Cultural Immersion in Kyoto: A Family Adventure

Whispers of the Bamboo Forest

Today was nothing short of magical! Hans and I ventured into the enchanting world of Arashiyama, a district on the western outskirts of Kyoto. As a software developer who spends most of her days coding, stepping into this natural landscape felt like entering a different dimension. The crisp winter air, the promise of serene temples, and the allure of the iconic bamboo forest—it was exactly the kind of escape my soul needed. Plus, I was excited to put my photography skills to the test, hoping to capture the unique beauty of Kyoto in February.

Our day began early, with a hearty breakfast at Nishikawa. I decided to try their traditional Japanese breakfast set. It was a delightful assortment of small dishes, each bursting with flavor. Hans opted for something similar, and we both savored every bite, fueling up for the day's adventures. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes back in Heidelberg; perhaps I could infuse a little Kyoto into our everyday lives.

With our appetites satisfied, we made our way to the famed Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. As we approached, the towering stalks of bamboo created a mesmerizing canopy overhead. Even in the winter, the forest held a vibrant, almost otherworldly beauty. The sunlight filtered through the bamboo, casting dappled shadows on the path. It was chilly, and I was glad I'd packed my scarf and gloves. I even saw a few tourists buying hats and gloves at a shop near the entrance [Maybe I should have bought an extra pair].


Experience the tranquility of Kyoto's Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where towering bamboo stalks create a serene escape in nature's embrace.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

We strolled through the grove, hand in hand, marveling at the sheer height and density of the bamboo. The wind rustled through the stalks, creating a soothing, almost meditative sound. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, but no photograph could truly convey the feeling of being surrounded by such natural grandeur. It reminded me of the forests back in Denmark, but with an exotic twist. I even managed to snap a shot that I think will look great framed in our living room in Heidelberg.

Leaving the bamboo forest, we headed towards Tenryu-ji, a Zen temple nestled in the heart of Arashiyama. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's easy to see why. The gardens were meticulously manicured, with raked gravel, moss-covered stones, and perfectly pruned trees. Even in the winter, the gardens exuded a sense of tranquility and harmony. Hans, with his architect's eye, was particularly impressed by the temple's design and layout. We wandered through the various halls and gardens, taking in the serene atmosphere and marveling at the temple's intricate details.


Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto, Japan.

After our visit to Tenryu-ji, we strolled towards the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. The bridge spans the Katsura River, and it's a popular spot for photos and sightseeing. As we walked along the bridge, we took in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The river flowed gently beneath us, and the air was crisp and clean. I imagined how beautiful this place must be in the spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, or in the autumn, when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold. Still, the winter landscape had a charm of its own, with the snow-dusted mountains providing a stunning backdrop.


Discover the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge in Kyoto, where breathtaking views and rich history converge amidst the beauty of nature.

For lunch, we decided to try Arash's Kitchen, a local restaurant that came highly recommended. It turned out to be a delightful surprise. The restaurant served a fusion of Persian and Indian cuisine, and the aromas wafting from the kitchen were simply irresistible. I opted for a flavorful kebab platter, while Hans chose a hearty curry. The food was delicious, and the service was warm and welcoming. It reminded me of some of the cozy, family-run restaurants we've discovered in our travels through Europe. We chatted with the owner, Arash, who shared his story of coming to Kyoto and opening his restaurant. It was a reminder that even in a place as steeped in tradition as Kyoto, there's always room for new influences and flavors.


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

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to treat ourselves to a drink at L'Escamoteur, a bar known for its magical atmosphere and creative cocktails. The bar was small and intimate, with a dimly lit interior and a quirky, eclectic decor. The bartender, a Frenchman with a flair for showmanship, mixed us up some inventive concoctions. Mine was a gin-based cocktail with a hint of yuzu, while Hans opted for a smoky whiskey drink. As we sipped our drinks, we watched in amazement as the bartender performed a few magic tricks. It was a fun and unexpected way to end our day in Arashiyama.


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

Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.

For dinner, we had reservations at THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO｜Restaurant, a restaurant housed in a beautifully restored traditional building. The restaurant served Italian cuisine with a Japanese twist, and the ambiance was elegant and refined. We started with a selection of appetizers, each a work of art in its own right. For our main courses, I chose a pasta dish with locally sourced vegetables, while Hans opted for a grilled meat dish. The food was exquisite, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect way to celebrate our day of exploration and discovery.


Discover the perfect blend of Italian culinary artistry and traditional Japanese ambiance at The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto.

As we walked back to our guesthouse, Matsui Bekkan Hanakanzashi, the streets of Kyoto were quiet and peaceful. The air was crisp, and the stars twinkled overhead. I felt a sense of contentment and gratitude for the experiences we had shared today. Arashiyama had exceeded all of my expectations, and I knew that this was a day we would cherish for years to come.


Experience the charm of Kyoto at Matsui Bekkan Hanakanzashi, a guest house offering comfort, relaxation, and local culture just steps from key attractions.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), Ryoan-ji (famous for its rock garden), and Ninna-ji Temple. It's going to be another day filled with temples, gardens, and cultural immersion. I am also hoping to do some shopping at the Daimaru Kyoto Store.

I am also excited about the Kyoto Marathon taking place today! It's wonderful to see the city so vibrant and active, although I am glad we planned our Arashiyama visit to avoid the crowds closer to the marathon route. Perhaps next time, I will consider participating myself.

Until then, happy travels!