Cultural Immersion in Kyoto: A Family Adventure

Golden Reflections, Peaceful Stones

Today was a day of pure immersion in Kyoto's serene beauty. It's amazing how much history and tranquility can be packed into a single day. Hans and I set out with a plan to visit three of Kyoto's most iconic temples, and each one offered a unique perspective on Japanese culture and spirituality. From shimmering gold to minimalist Zen gardens, it was a feast for the senses and a balm for the soul. I even managed to practice my conversational German with a lovely couple from Munich at one of the temples!

Our first stop was the famed Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. It was as breathtaking as all the postcards promised. The sun was shining, and the reflection of the golden structure on the pond was simply mesmerizing. It felt like stepping into a painting, a perfect blend of nature and human artistry. I learned that Kinkaku-ji was originally built as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu in 1397. After his death, it was converted into a Zen Buddhist temple. The top two floors of the pavilion are covered in gold leaf, which is said to have been intended to mitigate any pollution or negative thoughts towards death. The attention to detail was incredible, and I spent ages just wandering around the pond, taking in the views from every angle.


Discover the serene beauty of Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto's stunning Golden Pavilion, where rich history meets breathtaking architecture in a tranquil garden setting.

In stillness lies the greatest action; in silence, the loudest revelation.

After Kinkaku-ji, we headed to Ryoan-ji, a stark contrast to the opulence of the Golden Pavilion. Ryoan-ji is famous for its Zen garden, a minimalist landscape of fifteen rocks arranged on a bed of white gravel. It's deceptively simple, yet profoundly thought-provoking. As I sat on the veranda, gazing at the garden, I tried to decipher its meaning. Some say it represents islands in a sea, others a tigress and her cubs crossing a river. But ultimately, the meaning is up to the individual viewer. I found myself lost in contemplation, my mind gradually quieting as I focused on the arrangement of the stones and the patterns in the gravel. It was a welcome moment of peace and introspection.


Discover the serene beauty of Ryōan-ji, Kyoto's iconic Zen temple with a stunning rock garden and tranquil surroundings, perfect for reflection and peace.

I discovered that the garden's origins and creator remain shrouded in mystery, adding to its allure. The fifteen stones are arranged in such a way that one is always hidden from view, no matter where you stand. It's said to represent the idea that no one is perfect, and our perspective is always limited. It's these little details that make Japanese gardens so fascinating.

For lunch, we stopped at Komefuku, a charming restaurant that Hans had found online. It turned out to be a fantastic choice! We enjoyed a delicious and affordable lunch set of tempura and sushi. The tempura was perfectly crispy and the sushi was incredibly fresh. I even tried to order in Japanese, and the staff were very patient with my attempts. It's these little interactions that make traveling so rewarding.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Komefuku in Kyoto, renowned for its fresh seafood and exquisite tempura dishes.

Our final stop for the day was Ninna-ji Temple. Founded in 888 CE by Emperor Uda, this World Heritage Site has a rich imperial history. What struck me most was the serene beauty and traditional architecture. It's the head temple of the Omuro School of Shingon Buddhism. The temple complex includes a stunning five-story pagoda and beautifully painted screen walls. The temple was rebuilt in the 17th century, and several buildings were relocated from the Imperial Palace. As we wandered through the walled garden, I felt a sense of calm wash over me. It was the perfect way to end our day of temple hopping.


Experience the serene beauty of Ninna-ji Temple in Kyoto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history and culture.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we made a quick stop at Daimaru Kyoto Store. I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs for friends and family back home. The store had everything from high-end fashion to local crafts, but I was most impressed by the food floor. It was a culinary paradise, with a huge selection of Japanese and international delicacies. I ended up buying some matcha tea and traditional sweets.


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

For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a special meal at Jiki Miyazawa. This restaurant is known for its innovative Kyoto cuisine, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. We opted for the tasting menu, and each dish was a work of art. The chef, Takatomo Izumi-san, is incredibly talented, and he clearly puts a lot of thought and care into his creations. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Indulge in an authentic Kaiseki dining experience at Jiki Miyazawa, where seasonal flavors meet exquisite presentation in the heart of Kyoto.

We walked back to Matsui Bekkan Hanakanzashi, our lovely guesthouse, feeling utterly content. As I drifted off to sleep, I thought about the day's experiences. The shimmering gold of Kinkaku-ji, the tranquil stones of Ryoan-ji, and the serene beauty of Ninna-ji. Each temple had offered a unique perspective on Japanese culture and spirituality, and I felt grateful for the opportunity to have experienced them all. Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Nijo Castle, the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. I'm also looking forward to trying some local sake at The Common One Bar Kyoto in the evening. I can't wait to see what new adventures await us!


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

It's funny, I nearly forgot my Japanese phrasebook at home! Good thing I remembered it at the last minute. Though, I still feel like I need to brush up on my Japanese before I accidentally order something too adventurous. Hans is always a good sport though, even when I end up ordering something completely unexpected. He says it adds to the adventure!

I am so happy to be sharing this journey with Hans. As we explore Kyoto, I find myself falling in love with the city and its culture. It's a reminder of how much there is to see and learn in the world, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to experience it all with my best friend. I wonder what tomorrow will bring?

Before I sign off, I did notice a few events happening around Kyoto. There's the Weeping Plum and Camellia Festival at Jonangu Shrine, and various Setsubun festivals at different shrines. Maybe we'll check one out if we have time. For now, it's time for some well-deserved rest. Oyasumi nasai! (Good night!)