Family Cultural Journey to Kyoto

Kyoto's Contrasts: Serenity and Spectacle

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of the serene and the spectacular. Kyoto continues to enchant me with its ability to hold both tranquil temples and vibrant cultural performances within its embrace. It’s a city that caters to every mood, every interest, and every member of the family.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Kyoto cuisine Hanasaki Nishikiten. The restaurant was conveniently located, and we enjoyed a traditional Japanese breakfast, setting a perfect tone for the day. The delicate flavors and artful presentation were a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Aarav was particularly fascinated by the tiny dishes and the variety of textures. It's these small cultural experiences that I cherish sharing with my family. It reminds me of growing up in Mauritius, where food was always a central part of our family gatherings.


Discover authentic Kyoto cuisine at Hanasaki Nishikiten—where tradition meets culinary artistry in every exquisite dish.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to explore Nanzen-ji Temple.r

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      The approach to Nanzen-ji was breathtaking. The temple complex is vast, nestled against the lush green hills of Higashiyama. The towering Sanmon Gate made quite an impression. We wandered through the grounds, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere that seemed to permeate every corner. The kids were fascinated by the massive brick aqueduct, a testament to Kyoto's blend of history and innovation.r


Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Nanzen-ji Temple, a stunning Buddhist sanctuary nestled in the heart of Kyoto's natural landscape.

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      We took our time exploring the sub-temples, each with its unique character and charm. The Zen gardens were particularly captivating, their carefully raked gravel and artfully placed stones inviting contemplation. Aarav, surprisingly, was quite taken with the gardens, spending a good amount of time tracing patterns in the gravel with his finger (much to Priya's amusement and my slight anxiety!).

It's funny how travel can bring out unexpected interests, isn't it?

After our temple visit, it was time for lunch. We chose Antonio, a Spanish restaurant, for a change of pace. It felt a bit like a taste of Europe in the heart of Kyoto! The paella was delicious, and it was a nice break from the Japanese cuisine we'd been enjoying. It was a reminder of the diverse culinary scene that Kyoto offers. Priya reminisced about our trip to Spain a few years ago, and we all agreed that a return visit was in order.


Discover authentic Spanish flavors at Antonio in Kyoto – where culinary artistry meets vibrant ambiance.

In the evening, we headed to Gion Corner, Kyoto's geisha district, for a taste of traditional Japanese performing arts. Before the show, we strolled through the lantern-lit streets of Gion, hoping to catch a glimpse of a geiko or maiko. The area was buzzing with energy, a stark contrast to the tranquility of Nanzen-ji. Though we didn't spot any geiko, the atmosphere alone was worth the visit.r


Discover the enchanting world of traditional Japanese arts at Gion Corner in Kyoto, a cultural hub showcasing geisha performances and more.

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      Gion Corner itself was an experience. The show offered a condensed version of various traditional arts, including a tea ceremony, flower arrangement, and a captivating dance performance by a maiko. Aarav was mesmerized by the colorful costumes and the graceful movements of the dancers. It was a wonderful introduction to Japanese culture for him, and for us as well. It was a reminder of the beauty and artistry that exists in every culture, something I try to instill in Aarav as we explore the world.

To cap off the night, while Priya and Aarav headed back to the hotel, I decided to experience Kyoto's nightlife at WORLD KYOTO. It was quite different from the serene temples and traditional arts we'd experienced earlier in the day. The club was energetic, with a great mix of music and people. It was interesting to see a different side of Kyoto, a city that seamlessly blends the old and the new. I even met a few locals who were surprised to learn I was an immigration consultant from Toronto! It's always fascinating to connect with people from different backgrounds and share stories.


Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Kyoto at WORLD KYOTO, where music, dance, and culture collide for an unforgettable experience.

Dinner was at ryu no hige. The restaurant focuses on Kyoto cuisine and Japanese kaiseki while also incorporating French culinary techniques. Their unique courses blend traditional Kyoto dishes with a playful French twist, offering an original dining experience.


Discover the art of fusion dining at Ryu no Hige in Kyoto - where French elegance meets Japanese creativity.

As I reflect on the day, I am struck by the diversity of experiences Kyoto offers. From the peaceful temples to the vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone. It's a city that engages all the senses and leaves a lasting impression. Tomorrow, we have our last day in Kyoto, and we plan to make the most of it with a visit to the Kyoto Railway Museum and Yasaka Shrine. I'm particularly excited about the railway museum, as Aarav is a big fan of trains. We'll also try to squeeze in some last-minute souvenir shopping at the Kyoto Station ASTY Kyoto Kyoani Goods Store. It's bittersweet to think that our time here is coming to an end, but I know we'll be leaving with memories that will last a lifetime.

It's been an incredible journey, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share it with my family. As I always say, travel is not just about seeing new places, but about creating new memories and strengthening bonds. And Kyoto has certainly delivered on that front.

I'm also reminded of the importance of being open to new experiences, even those that might seem outside of one's comfort zone. Whether it's trying a new cuisine, exploring a different culture, or simply striking up a conversation with a stranger, travel has a way of broadening our horizons and challenging our perspectives. And that, to me, is what makes it so enriching.