Cultural Immersion in Kyoto: A Family Adventure

Whispers of the Past

Our first day in Kyoto was nothing short of magical. From the moment we stepped off the train, the city embraced us with its unique blend of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy. It was a day filled with iconic landmarks, delicious food, and the kind of immersive experiences that make you feel truly connected to a place. Hans and I were eager to explore, and Kyoto certainly didn't disappoint.

The crisp February air nipped at our cheeks as we set out, but the excitement of exploring Kyoto kept us warm. I was glad I'd packed my wool coat; February in Kyoto is definitely sweater weather! Our first stop was the famed Fushimi Inari Shrine (Thousand Torii Gates), a place I had dreamed of visiting for years. I had forgotten to pack my Japanese phrasebook, but thankfully Hans had remembered his, and his German accent attempting Japanese phrases was quite amusing.


Explore the mystical Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant torii gates and rich cultural heritage in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.

A Thousand Vermilion Dreams at Fushimi Inari

The seemingly endless path of vibrant orange torii gates snaking up the mountainside was even more breathtaking in person. The sheer number of gates, each donated by businesses and individuals, was astounding. Walking through them felt like traversing a tunnel through time, each gate a testament to centuries of faith and devotion. The history of the shrine dates back to the 8th century, with the deity Inari enshrined here to ensure bountiful harvests. Over time, its significance has expanded to include business prosperity and family safety.

As we ascended, the crowds thinned, and the atmosphere became more serene. We passed smaller shrines and stone fox statues – the fox being the messenger of Inari – each with its own unique charm. The higher we climbed, the more panoramic the views of Kyoto became. It was a truly awe-inspiring experience, one that I'll cherish forever. I made a mental note to buy an extra memory card for my camera, as I was already snapping photos like crazy.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in grand monuments, but in the quiet whispers of history echoing through ancient paths.

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By the time we made our way back down, we were both ravenous. Luckily, our itinerary included a delightful vegan breakfast at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO. I've been trying to incorporate more sustainable living practices into my life, and finding vegan options while traveling is always a win.


Discover exquisite vegan delights at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO – where culinary creativity meets sustainable living.

Vegan Pancakes and Pure Water

AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO was a cozy haven, tucked away on a quiet side street. The restaurant itself is located on Daini Kyogoku Street. We indulged in their famous Heavenly Vegan Pancakes, fluffy and delicious, a perfect start to the day. It's amazing how they manage to create such decadent treats without any animal products!

Fuelled and ready for more adventure, we headed to Kiyomizu-dera, another of Kyoto's iconic temples. Situated on the hillside, the temple offers stunning views of the city. The main hall, a National Treasure of Japan, is an architectural marvel, constructed in 1633 without the use of a single nail! The temple was established in 778, and has been rebuilt multiple times throughout history.


Discover the historical beauty of Kiyomizu-dera, a stunning Buddhist temple offering breathtaking views and serene surroundings in the heart of Kyoto.

The wooden stage extending out from the main hall is perhaps the most famous feature, offering a panoramic vista of Kyoto. It was fascinating to learn that this stage once hosted musical performances. We took our time soaking in the view, imagining what it must have been like centuries ago. Underneath the main hall, we found the Otowa Waterfall, where three streams of water cascade into a pond. Visitors can drink the water, believed to have wish-granting powers. We each took a sip, hoping for good health and happiness.

A Stroll Through Time on Sannenzaka

From Kiyomizu-dera, we wandered down Sannenzaka, a charming stone-paved পথ lined with traditional shops and teahouses. The atmosphere was enchanting, like stepping back in time. Sannenzaka, also known as Sannei-zaka or Three-Year Slope, was developed during the Taisho era, and is known for its nostalgic scenery. I couldn't resist browsing the pottery stores, admiring the delicate craftsmanship of Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki ceramics.


Explore Sannenzaka, a historic street in Kyoto, where traditional charm meets stunning views of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perfect for an unforgettable cultural experience.

We sampled local street food, from traditional sweets like Yatsuhashi to savory treats like Yuba Manju. The aroma of incense wafted through the air, mingling with the sweet scent of pastries. It was a sensory feast! Sannenzaka leads to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and the streets are filled with shops and restaurants selling traditional products and food from Kyoto.

Lunch was a delightful experience at Katsukura - Kyoto Porta, where we savored their famous Tonkatsu. The pork was juicy and tender, the breading perfectly crispy. It's not exactly traditional Kyoto cuisine, but it was incredibly satisfying. The restaurant is located within Kyoto Station, making it a convenient stop for travelers. The miso soup was filled with veggies including lotus root slices, and the finely sliced cabbage was a great way to balance the richness of the sesame dipping sauce.


Discover authentic Tonkatsu at Katsukura - a must-visit Japanese restaurant in Kyoto offering delightful flavors in a modern setting.

Shopping and Kaiseki Delights

In the afternoon, we explored Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street, a bustling arcade filled with shops selling everything from souvenirs to clothing. The street dates back to 1872, and is known as the second oldest shopping district in Japan. It was interesting to learn that the area was once a major entertainment district, with theaters and movie halls.


Explore Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street, a vibrant hub of traditional crafts, delicious street food, and unique shopping experiences in the heart of Kyoto.

We picked up a few souvenirs, including some Japanese sweets and a beautiful silk scarf for my mother. It was fascinating to discover the temples and shrines nestled among the shops, offering a moment of tranquility amidst the lively atmosphere. The area transitioned from being The City of Movie Watching to The City of Souvenirs, and it is the perfect place to find that perfect souvenir!

For dinner, we indulged in a traditional Kaiseki experience at Gion Nanba. Tucked away in a small alley in Gion, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a multi-course set menu of creative and beautifully presented Japanese dishes. The chef uses fresh, seasonal ingredients, with much attention paid to the flavour profiles of the key ingredients in each dish. The service was impeccable, and the ambiance intimate and refined. The chef even spoke English, explaining each dish with care.


Discover authentic kaiseki cuisine at Gion Nanba, where tradition meets taste in Kyoto's historic Gion district.

The dishes were much more traditional than many of the other kaiseiki restaurants, and much attention is paid to the flavour profiles of the key ingredients in each dish. The small kitchen was amazing to watch, with two chefs navigating the tight space. We savored every bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such culinary artistry. The restaurant is just a stone's throw away from Yasaka Shrine.

As the day drew to a close, we strolled back to our guesthouse, Matsui Bekkan Hanakanzashi, our hearts full of cherished memories. The air was crisp, and the city lights twinkled like stars. Tomorrow, we're planning a trip to the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Tenryu-ji Temple, and Togetsukyo Bridge. I can't wait to see what other wonders Kyoto has in store for us!


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