty. I have to say, I agree. It's something you have to experience in person to truly appreciate.

Our final garden of the day was Shōsei-en Garden, located near Kyoto Station. This garden, a detached property of Higashi Honganji Temple, was a peaceful green island amidst the urban landscape. It was built in 1641 when Iemitsu Tokugawa donated the land, and it was designed by Jozan Ishikawa. As we strolled along the circular path around the Ingetsu-chi pond, we admired the beautiful flowers and the various buildings dotted around the garden. Leila loved crossing the wooden bridges and spotting the koi fish in the pond. Shōsei-en felt like a tranquil oasis, a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.


Experience the serene beauty of Shōsei-en Garden in Kyoto, a tranquil oasis showcasing traditional Japanese landscape design and seasonal flora.
For lunch, we decided to try Teppanyaki Minami. I wanted to experience authentic Teppanyaki. The chef's skill and precision were mesmerizing. Each course was prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the flavors were simply divine. Leila was especially impressed with the chef's knife skills, and she peppered him with questions about his techniques. The staff was attentive and friendly, making our dining experience even more enjoyable. I remember eating Teppanyaki back in Hilo, but this was a completely different experience.


Experience authentic teppanyaki at Teppanyaki Minami in Osaka—where culinary artistry meets breathtaking city views.
As evening approached, we headed to Kakyo for dinner. This restaurant was recommended for its modern take on Japanese cuisine, blending traditional flavors with a French touch. The chef, Tomohito Chujo, values the changing seasons of Kyoto and offers Omakase courses using seasonal ingredients. The presentation of each dish was a work of art, appealing to all five senses. Greta, with her sophisticated palate, appreciated the chef's attention to detail and the harmonious pairing of sake and wine. Leila, surprisingly, loved the beef dish. This was definitely an experience we'd remember.


Experience exquisite kaiseki cuisine at Kakyo, where tradition meets creativity in the heart of Kyoto's historic Higashiyama Ward.
Finally, to cap off the night, we stopped by Concrete Bar. I found the bar online. Tucked away in a small corridor, the bar had a cool, intimate vibe. The drinks were expertly crafted, and the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming. It was the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of exploring. I chatted with the bartender, who shared some interesting stories about Kyoto's nightlife scene. Greta enjoyed a glass of sake, while I opted for a Japanese whiskey. It was a great way to end our day, soaking in the local atmosphere.


Discover the dynamic nightlife of Kyoto at Concrete Bar, where cocktails flow and friendships blossom in a vibrant atmosphere.
Tomorrow, we plan to explore Gion Corner and Hanamikoji Street, hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive geishas. We'll also visit Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto's Kitchen, to sample some local delicacies. I'm particularly excited about experiencing the traditional arts at Gion Corner and wandering through the historic streets of Hanamikoji. It's hard to believe that our trip is coming to an end. Kyoto has captured our hearts with its beauty, culture, and culinary delights. I am trying to soak in as much as I can before we head back to Berlin. Mahalo, Kyoto, for the memories!

The contrast between Berlin and Kyoto is stark, yet both cities offer unique experiences that enrich our lives. In Berlin, I find myself immersed in a vibrant, modern culture, surrounded by history and art. Here in Kyoto, I feel a connection to ancient traditions, a sense of peace that's hard to find in the bustling streets of Berlin. This trip has reminded me of the importance of balance, of seeking out both the familiar and the new. I am glad that my family is experiencing Kyoto with me. I think that Leila is learning a lot about Japanese culture, and seeing how much she is enjoying the trip makes it even more special for me. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, as we continue our exploration of this magical city.