Cultural Winter Retreat in Kyoto with Family

Kyoto's Spiritual Embrace

Today in Kyoto was nothing short of magical, a journey that took us through vibrant vermillion gates and alongside a shimmering golden pavilion. It was a day filled with cultural immersion, spiritual reflection, and culinary delights, all while navigating the serene winter landscape with my family. Every moment felt like stepping into a postcard, a memory etched forever in our hearts.

Our day began with a hearty vegan breakfast at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO. It's always a treat to find plant-based options that don't compromise on flavor, and this place certainly delivered. Emily was particularly thrilled, as she's been experimenting with vegan baking lately and was eager to try their renowned 'Heavenly Vegan Pancakes'. David and I opted for some savory dishes, fueling up for the day's adventures ahead.


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

Journey Through a Thousand Torii

Our first stop was the breathtaking Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its seemingly endless tunnel of vibrant red torii gates. The crisp January air nipped at our cheeks as we began our ascent, but the energy of the place kept us warm. I remember reading about Fushimi Inari as a child in Hong Kong, mesmerized by the images of the vermillion gates winding up the mountain. To finally be here, walking through them with my own family, felt surreal.


Explore the enchanting Fushimi Inari Shrine, home to thousands of vibrant torii gates, where tradition and breathtaking beauty await every visitor.

The sheer number of gates was astounding, each one donated by a different individual or company. As we walked, we noticed the inscriptions on the posts, a testament to the faith and gratitude of those who contributed. The path wound its way through the forest, sunlight dappling through the trees and casting an ethereal glow on the red gates. Even in winter, there was a sense of vitality, a feeling of ancient spirits watching over us.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its temples and shrines, but in the way it weaves its history and spirituality into the fabric of everyday life.

We didn't quite make it to the summit, as the climb was a bit strenuous for David's knees, but we went far enough to soak in the atmosphere and appreciate the stunning views of Kyoto sprawling below. Emily, ever the shutterbug, was in her element, snapping photos from every angle. I even managed to capture a few decent shots myself, though I'm still learning the ropes of photography. I must remember to buy extra batteries for the camera!

Gion's Gourmet Interlude

After descending from Fushimi Inari, our stomachs were rumbling, so we headed to Gion Nanba for lunch. Finding it was part of the adventure, as it's tucked away in a narrow alley, hidden from the bustling Shijo street. This exquisite Kyo-Kaiseki restaurant was a true gem. The presentation of each dish was a work of art, and the flavors were subtle yet complex, highlighting the freshest seasonal ingredients. I particularly enjoyed the scallop, sea urchin, and bamboo shoot appetizer – a delightful combination of textures and tastes.


Discover authentic kaiseki cuisine at Gion Nanba, where tradition meets taste in Kyoto's historic Gion district.

David, a history teacher, was fascinated by the tradition of Kaiseki cuisine and how it reflects the changing seasons. He kept remarking on the chef's attention to detail, from the choice of ingredients to the elegant tableware. Emily, always up for new experiences, tried everything with gusto, even the more unusual dishes. I was so proud of her adventurous spirit!

Golden Reflections at Kinkaku-ji

Our afternoon was dedicated to the iconic Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. As we approached the temple, the sight of it shimmering in the sunlight took our breath away. Even in the winter landscape, with its bare trees and frosty pond, the pavilion exuded an otherworldly beauty. I had seen countless photos of Kinkaku-ji, but nothing could have prepared me for the real thing.


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

The temple's golden exterior was dazzling, reflecting the sunlight and creating a mesmerizing effect. We strolled through the meticulously manicured gardens, admiring the carefully placed stones and the serene pond. The absence of the usual tourist throngs made the experience all the more special, allowing us to soak in the tranquility of the place.

We learned that Kinkaku-ji was originally built as a retirement villa for a shogun, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, in the late 14th century. After his death, it was converted into a Zen Buddhist temple. The temple has been burned down several times throughout history, most recently in 1950 by a mentally unstable monk. The current structure is a reconstruction, but it still retains the essence of the original design.

I was particularly moved by the story of the monk who burned down the temple. It's a reminder that even the most beautiful and sacred places are not immune to human fallibility. It also made me appreciate the resilience of the Japanese people, who have rebuilt Kinkaku-ji time and again, preserving its beauty for future generations.

Shopping for Memories

Before dinner, we stopped by the Kyoto Crafts Store, hoping to find some unique souvenirs to take back home. The store was a treasure trove of traditional Japanese crafts, from delicate ceramics to intricately woven textiles. I was particularly drawn to the lacquerware, with its rich colors and lustrous finish. I ended up buying a small lacquer box for myself, a reminder of our time in Kyoto.


Explore the essence of Kyoto's artistry at the Kyoto Crafts Store, where traditional handicrafts meet contemporary charm.

Emily, of course, gravitated towards the manga and anime section, while David browsed the calligraphy supplies. We spent a good hour wandering through the store, admiring the craftsmanship and learning about the different techniques used to create these beautiful objects. It was a wonderful way to connect with the local culture and support the artisans who are keeping these traditions alive.

A Culinary Finale

Our day culminated in a truly unforgettable dinner at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION. The restaurant exuded an air of elegance and sophistication, with its dimly lit interior and attentive staff. We were seated at a counter overlooking the teppanyaki grill, where a skilled chef prepared our meal with meticulous care.


Experience unparalleled flavors at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION in Kyoto - a must-visit for steak lovers seeking authenticity.

We opted for the Kobe beef sirloin, cooked to perfection. Each bite was a revelation, the meat melting in our mouths with a rich, buttery flavor. It was unlike any steak I had ever tasted. The chef also prepared a selection of grilled vegetables, which complemented the beef perfectly.

David, a self-proclaimed carnivore, was in heaven. He declared it the best steak he had ever eaten, a sentiment echoed by Emily and myself. It was a fitting end to a day of culinary delights.

As we walked back to our hotel, the Tomoya Residence Hotel Kyoto Nijo Takakura, the city was quiet and peaceful. The only sounds were the soft crunch of snow under our feet and the distant chime of a temple bell. I felt a sense of contentment wash over me, a feeling of gratitude for the experiences we had shared as a family.


Experience comfort and convenience at Tomoya Residence Hotel Kyoto Nijo Takakura, ideally located near Kyoto's top attractions and cultural sites.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Arashiyama and its famous bamboo grove, followed by a visit to the Tenryu-ji Temple. I'm also hoping to do some more shopping at the Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street. I’m looking forward to it, but I know it will be hard to top today's adventures. Kyoto has truly captured our hearts.

I must admit, I'm starting to feel the strain of all the walking. Perhaps I should invest in a pair of those comfortable Japanese sandals I saw at the crafts store. And I definitely need to remember to pack that portable phone charger tomorrow! It completely slipped my mind, and I almost ran out of battery several times today.

I'm also realizing that my Japanese phrasebook would have come in handy. While most people we encountered spoke some English, it would have been nice to be able to communicate more fluently. I'll make sure to brush up on my Japanese before our next adventure.

For now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of exploration. Oyasumi nasai, Kyoto!