Family Exploration of Kyoto's Cultural Treasures

Finding Peace in Kyoto's Gardens and Flavors

Today was a day of tranquil exploration and culinary indulgence in Kyoto. From the vibrant Heian Shrine to the contemplative Philosopher's Path and the majestic Nanzen-ji, every moment felt like a step deeper into the heart of Japanese culture. And the food? Oh, the food! Each meal was a delightful experience in itself.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO Restaurant. Housed in a beautifully restored traditional building, the atmosphere was as delightful as the food. I opted for a classic Japanese breakfast set, while Olivia enjoyed a Western-style omelet. Ethan, of course, went straight for the pastries. It's funny how even in a place as steeped in tradition as Kyoto, a ten-year-old's taste buds still crave the familiar sweetness of a good croissant.

After breakfast, we made our way to the Heian Shrine. The sheer scale of the place was impressive. The vibrant vermilion gates stood out against the clear blue sky, creating a striking visual. Ethan was fascinated by the vast courtyard and the meticulously maintained gardens. Olivia, ever the nurturer, was drawn to the serene pond filled with colorful koi fish. I spent a good amount of time admiring the architecture, noting the intricate details and the way the design incorporated elements of nature. It reminded me of some of the construction projects I've managed back in Hawthorne, where we always strive to blend functionality with aesthetic appeal. The Heian Shrine, however, was on a completely different level.


Explore Heian Shrine in Kyoto for a serene experience of stunning gardens, rich history, and traditional Japanese architecture.

In Kyoto, serenity isn't just found; it's savored, moment by moment.

Next on our itinerary was the Philosopher's Path. This stone path follows a canal lined with cherry trees, and although the cherry blossoms were mostly gone, the path still held a certain charm. We strolled along, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the gentle sound of the water. Ethan, never one to stay still for long, entertained himself by skipping stones in the canal. Olivia and I took the opportunity to simply be present, soaking in the beauty of our surroundings. It's moments like these that make family travel so special – the chance to connect with each other in a new and meaningful way.


Explore the Philosopher's Path, a serene journey through nature and philosophy in Kyoto, lined with cherry blossoms and historic temples.

Lunch was at Kushikatsu Shinsekai, a delightful little restaurant specializing in kushikatsu – deep-fried skewers of meat and vegetables. It was a fun, interactive experience, as we got to dip our skewers in a communal pot of sauce (double-dipping strictly prohibited!). Ethan was particularly fond of the cheese kushikatsu, while Olivia enjoyed the variety of vegetable options. I tried a bit of everything, reveling in the explosion of flavors and textures. It was a far cry from the usual construction site lunches I'm used to, but a welcome change of pace.


Discover the authentic taste of Osaka at Kushikatsu Shinsekai - where every bite tells a story of culinary tradition.

Our afternoon was dedicated to exploring Nanzen-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple complex. This place was truly breathtaking. The massive Sanmon gate commanded attention, and the meticulously raked gravel gardens exuded an aura of tranquility. We wandered through the various sub-temples, each with its own unique character and charm. Ethan, surprisingly, seemed genuinely interested in the Zen gardens, perhaps drawn in by their simple yet profound beauty. Olivia, always seeking a deeper understanding, spent time reading about the history and philosophy behind Zen Buddhism. I found myself captivated by the aqueduct within the temple grounds, a testament to human ingenuity and a reminder of the importance of infrastructure, something near and dear to my heart.


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

As evening approached, we treated ourselves to a truly special dinner at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION. This was a splurge, no doubt, but well worth it. The Kobe beef was melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the chefs prepared it with such skill and precision. Ethan, usually a picky eater, devoured every last bite. Olivia and I savored each morsel, appreciating the artistry and the quality of the ingredients. It was an unforgettable culinary experience, and a perfect way to celebrate our day of exploration.


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

To cap off the evening, I managed to sneak out for a quick drink at L'Escamoteur, a quirky little bar known for its creative cocktails. The bartender was a true mixologist, crafting drinks that were as visually stunning as they were delicious. I tried a concoction with local sake and yuzu, a refreshing and unique flavor combination. It was a nice way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.


Discover L'Escamoteur, Kyoto's enchanting cocktail bar where artistry meets mixology in a whimsical atmosphere. Unforgettable drinks await!

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Kyoto Station's Great Staircase, Toei Kyoto Studio Park, and the Kyoto Railway Museum. Ethan is particularly excited about the Studio Park, where he can immerse himself in the world of samurai and ninja. Olivia is looking forward to the Railway Museum, as she's always been fascinated by trains. And I'm eager to see the architectural marvel that is Kyoto Station. We'll also be trying out Masayoshi Japanese Dining for breakfast, Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi for lunch, and Kikunoi Roan for dinner, so stay tuned for more culinary adventures!

Being here in Kyoto, experiencing its blend of ancient traditions and modern life, reminds me why I started this blog in the first place. It's about sharing these moments, these discoveries, with all of you. It's about inspiring others to step outside their comfort zones and explore the world, one adventure at a time. And, of course, it's about creating lasting memories with my family, memories that we'll cherish for years to come. Even if I did forget the power adapter and Olivia had to remind me to pack a light sweater, hey, at least we're doing it together!

Until tomorrow, safe travels!