Family Cultural Journey to Kyoto

Echoes of Emperors and Exquisite Eats

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of historical grandeur and modern-day pleasures. Kyoto continues to surprise me with its ability to seamlessly weave together the ancient and the contemporary. From the serene gardens of the Kyoto Imperial Palace to the vibrant flavors of its diverse culinary scene, today was a feast for the senses. I'm excited to share the highlights of our explorations, from historical landmarks to hidden gems.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Kikuichimonjushirokanenaga honten. I'd read about their knives , but we were here for the food! It was a traditional Japanese breakfast, a delightful way to start the day. Aarav especially loved the tamagoyaki, the sweet rolled omelet. Fuelled up, we were ready to immerse ourselves in Kyoto's imperial history.

Our first stop was the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The palace was the residence of Japan's Imperial Family until 1868 when the emperor and capital were moved to Tokyo. The current palace was reconstructed in 1855 after fires. It's located in the spacious Kyoto Imperial Park. The palace is enclosed by walls with gates, halls and gardens. Walking through the grounds, you could almost hear the echoes of emperors past. The architecture was stunning, a testament to the refined elegance of the imperial court. We learned that the Shishinden (Hall for State Ceremonies) is the most important ceremonial building within the palace. The enthronement ceremonies of Emperors Taisho and Showa were held in the palace's main hall. Although we couldn't enter the buildings, wandering through the gardens was a peaceful experience.


Explore the historical elegance and natural beauty of Kyoto Imperial Palace, a cultural landmark reflecting Japan's royal history.

Next, we strolled through the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a vast green space surrounding the palace. It's hard to believe this tranquil park was once the exclusive domain of the imperial court. Now, it’s a place where locals and tourists alike can relax and enjoy nature. We found a peaceful spot by a pond and simply soaked in the atmosphere. Aarav, of course, was more interested in chasing pigeons, but even he seemed to appreciate the beauty of the surroundings. The garden is open to all, offering tranquility and picturesque spots.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a serene national park perfect for leisurely walks and cultural exploration amidst stunning landscapes.

To walk through these gardens is to step back in time, to feel the weight of history and the enduring beauty of Japanese culture.

For lunch, we decided to try something completely different: MUGHAL Indian Restaurant & Bar. Priya had been craving Indian food, and I'd read good things about this place. Tucked away near the Kamo River, it was a cozy little spot. The owner, Yukihide Hirata, established the restaurant in 1987. It was a welcome change from the traditional Japanese cuisine we'd been enjoying. We started with samosas, filled with peas and potato. I ordered the butter chicken, Priya had the saag paneer, and Aarav, surprisingly, opted for the chicken tikka masala. Everything was delicious, flavorful, and satisfying. The naan, in particular, was light and fluffy. It was nice to find capable Indian cooking in Kyoto.


Experience the vibrant flavors of India at Mughal Indian Restaurant & Bar in Kyoto – a haven for food lovers seeking authentic South Asian cuisine.

In the afternoon, we took a break from sightseeing and simply wandered through the streets of Kyoto. We explored Nishiki Market, a vibrant marketplace filled with local delicacies and crafts. Aarav was fascinated by all the strange and wonderful foods on display. We sampled some pickled vegetables and mochi, and I even bought a small knife as a souvenir. It reminded me a bit of the markets back home in Mauritius, the bustling energy and the array of colors and smells.

As evening approached, we made our way to Gion for dinner at Premium Pound Gion. This teppanyaki restaurant promised a premium dining experience, and it certainly delivered. All the seats are counter seats. The chef prepared our meal right in front of us, a mesmerizing display of culinary skill. We opted for the Kobe beef, which was cooked to perfection. It was melt-in-your-mouth delicious, a true indulgence. The ambience was calm, and Kyoto-style.


Experience culinary artistry at Premium Pound Gion – where French cuisine meets Japanese teppanyaki in the heart of Kyoto's historic Gion district.

After dinner, while Priya and Aarav headed back to the Travelodge Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi, I decided to explore Kyoto's nightlife. I ventured to Bar K6, a renowned spot known for its sophisticated atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails. It's considered a central point in Kyoto's bar scene. The bartender, Konishi-san, shared his insights on the Kyoto scene. The bar itself was cozy, with a classic, old-world charm. I ordered a whisky highball, a refreshing end to a long day. Chatting with the bartender, I learned that Kyoto drinkers are resistant to trends , preferring to stick to what they know and love. I appreciated that sentiment, a reflection of the city's deep-rooted traditions.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Bar K6, where traditional Japanese drinks meet modern bar culture in a cozy setting.

As I sipped my drink, I reflected on the day's adventures. From the imperial grandeur of the palace to the modern delights of the city's culinary scene, Kyoto had once again captivated me with its unique blend of old and new. It's a city that rewards exploration, offering hidden gems around every corner. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to visit Kenninji Temple and Sannenzaka. I have heard from other travelers that Kenninji Temple is a must-see.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Kyoto's cultural treasures, visiting Kenninji Temple and strolling through Sannenzaka. I'm particularly excited about Kenninji Temple, as it's the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto. I'm hoping to find some inner peace amidst the temple's serene gardens. And of course, I'm always on the lookout for new culinary adventures, so I'm eager to see what tomorrow's meals will bring. I also want to get a raincoat, because I forgot to pack one. I also want to make sure that I have extra memory cards for my camera.

Good night from Kyoto!