Family Cultural Journey to Kyoto

A Day of Serenity and History in Kyoto

Today was a day of deep cultural immersion, the kind that makes you feel like you're truly connecting with the heart of a place. It's about more than just seeing the sights; it's about experiencing the essence of Kyoto, feeling its history beneath your feet, and finding moments of peace amidst the vibrant energy of the city. I was excited to explore ancient temples and wander through historic streets, soaking in the atmosphere with Priya and Aarav by my side.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Hanasaki [i].


Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Hanasaki in Kyoto - where tradition meets artistry in every delicious dish.

Fuelled up with a traditional Japanese meal, we set out to explore the wonders that Kyoto had in store for us. Aarav was particularly excited, his eyes wide with anticipation for the adventures ahead.

Our first stop was Kenninji Temple, Kyoto's oldest Zen temple.


Explore the tranquility of Kenninji Temple, one of Kyoto's oldest Zen temples, featuring stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.

As an immigration consultant, I often deal with the complexities of modern life, so the promise of finding some tranquility in this ancient space was particularly appealing. Founded in 1202 by Myoan Eisai, the monk who brought Zen Buddhism and tea to Japan from China, Kenninji is a place where history and spirituality intertwine. Walking through the temple grounds, I could feel a sense of calm wash over me, a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of Toronto.

The main hall, with its magnificent roof, faces a dry garden that symbolizes flowing waters. The artistry and symbolism in the gardens were incredible. The gardens, Chouon-tei and Daiou-en, are physical representations of the Zen worldview. The minimalist design, evoking the five elements of Zen—earth, water, fire, wind, and the void—is also named to allude to the concept that all of existence can be encapsulated in the circle, the triangle, and the square. It was a powerful reminder of the beauty of simplicity and the importance of introspection.

Zen is silence, something modern people are increasingly impoverished of.

One of the highlights of Kenninji is the stunning painting of twin dragons on the ceiling of the Hatto Hall. Commissioned to commemorate the temple's 800th anniversary, the dragons are considered guardians of the Buddhist Dharma and are associated with rain-bringing dragons that nourish the earth with Buddhist teachings. Aarav was mesmerized by the sheer size and detail of the artwork, and I found myself equally captivated. It’s moments like these, sharing cultural experiences with my son, that make these family trips so special. I tried my hand at Zazen (seated meditation), but my mind wandered back to Priya and Aarav, and whether they were enjoying themselves.

Leaving Kenninji Temple, we made our way to Sannenzaka, a historic cobblestone street in the Higashiyama district.


Discover Sannenzaka, a historic street in Kyoto, where traditional charm meets stunning views and delightful local cuisine.

This charming slope is lined with traditional wooden houses, souvenir shops, and teahouses, offering a glimpse into Kyoto's rich cultural heritage. As we strolled along the stone-paved path, I felt like I was stepping back in time. The atmosphere was enchanting, with the traditional architecture and quaint shops creating a nostalgic ambiance.

Sannenzaka is known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and historical significance. The road was opened in 808 and legend says that if one falls on the stone steps of this slope, they will die within three years. Fortunately, we all managed to stay on our feet! Aarav was fascinated by the various shops selling traditional crafts and sweets, and Priya enjoyed browsing the pottery stores. We sampled some local delicacies, including Yatsuhashi and dango, savoring the unique flavors of Kyoto.

We stopped for lunch at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya [i].


Experience authentic teppanyaki at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, Kyoto's premier destination for Japanese cuisine in a lively izakaya setting.

It was a delightful experience, watching the chefs prepare our meals on the teppan grill. Aarav was particularly thrilled by the interactive cooking style, and Priya and I enjoyed the delicious food and lively atmosphere.

Asty Kyoto was next on our list, and we did a little souvenir shopping [i].


Explore ASTY Kyoto, where shopping meets culture, offering delightful souvenirs, local cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Kyoto.

Aarav picked out a small dragon figurine to remind him of Kenninji Temple, and Priya found a beautiful silk scarf. I was tempted to buy a new lens for my camera, but I resisted the urge, knowing that I already had plenty of equipment to capture our memories [i].

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Fujiya for dinner [i].


Discover the exquisite flavors of traditional kaiseki cuisine at Fujiya in Kyoto - where every meal is a masterpiece.

This restaurant promised an authentic Kyoto dining experience, and it did not disappoint. The food was exquisite, and the service was impeccable. We savored each dish, reflecting on the incredible day we had experienced.

As we walked back to the Travelodge Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family.


Experience the vibrant culture of Kyoto at Travelodge Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi—your ideal base for exploring historic sites, shopping, and dining.

Kyoto has a way of captivating your soul, and I knew that the memories we made today would stay with us for a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Heian Shrine and walk along the Philosopher's Path [i]. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing the shrine's stunning architecture and the serene beauty of the Philosopher's Path. It's another day filled with cultural exploration and family bonding, and I can't wait to see what Kyoto has in store for us.

One of the most exciting events happening in Kyoto this month is the Spring Dances by Geiko & Maiko, which runs until May 24th. We were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a Maiko on Sannenzaka, which was a special treat. Other events include the Special Exhibition Commemorating Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai Japan, an Artistic Melting Pot at the Kyoto National Museum, and the Yayoi Kusama Print Works exhibition at the Kyoto City Kyocera Museum of Art. There's always something happening here!

As I reflect on our day, I am reminded of why I love to travel. It's not just about seeing new places; it's about connecting with different cultures, learning from the past, and creating lasting memories with the people I love. Kyoto has given us all of that and more, and I am excited to see what the rest of our trip will bring.

“To travel is to take a journey into yourself.” These words ring true as I sit here, penning down our day's adventures. Each temple, each garden, each cobblestone path has been a mirror reflecting a different facet of my own being. It’s a privilege to share this journey with Priya and Aarav, watching them discover the wonders of Kyoto and, in turn, discovering more about themselves.

And now, as the day gently fades into night, I'm filled with a sense of anticipation for what tomorrow holds. With the promise of more cultural treasures and family adventures, I'm eager to continue our exploration of this enchanting city. Goodnight from Kyoto!