Family Adventure in Kyoto: Exploring Japan's Cultural Heart

All Aboard the Time Machine!

Today was a day of delightful discoveries and adventures, blending the magic of cinema with the rich history of Japan's railways. Kyoto continues to surprise us with its ability to seamlessly weave together tradition and innovation, offering something for everyone in the family. From samurai showdowns to high-speed trains, our Tuesday in Kyoto was nothing short of spectacular.

Our day began with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Nakamura. I opted for the Eggs Benedict Gratin with Yuzu and Miso Flavored Hollandaise Sauce. What a great way to start the day! The blend of familiar and local flavors was an absolute delight.


Experience the elegance of kaiseki at Nakamura in Kyoto—a fine dining destination celebrating seasonal Japanese cuisine.

With our bellies full and excitement levels high, we headed to the Kyoto Railway Museum. Leila is a big fan of trains, so I knew this would be a hit, and it definitely didn't disappoint. The museum is a fantastic tribute to Japan's railway history, showcasing everything from vintage steam locomotives to the sleek Shinkansen bullet trains. It's amazing to see the evolution of rail transport and the impact it had on the country.


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.

Leila was absolutely thrilled to climb aboard the retired Shinkansen and explore the different carriages. Greta and I enjoyed learning about the engineering marvels and the stories behind each train. We even got a chance to try out a Shinkansen driving simulator, which was a fun and surprisingly challenging experience. The museum also has a great collection of historical displays, offering insights into the cultural and technological advancements that shaped Japan's railway system. I was amazed to learn that the bullet train has been around since 1964!

Sometimes, the best journeys are the ones that take you back in time, allowing you to appreciate the progress and innovation that have shaped our world.

One of the highlights was the Roundhouse, a semi-circular building constructed in 1914 that houses an impressive assortment of trains. It felt like stepping back in time as we wandered through the exhibits, imagining the golden age of steam locomotives. We also spent some time on the Sky Terrace, which offered fantastic views of the active tracks leading into Kyoto Station. It was mesmerizing to watch the Shinkansen and local trains whizzing by.

After immersing ourselves in the world of trains, we were ready for a change of pace, so we headed to Toei Kyoto Studio Park. This place is a unique combination of a working film studio and a theme park, offering a fascinating glimpse into the world of Japanese cinema. It's like stepping onto a movie set, with meticulously recreated Edo-period streets and buildings.


Discover the enchantment of Japanese cinema at Toei Kyoto Studio Park, where film sets and interactive experiences come together for endless fun.

The park is a celebration of jidaigeki, the historical period dramas that are a staple of Japanese film and television. We watched a live ninja show, complete with impressive acrobatics and sword fights. Leila was captivated by the ninjas' stealth and agility, while Greta and I appreciated the artistry and skill of the performers. I couldn't help but think how Kai would've enjoyed this.

We also explored the various attractions, including a ninja mystery house and an optical illusion maze, which were both fun and challenging. Leila particularly enjoyed the haunted house, though I must admit, it was a bit too spooky for me! It was interesting to see how the park seamlessly blends traditional Japanese culture with modern entertainment.

For lunch, we enjoyed a casual meal at Ajikyu. This traditional tavern offered a cozy atmosphere and delicious, authentic Japanese dishes. It was the perfect spot to recharge before continuing our cinematic adventure.


Discover authentic Japanese dining at Ajikyu in Kyoto—where tradition meets exquisite culinary artistry.

Before leaving Toei Kyoto Studio Park, we stopped by the Daimaru Kyoto Store for a bit of shopping. This department store is a treasure trove of local crafts, souvenirs, and delicious treats. We picked up some traditional Japanese sweets and a few small gifts for friends back in Berlin.


Explore the heart of Kyoto shopping at Daimaru Kyoto Store, where tradition meets modernity in a vibrant department store experience.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Masayoshi Japanese Dining for dinner. The restaurant is located in a beautifully renovated 150-year-old machiya, a traditional Kyoto townhouse. We savored carefully selected Japanese black beef sukiyaki in a semi-private room. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with exploration and discovery.


Experience authentic Japanese steakhouse dining at Masayoshi in Kyoto—where tradition meets culinary excellence.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Kyoto's cultural side, starting with a visit to the Kyoto International Manga Museum. Leila is really into manga, so I'm sure she'll love it. Afterwards, we'll take a stroll along the Philosopher's Path and visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion). I'm looking forward to another day of adventure and creating lasting memories with my family.

Reflecting on our day, I'm reminded of something my grandpa used to say back in Hilo: *E hele mai, e ʻimi i ka ʻike.* It means Come, seek knowledge. Today, we not only had fun but also learned a great deal about Japanese history, culture, and cinema. I'm grateful for these opportunities to share new experiences with my family and broaden our horizons.

Mahalo nui, Kyoto, for another unforgettable day! I wonder what tomorrow will bring.