Family Cultural Journey to Kyoto

Kyoto's Green Escapes

Today was a day dedicated to exploring Kyoto's serene natural beauty, a welcome change of pace after the bustling temples and markets. Priya, Aarav, and I set out to discover the city's botanical gardens and an imperial villa, hoping to soak in some tranquility and find new perspectives. It turned out to be a day filled with unexpected delights and quiet moments of reflection.

Our morning began at Yoshikawa, a charming spot known for its traditional Japanese breakfast. The inn, over a century old, exuded an authentic Japanese style with its squeaky floors and tatami mat rooms. The breakfast was a delightful array of flavors and textures – sour cherries dipped in sugar, grilled fish, tofu roll, and rice with all the trimmings. Aarav, surprisingly, enjoyed the tofu roll, declaring it his favorite part of the meal. Priya and I savored the traditional Kyoto-style dishes, appreciating the attention to detail and the freshness of the ingredients. It was a perfect start to a day focused on nature and peace. I find that these traditional breakfasts really set the tone for a day of cultural immersion. It reminds me of simpler times back in Quartier Militaire, Mauritius, where the day started with fresh ingredients and mindful preparation.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Yoshikawa, where tradition meets exceptional flavors in the heart of Kyoto.

Next on our itinerary was the Kyoto Botanical Gardens. As we entered, we were immediately enveloped by a sense of calm. The gardens are meticulously organized into various sections – a bamboo garden, a camellia garden, a European-style garden, and a greenhouse filled with tropical plants. Aarav was particularly fascinated by the lotus pond, where he spent a good half-hour trying to spot frogs. Priya and I strolled hand-in-hand through the rose garden, admiring the vibrant colors and fragrant blooms. The Kyoto Botanical Gardens, celebrating its 100th anniversary, is home to around 120,000 plants of 12,000 species. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blossoms, and the gentle breeze rustled through the leaves. Despite being in the heart of Kyoto, it felt like we had been transported to a secluded paradise. We even stumbled upon a small flower stand where I bought three small pots of flowers for just a few hundred yen. It reminded me of the lush gardens back in Mauritius, where nature's beauty is always within reach. I was a little disappointed that the Craft Marche wasn't taking place during our visit, as it sounded like a wonderful event.


Explore the Kyoto Botanical Gardens, a tranquil oasis showcasing diverse flora and stunning landscapes in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

After a refreshing morning amidst the flora, we headed to Hyoto Shijo Karasuma for lunch. This restaurant, a short walk from Karasuma Station, is known for its elegant setting and local ingredients. We indulged in their specialty “dashi shabu,” a hot pot dish featuring Wagyu beef sirloin and branded pork. Aarav, usually a picky eater, devoured the thinly sliced pork, dipping it enthusiastically in the flavorful dashi broth. Priya and I enjoyed the assortment of seasonal vegetables and the rich, savory flavors of the dish. The restaurant had a modern and precious space, perfect for a relaxing lunch. The dashi shabu was a culinary experience, and the locally grown ingredients added to the authenticity. It was a satisfying meal that left us energized for the afternoon's adventures.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors with exquisite hot pot and Kaiseki dishes at Hyoto Shijo Karasuma in Kyoto.

Our next destination was the Shugakuin Imperial Villa , located in the northeastern part of Kyoto, in the shadow of Mt. Hiei. This villa is the most spacious of Kyoto's imperial properties, and it requires advance reservation through the Imperial Household Agency. Fortunately, I had made the reservations well in advance, and we were able to join a guided tour. The villa is divided into Upper, Middle, and Lower sections, each offering unique landscapes and perspectives. As we walked through the leafy pathways, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the scale and beauty of the gardens. The highlight was the Yukuryuchi Pond in the Upper Villa, which mirrored the sky and surrounding greenery. It was a stunning sight, showcasing the advanced engineering of its time. The villa was entirely the work of Emperor Gomizuno-o, from the pavilions to the plants and trees. The guided tour provided valuable insights into the history and design of the villa, though I must admit, the strict rules about exploring freely were a bit restrictive. Still, the views over the city and the tranquility of the gardens made it a worthwhile experience. Aarav, of course, was more interested in chasing butterflies than listening to the tour guide, but even he seemed to appreciate the serene atmosphere.

As evening approached, we decided to try Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki & Teppan-yaki Kamehameha for dinner. This cozy restaurant is known for its authentic Hiroshima-style pancakes and teppanyaki dishes. It's a small, intimate place with only 12 seats around the counter, so I was glad I had made a reservation. We ordered the Set A, which included an appetizer, a drink, and a choice of Okonomiyaki. I chose the stamina Okonomiyaki with pork and bonito flakes, adding some beef as an extra topping. Priya opted for the vegetable deluxe vegetarian okonomiyaki. Aarav, surprisingly adventurous, tried a bit of everything. The okonomiyaki was cooked right in front of us, adding to the excitement of the meal. The crispy edges and soft center were a delight, and the flavors were rich and balanced. The staff were friendly and spoke fluent English, making us feel welcome and comfortable. It was a fun and satisfying dinner, a perfect end to a day of exploring Kyoto's natural and culinary delights. The chef trained at a renowned restaurant, ensuring an authentic experience. I was tempted to try their wagyu beef Okonomiyaki, but they had run out of it for the day. Maybe next time!


Discover authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Kamehameha, Kyoto's premier destination for delicious Japanese cuisine.

To cap off the evening, Priya and I decided to sneak away for a quick drink at L'Escamoteur, a bar known for its unique cocktails and Harry Potter-like vibe. This hidden gem has a narrow, inconspicuous entrance and dimly lit interiors, creating a cozy and mysterious atmosphere. The bartenders are skilled in the art of mixology, creating sheer magic with intoxicating liquids. We tried a couple of their signature cocktails, presented in the most creative ways possible. It was a delightful experience, a perfect way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing. L'Escamoteur is a truly magical place, and the owner, Chris, treats every customer as a guest in his home. The bar was quite popular, and we had to wait a bit to get in, but it was well worth the wait. I felt transported to another world, far from the bustling streets of Kyoto. We made sure to be back at the hotel in good time, ensuring Aarav was well-rested for tomorrow's adventures.


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

As I reflect on today, I’m struck by the importance of balance in travel. Amidst the temples and historical sites, taking a day to immerse ourselves in nature and savor local cuisine allowed us to connect with Kyoto on a deeper level. It reminded me that the most memorable travel experiences often come from unexpected moments and quiet discoveries.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Nanzen-ji Temple and Gion Corner, hoping to delve further into Kyoto's cultural heritage. I'm particularly excited about Gion Corner, as I've heard it offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of geishas. For dinner, we're booked at ryu no hige, and I'm eager to see what culinary delights await us. And perhaps, if Priya is up for it, we might even check out WORLD KYOTO, a nightclub that promises a vibrant nightlife experience. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of exploration.

I'm also reminded of the importance of being prepared. I wish I hadn't forgotten the raincoat and extra memory cards for the camera. These little things can make a big difference when you're out exploring. But as they say, every experience is a learning opportunity. And I'm grateful for every moment of this family cultural journey to Kyoto.

The weather was pleasant, with temperatures around 70°F (21°C) and cloudy skies. It was perfect for walking and exploring the gardens and villa. The forecast for the coming days looks promising, with temperatures expected to remain in the low to mid-20s Celsius. We're definitely making the most of this beautiful season in Kyoto. It's truly a delightful month to visit, with abundant sunshine and steadily rising temperatures.

I look forward to sharing more of our adventures with you soon. Until then, safe travels and happy exploring!