Family Exploration of Kyoto's Cultural Treasures

Kyoto's Tranquil Embrace

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the serene beauty of Kyoto's parks and temples with the vibrant energy of its shopping streets. It’s amazing how a single day can hold so much, leaving you feeling both refreshed and invigorated. Join me as I recount our adventures, from the peaceful gardens to the bustling marketplaces.


Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Komefuku. I opted for the traditional Japanese breakfast set, a delightful array of grilled fish, miso soup, and pickled vegetables. Olivia, ever the fan of Western cuisine, enjoyed a simple toast with jam, while Ethan devoured a bowl of rice with gusto. It's funny how even on vacation, our food preferences remain so consistent. Fuelled up, we were ready to explore.


Our first stop was Maruyama Park, a sprawling green space that’s particularly stunning during cherry blossom season – though even now, weeks after their peak, the park still held an undeniable charm. The air was fresh and crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. We strolled along the winding paths, admiring the meticulously manicured trees and the vibrant flowerbeds bursting with color. Ethan, as usual, was in high spirits, chasing pigeons and attempting to climb every interesting-looking rock he could find. Olivia and I took turns snapping photos, trying to capture the park's serene beauty.


Experience the natural beauty of Maruyama Park in Kyoto, a serene oasis filled with cherry blossoms and cultural heritage.

We eventually found ourselves near the park's iconic weeping cherry tree, a majestic specimen that, even without its blossoms, commanded attention. A small crowd had gathered around it, quietly admiring its graceful form. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over me, a feeling that’s become synonymous with our time in Kyoto. It’s moments like these that make traveling with family so rewarding, sharing these experiences and creating memories that will last a lifetime.


From Maruyama Park, we made our way to Chionin Temple, a short walk away. The temple's massive Sanmon gate, one of the largest in Japan, immediately impressed upon us the scale and grandeur of the place. Ethan's eyes widened as he took in the sheer size of the structure, peppering me with questions about its history and construction. I did my best to answer, drawing on snippets from our guidebook and my own (somewhat limited) knowledge of Japanese architecture.


Explore the serene beauty of Chionin Temple, a historic Buddhist site in Kyoto, offering spiritual insight and breathtaking architecture.

Inside the temple grounds, we explored the various halls and gardens, each offering a unique glimpse into the world of Buddhist worship. The main hall, with its towering ceiling and intricate carvings, was particularly awe-inspiring. We watched as monks chanted sutras, their voices resonating through the hall and creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere. Even Ethan, usually restless, seemed captivated by the scene, standing quietly and observing with wide-eyed curiosity.


After a morning of cultural immersion, our stomachs began to rumble. We decided to try Khaos Spice Diner for lunch, a surprising choice given our location in the heart of traditional Kyoto. But the promise of spicy Thai food was too tempting to resist. The restaurant was small and unassuming, but the aroma wafting from the kitchen was intoxicating. We ordered a variety of dishes, from Pad Thai to green curry, and devoured them with gusto. It was a welcome change of pace from the more traditional Japanese fare we’d been eating, and Ethan particularly enjoyed the novelty of the spicy flavors.


Discover authentic Japanese curry at Khaos Spice Diner in Kyoto – a flavorful experience awaits you!

Sometimes, the most unexpected experiences are the ones that leave the biggest impression.

With our appetites satisfied, we set out to explore Kyoto Sanjo Shopping Street, a bustling covered arcade that stretches for several blocks. The street was packed with people, a mix of locals and tourists, all eager to browse the myriad of shops and stalls. From traditional crafts to modern fashion, there was something for everyone.


Discover the essence of Kyoto at Sanjo Shopping Street, where tradition meets modernity in a vibrant shopping and dining experience.

Olivia, a self-confessed shopaholic, was in her element, flitting from store to store and examining every item with meticulous care. Ethan, surprisingly, also seemed to enjoy the experience, drawn in by the colorful displays and the promise of finding a unique souvenir. I, on the other hand, found the crowds a bit overwhelming and preferred to observe from the sidelines, occasionally offering my opinion on Olivia's potential purchases.


We ended up buying a variety of items, from a beautiful silk scarf for Olivia to a miniature samurai sword for Ethan. I even treated myself to a new lens for my camera, hoping to capture even better photos of our remaining adventures. As the afternoon wore on, we decided to take a break from shopping and ducked into a small tea house for a traditional matcha tea ceremony.


The ceremony was a serene and meditative experience, a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of the shopping street. The tea master, a gracious and elderly woman, explained the intricate steps involved in preparing and serving the tea. We watched in fascination as she whisked the matcha powder into hot water, creating a frothy green liquid. The taste was bitter and earthy, but strangely refreshing. It was a fitting end to a day of contrasts, a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the vibrant energy of Kyoto.


For dinner, we ventured to Yasakadori Enraku, a restaurant known for its traditional Kyoto cuisine. The atmosphere was elegant and refined, and the food was exquisite. We sampled a variety of local delicacies, from delicate sashimi to savory grilled meats. It was a fitting end to a day of culinary exploration, a chance to savor the flavors of Kyoto and reflect on our experiences.


Experience the artistry of Kaiseki dining at Yasakadori Enraku in Kyoto – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much we had packed into a single day. From the serene beauty of Maruyama Park to the bustling energy of Kyoto Sanjo Shopping Street, we had experienced a wide range of sights, sounds, and sensations. It’s these contrasts that make Kyoto such a fascinating city, a place where ancient traditions coexist with modern sensibilities. As we head back to the Carta Hotel KyotoBettei, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family.


Discover the charm of Kyoto at Carta Hotel KyotoBettei, a cozy and affordable stay with easy access to iconic attractions and modern amenities.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Higashiyama Jisho-ji (Ginkaku-ji), Shimogamo Shrine, and Kamigamo Shrine. I'm particularly excited about seeing the Silver Pavilion and exploring the ancient shrines. And perhaps, if we have time, we'll even stop by the Turquoise Bar for a relaxing evening drink. Until then, o-yasumi nasai (good night) from Kyoto!


One thing I did forget to pack was a light sweater for the cooler evenings, which I will need to remember for the rest of the trip, and especially for our evening at the Turquoise Bar tomorrow. It would have been useful tonight too!


We also visited Tōdai-ji today. We had initially planned to visit it on a different day, but decided to move it forward, so that we could fit in the Sanjo Shopping Street.


Discover Tōdai-ji, the majestic Buddhist temple in Nara, Japan, home to the Great Buddha and a symbol of Japan's rich cultural heritage.