Family Exploration of Kyoto's Cultural Treasures

Whispers of Old Kyoto

Today was nothing short of magical. Waking up in Kyoto, there's this undeniable sense of stepping back in time. The air is different, the pace is slower, and every corner seems to hold a story. It was a day filled with temples, traditional streets, and delectable food – a true immersion into the heart of Japan. And to experience it all with Olivia and Ethan made it even more special.

Our day began with a delightful vegan breakfast at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO. I must admit, I was a bit skeptical about vegan pancakes, but Olivia insisted, and boy, was she right! These weren't just any pancakes; they were these fluffy, cloud-like creations that tasted like a dream. Ethan devoured his in record time, a testament to their deliciousness. It was a great way to fuel up for a day of exploring. I am glad we chose this place, as I am trying to incorporate more vegan meals into my life back in Hawthorne, and this was an inspiring start.


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

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to Kiyomizu-dera. The walk there was an experience in itself, navigating the charming streets of Kyoto, with glimpses of traditional wooden houses and vibrant gardens. The weather was perfect, a gentle breeze rustling through the trees, and the sun casting a warm glow on everything.


Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto, where culture and nature harmoniously blend.

Arriving at Kiyomizu-dera, I was immediately struck by its grandeur. The temple, founded in 780, stands proudly on the hillside, overlooking the city. The intricate wooden structure, built without the use of nails, is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the past. Ethan was fascinated by the massive pillars and the way they seemed to defy gravity.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its temples and gardens, but in the way it seamlessly blends the past with the present.

The main hall was impressive, housing a statue of the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon. We took a moment to appreciate the artistry and the sense of peace that permeated the space. The temple's history is rich, originally associated with the Hosso sect and later forming its own Kita Hosso sect. It's incredible to think that this place has been a center of spiritual significance for over a thousand years. I remember reading about Kenshin, the monk who had a vision leading him to the Otowa waterfall, which is where the temple gets its name. It's stories like these that bring history to life.

Of course, the highlight of Kiyomizu-dera is the wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, 13 meters above the hillside. The view from up there was simply breathtaking. The city of Kyoto spread out before us, a tapestry of rooftops and greenery. I could see why this spot is so famous, especially during the spring and fall when the cherry and maple trees are in full bloom. Even now, in late April, the landscape was vibrant and alive.

We made our way to the Otowa Waterfall, located at the base of the main hall. The water is divided into three streams, each said to have a different benefit: longevity, success at school, and a fortunate love life. We each chose a stream to drink from, careful not to be greedy and try all three! Ethan, of course, went for the success at school stream, while Olivia and I opted for longevity, hoping to enjoy many more adventures together.

After Kiyomizu-dera, we strolled through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, two beautifully preserved traditional streets leading up to the temple. These narrow, sloping lanes are lined with wooden storefronts, tea houses, and restaurants, offering a glimpse into Kyoto's past. Ethan was particularly amused by the myth that if you fall on these streets, you'll die in two or three years! We made sure to watch our step.


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


Experience Ninenzaka's historical charm with traditional wooden structures, vibrant shops, and serene tea houses in the heart of Kyoto.

The shops were filled with traditional crafts, from delicate ceramics to intricate paper crafts. We stopped at Kyoto Crafts Store, where I picked up a beautiful hand-painted fan for Olivia, and Ethan chose a small samurai figurine. It's amazing how these streets have managed to retain their old-world charm, despite the throngs of tourists. I read that these streets are considered an incomplete Kyoto trip without walking through them. It really is like stepping back in time.


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

For lunch, we decided to try Goichi Pizza. I know, pizza in Japan might seem a bit out of place, but we were in the mood for something different, and the reviews were excellent. It turned out to be a great choice. The pizza was delicious, with a crispy, chewy crust and flavorful toppings. Ethan, who's usually a picky eater, devoured his margherita in minutes. It was a nice break from the traditional Japanese cuisine, and the staff was incredibly friendly and spoke English, which made ordering a breeze. It was a small restaurant, but the food was delicious! We learned that Goichi Pizza even offers takeout, which is a popular option for guests at the nearby MIMARU hotel.


Discover the delicious fusion of Italian tradition and local flavors at Goichi Pizza in Kyoto - an unmissable dining experience!

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way to Gion for dinner at Gion Nanba. This Michelin-starred restaurant offered a traditional Kaiseki experience, a multi-course meal of beautifully presented small dishes. The restaurant was tucked away in a narrow alley, adding to its charm and exclusivity. The setting was intimate, with only a few counter seats and private dining rooms. We felt like we were being welcomed into someone's home.


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

The food was exquisite, each dish a work of art. The chef explained the ingredients and preparation methods, showcasing the care and attention that went into every bite. From the delicate sashimi to the flavorful grilled fish, every course was a delight to the senses. Olivia and I savored each moment, while Ethan, though not as adventurous, found plenty to enjoy. The service was impeccable, with the staff making us feel welcome and comfortable. We learned that Gion Nanba is known for using seasonal ingredients, so the menu changes regularly.

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll through Gion, the geisha district. The streets were dimly lit, with the soft glow of lanterns illuminating the traditional wooden buildings. We didn't spot any geishas, but the atmosphere was enchanting, transporting us to another era. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.

Tomorrow, we're heading to Arashiyama to explore the bamboo forest and Tenryu-ji Temple. I'm excited to see what adventures await us. I've heard the bamboo forest is magical, and I can't wait to experience it with my family. It will be a day filled with nature, history, and the simple joy of being together.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the day, I'm filled with gratitude. Kyoto is a city that captivates the senses and nourishes the soul. It's a place where history comes alive, where traditions are cherished, and where the beauty of nature is celebrated. I'm so grateful to be able to share this experience with Olivia and Ethan, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

And as I drift off to sleep, I can't help but wonder what tomorrow will bring. One thing is for sure: it will be another day of adventure, discovery, and unforgettable moments in this enchanting city.

I'm also thinking about some of the local events happening here in Kyoto. I read about the Yasurai Festival at Imamiya Shrine, which is held to pray for good health and prevention of illness. It sounds like a lively and mysterious event, with performers dressed as oni (demons) and traditional instruments playing. I'll have to see if we can check it out sometime during our trip. There's also the Toji Temple flea market, which is held on the 21st of every month. It's supposed to be a great place to find antiques, crafts, and souvenirs. Maybe we'll swing by and see if we can find any treasures.

Good night from Kyoto!