Family Cultural Journey to Kyoto

Kyoto's Gilded Memories

Today was a day of shimmering gold and powerful history as we delved deeper into Kyoto's cultural tapestry. With Priya, Aarav, and I all eager to explore, we set out to witness the splendor of Kinkaku-ji and the imposing presence of Nijō Castle. It was a day filled with visual delights and historical insights, painting vivid memories that I know we will cherish for years to come.

Our day began with a hearty vegan breakfast at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO. As someone who enjoys trying new cuisines, I found this spot fascinating, especially since Priya and I are trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into our diet. We fueled up with their famous 'heavenly' vegan pancakes. Aarav, of course, loved the pancakes, and Priya and I appreciated the creative twist on classic breakfast food. It’s always a win when we find a place that caters to both our dietary preferences and Aarav's discerning taste!

With our bellies full, we headed towards our first destination: Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. The bus ride there was an experience in itself, watching Kyoto slowly wake up. I couldn't help but reflect on how different this was from my early days in Toronto, where everything felt so fast-paced. Here, even the mundane felt infused with a sense of calm.

As we approached Kinkaku-ji, the anticipation grew. And then, there it was – a dazzling spectacle of gold shimmering under the morning sun. The sight was truly breathtaking. The way the light played on the golden facade, reflecting onto the Mirror Pond, created a scene that felt almost surreal. Aarav was mesmerized, pointing and exclaiming at the 'shiny temple.' Even Priya, who is usually composed, couldn't help but gasp at the beauty.

We strolled through the meticulously landscaped gardens, each step offering a new vantage point of the pavilion. The blend of different architectural styles in the three-story structure was fascinating – a testament to the rich history it embodies. The gardens themselves were a masterclass in Japanese landscaping, designed to create a sense of harmony and peace. I tried my hand at the coin toss near the Fudo-do Shrine, hoping for a bit of good luck, while Aarav was more interested in the koi fish swimming in the pond.

It's not just a temple; it's a golden memory etched in the heart of Kyoto's serene landscape.

Leaving Kinkaku-ji, we made our way to Nijō Castle, a stark contrast to the shimmering gold. Where Kinkaku-ji was about serene beauty, Nijō Castle spoke of power, history, and the dramatic shifts in Japan's feudal era.

Built in 1603 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo period, Nijō Castle served as his Kyoto residence. The castle is divided into three main areas: the Honmaru (main circle of defense), the Ninomaru (secondary circle of defense), and the surrounding gardens. Entering through the massive gate, I immediately felt transported back in time. The sheer scale of the castle, with its imposing stone walls and wide moats, was a powerful reminder of the shogun's authority.

We explored the Ninomaru Palace, the main attraction within the castle. The palace is composed of five buildings connected by covered walkways, each room adorned with stunning screen paintings by Kano Tanyu and Naonobu. The intricate details and artistry of these paintings were incredible, depicting scenes from nature and historical events. The famous 'nightingale floors' were particularly fascinating – designed to squeak underfoot to alert the shogun of any intruders. Aarav loved walking on them, giggling at the sound, while Priya and I marveled at the ingenuity of the design.

Walking through the gardens, I imagined the shogun and his court strolling through the same paths, discussing matters of state and plotting strategies. The gardens were meticulously designed by Kobori Enshu, featuring a large pond, ornamental stones, and manicured pine trees. It was a perfect example of traditional Japanese landscape design, meant to evoke a sense of tranquility and harmony.

After immersing ourselves in history, our stomachs started to rumble. It was time for lunch, and we headed to Hafuu for a meaty indulgence. This restaurant is known for its exquisite Japanese beef dishes, and I was eager to try their famous wagyu cutlet sandwiches. Priya opted for the lighter sautéed snapper, while Aarav, predictably, chose a simpler steak option. My wagyu cutlet sandwich was heavenly – the beef was so tender and flavorful, it practically melted in my mouth. Priya enjoyed her snapper, commenting on the delicate flavors and the hint of curry in the puree. And Aarav, well, he devoured his steak in record time, declaring it the 'best steak ever!'

With our appetites satisfied, we decided to indulge in a little retail therapy at the Daimaru Kyoto Store. Priya was interested in browsing the high-fashion boutiques, while I was hoping to find some unique souvenirs. Aarav, of course, was drawn to the toy section. We spent a pleasant hour exploring the store, with Priya admiring the latest collections, I picked up a beautiful handcrafted tea set, and Aarav gleefully clutched a new toy car.

For dinner, we decided to try The Cellar Kyoto, a restaurant known for its creative cuisine and extensive wine selection. The restaurant had a unique, hidden-away atmosphere, adding to the sense of adventure. We were led to a private room, which was a delightful surprise. The ambiance was perfect for a relaxing evening, and the staff were incredibly attentive. The food was exceptional, each dish beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. Priya and I enjoyed the wine pairing, while Aarav was happy with his non-alcoholic options. It was the perfect end to a day filled with beauty, history, and delicious food.

As we headed back to our hotel, I couldn't help but reflect on the day's experiences. From the shimmering gold of Kinkaku-ji to the imposing presence of Nijō Castle, Kyoto had once again captivated us with its unique blend of beauty and history. It was a day filled with memories that I know we will cherish for years to come.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Tenryu-ji Temple, and the Arashiyama Monkey Park [if it doesn't rain!]. I'm particularly excited about the bamboo forest – I've seen so many photos of it, and I can't wait to experience its serene beauty in person. And Aarav is thrilled about the monkey park, of course! It promises to be another day filled with adventure and discovery.

This trip to Kyoto is turning out to be everything I had hoped for, and more. It's not just about seeing the sights; it's about immersing ourselves in the culture, connecting with the history, and creating lasting memories with my family. And as an immigrant, showing Aarav the wonders of different cultures and histories is important. It's a reminder of the richness and diversity of our world, and the importance of understanding and appreciating different perspectives. This trip is more than just a vacation; it's an education, a connection, and a celebration of the human spirit.

I forgot to pack a raincoat and extra memory cards for my camera, which is a bummer, but I'll pick some up tomorrow.


Explore Kinkaku-ji, the breathtaking Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, where history and nature blend beautifully in a tranquil setting.


Experience the grandeur of Nijō Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history, architecture, and nature intertwine in Kyoto's cultural heart.


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


Discover Hafuu in Kyoto: where premium Japanese beef meets culinary excellence in an elegant setting.


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


Discover culinary excellence at The Cellar Kyoto - where creative cuisine meets fine wine in a stylish setting.