Family Exploration of Kyoto's Cultural Treasures

Kyoto, Until Next Time

As our Kyoto adventure draws to a close, I find myself filled with a bittersweet mix of emotions. There's a sense of accomplishment, of having truly immersed ourselves in the heart of Japanese culture, but also a pang of sadness knowing that this chapter is ending. Today was all about soaking in those last precious moments, revisiting some of our favorite experiences, and creating a few more memories to cherish. Olivia, Ethan and I wanted to make the most of our final day, ensuring we left no stone unturned and no flavor untasted.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Kizahashi. It's conveniently located in The Thousand Kyoto hotel near the Kyoto Station, which made our morning very smooth. We enjoyed a traditional Japanese breakfast set. The ambiance of the restaurant was serene, with a beautiful view of a meticulously maintained garden. It was the perfect way to mentally prepare for a day of exploring ancient temples and cultural landmarks.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Kizahashi in Kyoto, where seasonal ingredients meet traditional artistry in every dish.

After breakfast, we headed to Tōji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. I was particularly excited to see the five-story pagoda, which dominates the skyline. The sheer scale of the structure is awe-inspiring, a testament to the skill and artistry of the craftsmen who built it centuries ago. Ethan was fascinated by the intricate details of the pagoda, and Olivia, ever the historian, delved into the temple's rich past, sharing interesting facts about its significance in Japanese history. I tried to capture the pagoda from different angles, hoping to get that perfect shot that encapsulates its grandeur.


Experience the majestic Tōji Temple in Kyoto, home to Japan's tallest pagoda and a serene escape into Buddhist history and culture.

Inside the Kondo Hall, we were greeted by the imposing Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha) statue, flanked by Nikkō Bosatsu and Gakkō Bosatsu. The serene expressions on their faces and the intricate details of their robes were captivating. We spent a good amount of time admiring these statues, feeling a sense of peace and tranquility wash over us. The temple grounds themselves were meticulously maintained, with carefully manicured gardens and serene pathways that invited quiet contemplation.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its temples and gardens, but in the way it seamlessly blends the ancient with the modern, creating a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

Next on our itinerary was Daitoku-ji Temple, a sprawling complex of sub-temples, each with its own unique character and charm. We wandered through the grounds, admiring the traditional architecture and the meticulously raked Zen gardens. Each sub-temple offered a different perspective on Zen Buddhism, from the minimalist rock gardens to the lush, moss-covered landscapes. Ethan enjoyed exploring the maze-like pathways, discovering hidden corners and tranquil spots. Olivia was drawn to the historical significance of the temple, learning about its connection to prominent figures in Japanese history.


Explore the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Daitoku-ji Temple, a historic Buddhist temple complex in Kyoto, Japan.

One of the sub-temples that stood out was Koto-in Temple, with its long and beautiful entryway through a bamboo forest. The path, turning three times and passing through three gates, created a sense of passage from the secular world to a deeper, spiritual realm. Ryogen-in Temple, built in 1502, housed Japan's smallest rock garden, a miniature landscape filled with symbolic meaning. We spent time contemplating the whirling patterns of the Kodatei Garden, said to represent the inhalation and exhalation of breath, a fitting metaphor for Zen meditation.

Our final temple visit of the day was to Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to Sugawara Michizane, the god of learning. As we approached the shrine, we noticed many students offering prayers for academic success. The shrine was adorned with lanterns and brass coverings, adding to its mystical ambiance. The plum blossoms were in full bloom, painting the landscape in hues of purple and pink. Even though it wasn’t the 25th of the month, when the famous flea market takes place, the shrine was bustling with activity and filled with a sense of reverence and hope.


Experience the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, a must-visit Shinto shrine in the heart of Kyoto.

For lunch, we indulged in a tempura feast at Yoshikawa. Located in a traditional wooden building, the restaurant exuded an old-world charm. We sat at the counter, watching the chefs expertly prepare each piece of tempura, ensuring that it was perfectly crisp and light. The tempura ochazuke, a dish of green tea poured over rice and tempura, was a delightful culinary experience. Each piece of tempura was a work of art, from the eggplant to the winter eel. Olivia was impressed by the chef's attention to detail, while Ethan eagerly devoured each bite, declaring it the best tempura he had ever tasted.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Yoshikawa, where tradition meets exceptional flavors in the heart of Kyoto.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Kyoto Star Bar for a final toast to our Kyoto adventure. This Ginza-based bar offers a unique experience. The bartender, dressed in a traditional kimono, welcomed us with warm hospitality. I opted for one of their signature cocktails, a Ki No Bi Negroni, while Olivia enjoyed a classic whisky sour. Ethan, of course, stuck to his usual apple juice, but he enjoyed the sophisticated ambiance of the bar. Sipping our drinks, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip, from the serene beauty of the temples to the vibrant energy of the markets.


Discover the perfect blend of cocktails and coffee at Kyoto Star Bar, a stylish retreat in the heart of Kyoto's vibrant nightlife.

Tomorrow, we embark on our journey back home, filled with memories that will last a lifetime. Kyoto has captured our hearts with its timeless beauty, its rich culture, and its warm hospitality. It's a place that I know we'll return to someday, to explore its hidden corners and rediscover its many charms. As I write this, I raise my glass one last time to Kyoto, a city that has truly enriched our lives.

Trip End

Our Kyoto adventure has come to an end, and as we prepare to leave this enchanting city, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for all the incredible experiences we've had. From the serene temples to the bustling markets, from the exquisite cuisine to the warm hospitality, Kyoto has truly captured our hearts. It's a place that I know we'll cherish forever, and I hope that my blog has inspired you to embark on your own journey to discover the magic of Kyoto. Until next time, sayōnara!