Family Adventure in Kyoto: Exploring Japan's Cultural Heart

Whispers in the Bamboo

Today was a day of serene exploration, a gentle immersion into the natural beauty and spiritual heart of Kyoto. We ventured into Arashiyama, a district celebrated for its iconic bamboo forest and tranquil gardens. It was a journey that resonated deeply with my soul, reminding me of the quiet strength and simple elegance of nature, much like the peaceful shores of Hilo.


Our day began with breakfast at Kyoto cuisine Teramachi Yoshikura. It was a delightful introduction to the day, with a set meal crafted from fresh fish and seasonal local vegetables. I particularly enjoyed the Obanzai All-You-Can-Eat option, trying a variety of traditional Kyoto side dishes. Leila was fascinated by the different flavors and textures, while Greta appreciated the restaurant's focus on local ingredients. It reminded me of the farm-to-table movement back in Berlin, but with a uniquely Japanese twist. I made a mental note to try to recreate some of the Obanzai at home, bringing a little piece of Kyoto back to our Berlin kitchen.


Fueled and ready, we set off to Arashiyama. The air was crisp, carrying the promise of a day filled with discovery. As we approached the famed Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, a sense of anticipation bubbled within me. I had seen countless photos, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer majesty of standing amidst those towering stalks of bamboo.


The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest was truly breathtaking. Sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, casting an ethereal glow on the path below. The towering bamboo swayed gently in the breeze, creating a soothing, almost meditative atmosphere. Walking through the grove felt like stepping into another world, a realm of tranquility far removed from the bustling city. Leila was captivated, her eyes wide with wonder as she reached out to touch the cool, smooth surface of the bamboo. I snapped photos, trying to capture the essence of this magical place, but knew that no image could truly do it justice. It was an experience that had to be felt, breathed in, and absorbed.



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

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

Leaving the bamboo forest, we made our way to Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple, founded in 1339, is a testament to Kyoto's rich history and spiritual heritage. The Sogenchi Garden, designed by Muso Soseki, was a masterpiece of landscape design. The pond, with its carefully placed rocks and manicured trees, reflected the surrounding mountains, creating a sense of harmony and balance. Greta, with her curator's eye, was particularly impressed by the garden's integration with the natural landscape. Leila, on the other hand, was more interested in the koi swimming in the pond, their bright colors adding a splash of vibrancy to the serene setting. I found myself drawn to the quiet contemplation the garden inspired, a sense of peace washing over me as I gazed at the tranquil scene.



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.


Afterward, we explored the Okochi Sanso Garden, once the villa of the famed film actor Okochi Denjiro. This garden was a delightful surprise, offering a different perspective on Japanese landscape design. The villa itself was a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture, and the gardens were a testament to Okochi's artistic vision. We followed the winding paths, discovering hidden teahouses, serene shrines, and breathtaking viewpoints. The garden offered panoramic views of Kyoto, a sprawling tapestry of temples, rooftops, and distant mountains. As we reached the teahouse, we were treated to a cup of matcha and a traditional Japanese sweet, a perfect ending to our exploration of this hidden gem. The matcha, with its earthy flavor and vibrant green hue, was a welcome treat, and the sweet provided a burst of sugary energy.



Discover the serene beauty of Okochi Sanso Garden in Kyoto, a hidden gem blending nature, history, and culture in perfect harmony.


For lunch, we ventured to Arash's Kitchen. It was an unexpected find, a Persian and Indian Halal restaurant tucked away in Kyoto. The aromas of spices and grilling meats filled the air, a welcome change from the traditional Japanese cuisine we had been enjoying. We savored a variety of dishes, from flavorful kebabs to fragrant biryanis. Leila, surprisingly, loved the naan, happily tearing off pieces and dipping them in the various sauces. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with friendly staff who made us feel right at home. It was a reminder that even in a city as steeped in tradition as Kyoto, there is always room for diversity and culinary exploration.



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


In the late afternoon, we decided to do some shopping at Kyoto Avanti. This large shopping mall near Kyoto Station offered a wide variety of stores, from fashion boutiques to bookstores. Greta was keen to explore the clothing stores, while Leila was drawn to the manga and anime shops. I was simply happy to wander, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and observing the local shoppers. We picked up a few souvenirs, small reminders of our time in Kyoto, before heading back to our ryokan. It was a fun and lighthearted way to end the day, a glimpse into the modern side of Kyoto.



Discover Kyoto Avanti, the ultimate shopping destination in Kyoto, blending modern retail with traditional Japanese culture and dining.


For dinner, we decided to try Teppan Tavern Tenamonya. It was a small, intimate restaurant specializing in teppanyaki, a style of Japanese cuisine where food is cooked on a large iron griddle. The chefs were skilled and entertaining, creating a lively atmosphere as they prepared our meal. We savored a variety of dishes, from grilled vegetables to succulent meats, all cooked to perfection on the teppan. The flavors were bold and satisfying, a perfect complement to the day's earlier experiences. The warmth of the teppan and the friendly banter of the chefs created a sense of camaraderie, making it a memorable dining experience.



Experience authentic teppanyaki at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, Kyoto's premier destination for Japanese cuisine in a lively izakaya setting.


As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of Arashiyama. It was a day of exploration, discovery, and connection, a day that deepened our appreciation for Japanese culture and natural beauty. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, Tōfuku-ji Temple, and Sanjūsangendō Temple. I'm particularly excited to see the thousands of vibrant red torii gates at Fushimi Inari, a sight I've long dreamt of experiencing. Before that, however, we'll be having breakfast at Gion Nanba. I can't wait to see what culinary delights await us there.


Today, as the cherry blossoms continue their delicate dance, I'm reminded of a Hawaiian saying: *“I ka wā ma mua, i ka wā ma hope.”* It means, “That which is in front is also behind.” It speaks to the interconnectedness of our past, present, and future, a concept that resonates deeply within me as I explore this ancient city with my family. Good night from Kyoto!