Cultural Immersion in Kyoto: A Family Adventure

Farewell, Kyoto: A Day of Temples and Treasures

As our Kyoto adventure draws to a close, I wanted to soak in every last bit of this magical city. Today was all about embracing the tranquility of Kyoto's temples and finding a special memento to bring home. It’s amazing how much a place can feel like home in just nine days.

Our final day in Kyoto began with a delightful breakfast at Arancino Kyoto. I was eager to try their Italian cuisine with a Japanese twist. The restaurant was conveniently located near our guesthouse, making it an easy start to the day. Hans and I shared a scrumptious plate of pasta, savoring every bite as we discussed our plans for the day. I must admit, having Italian for breakfast in Japan felt a bit odd, but it was a delicious way to start our last day. We reminisced about all the amazing food we had savored during our trip, from the delicate sushi to the hearty ramen, each meal a new adventure for our taste buds.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set out to explore the temples of Kyoto, starting with Nanzen-ji. The crisp February air nipped at our cheeks as we approached the temple grounds. The bare trees stood in stark contrast to the intricate architecture, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. Nanzen-ji, with its impressive Sanmon Gate and the unique aqueduct, was a sight to behold. We wandered through the gardens, taking in the peaceful ambiance and marveling at the blend of nature and human artistry. The sheer scale of the temple complex was astounding, and I found myself lost in thought, reflecting on the history and spirituality that permeated the air. We took our time exploring the Hojo Garden, a beautiful rock garden that exuded tranquility. The way the stones were arranged, with the carefully raked gravel, created a sense of harmony and balance. It was a perfect spot to sit and meditate, letting the peace of the garden wash over us.


Discover the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Nanzen-ji, a treasured Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto's picturesque landscape.

In every corner of Kyoto, there's a story waiting to be discovered, a moment of zen to be embraced.

Next on our list was Eikandō Temple, also known as Zenrin-ji. As we walked through the temple grounds, I was struck by the beauty of the connecting wooden walkways and the serene atmosphere. Although it's not autumn, I could imagine the vibrant colors that would fill this place in November. The temple's main hall houses the Mikaeri Amida statue, a unique depiction of Buddha looking over his shoulder. The story behind it is quite touching – it’s said that the Amida turned his head to encourage a disciple who was lagging behind. It was a reminder to always be mindful and compassionate towards others. We took our time exploring the temple, admiring the intricate details of the architecture and the peacefulness of the gardens. Even in the winter, there was a sense of tranquility and beauty that made Eikando a truly special place.


Discover the tranquility and breathtaking beauty of Eikandō Temple, a must-visit Buddhist retreat in the heart of Kyoto.

Our final temple visit was to Kodaiji Temple, which was established in 1606 in memory of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The temple is known for its stunning gardens and the Kodaiji Sho Museum. As we strolled through the grounds, I was captivated by the blend of nature and artistry. The bamboo grove was particularly enchanting, with the tall stalks swaying gently in the breeze, creating a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow. The gardens, designed by Kobori Enshu, were a masterpiece of landscape architecture, with meticulously placed stones and trees that created a sense of harmony and balance. The temple buildings themselves were equally impressive, with intricate details and a sense of history that transported me back in time. We also explored the Kodaiji Sho Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and artwork related to the temple and its history. It was a fascinating glimpse into the past, and I left with a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance of Kodaiji Temple.


Explore Kodaiji Temple in Kyoto, a serene Buddhist temple known for its stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage, perfect for a tranquil getaway.

After our temple visits, we ventured into the Kyoto Crafts Store, hoping to find a special souvenir to remember our trip. The store was a treasure trove of traditional Japanese crafts, from delicate ceramics to intricate textiles. I was particularly drawn to the lacquerware, with its glossy finish and elegant designs. Hans, on the other hand, was fascinated by the woodblock prints, admiring the skill and artistry that went into each piece. We spent hours browsing the store, marveling at the craftsmanship and trying to decide on the perfect memento. In the end, I chose a beautiful lacquer box with a delicate floral design, while Hans opted for a woodblock print of a serene landscape. These souvenirs would serve as a reminder of our time in Kyoto, a tangible connection to the beauty and tranquility we had experienced.


Explore the essence of Kyoto's artistry at the Kyoto Crafts Store, where traditional handicrafts meet contemporary charm.

For our final dinner in Kyoto, we chose Oryori Menami, a restaurant known for its traditional Obanzai cuisine. The restaurant had a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with a warm and inviting ambiance. We were seated at a table overlooking the Takase River, adding to the charm of the evening. The Obanzai dishes were a delightful mix of flavors and textures, showcasing the best of Kyoto's local ingredients. Each dish was carefully prepared and beautifully presented, a testament to the chef's skill and artistry. We savored every bite, reminiscing about our favorite moments from the trip and savoring the last tastes of Kyoto. It was the perfect ending to our culinary adventure in Japan.


Experience authentic Obanzai cuisine in Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward at Oryori Menami - where tradition meets taste.

As we walked back to our guesthouse, the city was quiet and peaceful, with only a few lights twinkling in the distance. I felt a sense of contentment and gratitude for the experiences we had shared. Kyoto had captured my heart with its beauty, history, and culture. It was a place that I knew I would never forget, a place that I would always cherish in my memories. Tomorrow, we leave for home, filled with stories and photographs to share. I’m already dreaming of our next adventure, wherever it may take us.

The blend of tradition and modernity, the serene temples, and the exquisite cuisine all contributed to an unforgettable experience. Kyoto, you will be missed.

Our time in Kyoto has come to an end, but the memories will last a lifetime. I hope you’ve enjoyed following our journey. Until next time, happy travels!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention – I finally found a Japanese phrasebook! It’s a bit late, but I’m hoping it will be useful for future trips. I also realized I forgot an extra memory card for the camera, which was a bit of a bummer, but thankfully I had enough space to capture all the amazing sights.

Bis bald,
Karen