Family Exploration of Kyoto's Cultural Treasures

Whispers of the Bamboo Grove

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the natural beauty and spiritual heart of Kyoto. We ventured into a world of towering bamboo, tranquil temples, and delightful culinary experiences. It was a day where the whispers of the wind carried stories of ancient times, and the serene landscapes offered a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. From the moment we stepped off the train, I knew Arashiyama would capture a piece of my heart.

Our day began with a scenic breakfast at Biwako Terrace. While it wasn't directly in Arashiyama, the short trip was well worth it. The view of Lake Biwa was stunning, especially in the early morning light. Ethan was particularly thrilled, pointing out the boats and birds as we enjoyed a hearty meal. Olivia and I appreciated the serene start to what promised to be a busy day. I have to say, starting the day with such a view really sets the tone for a day of exploration. It reminded me of the mornings back in Show Low, Arizona, watching the sunrise over the mountains – a world away, yet somehow familiar in its beauty.


Experience breathtaking views and delightful flavors at Biwako Terrace - a serene café overlooking Lake Biwa.

After breakfast, we made our way to Arashiyama. The main attraction, of course, was the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. As we stepped into the grove, I was immediately struck by the sheer height of the bamboo stalks. They towered above us, creating a cathedral-like atmosphere with dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy. Ethan was mesmerized, running his hands along the cool, smooth stalks and whispering about being in a giant's garden. The sound of the wind rustling through the bamboo was like a soothing melody, a world away from the construction sites I usually manage back in Hawthorne.


Experience the serene beauty of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, where nature and tranquility come together in a breathtaking landscape.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

We strolled along the winding paths, taking in the surreal beauty of the forest. It's easy to see why this place is so popular; there's something truly magical about being surrounded by such natural grandeur. I tried to capture the essence of the grove with my camera, but no photo could truly do it justice. It's one of those places you have to experience firsthand to fully appreciate. We took our time, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and enjoying the sense of being completely enveloped by nature. The forest is more than just a pretty place to take pictures, it’s an experience.

Next on our list was Tenryu-ji Temple, located right next to the bamboo forest. This temple is the most important in the Arashiyama district and is considered one of Kyoto's Five Great Zen Temples. Founded in 1339 by Ashikaga Takauji, it was built to honor Emperor Go-Daigo. The temple has a rich history, having been destroyed by fires and wars multiple times, but it has always been rebuilt, a testament to its importance. As we walked through the main gate, I couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence wash over me. The architecture was stunning, with intricate details and a sense of timelessness.


Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. A cultural gem for every traveler.

The gardens at Tenryu-ji were particularly impressive. Designed by Muso Soseki, the first head priest of the temple, the landscape garden features a central pond surrounded by rocks, pine trees, and the Arashiyama mountains in the background. It’s a perfect example of borrowed scenery, where the natural landscape is incorporated into the garden design. Ethan enjoyed pointing out the koi fish swimming in the pond, while Olivia and I admired the carefully manicured trees and the serene atmosphere. The Sogenchi Garden was particularly special. Created by Muso Soseki about 700 years ago, it is designated as Japan's first Historic Site and Special Place of Scenic Beauty. The Ryumon Waterfall, featuring a large standing rock in the center of Sogen Pond, was a sight to behold.

After a morning of exploring, we were ready for lunch. We decided to try Antonio, a local restaurant in Arashiyama. The reviews were good, and we were in the mood for something different from the traditional Japanese cuisine we'd been eating. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were very welcoming. I opted for a pasta dish, while Olivia tried the pizza. Ethan, of course, went for the spaghetti Bolognese, a familiar favorite. The food was delicious, and it was a nice change of pace. It reminded me of some of the little Italian places we used to frequent back in the States.


Discover authentic Spanish flavors at Antonio in Kyoto – where culinary artistry meets vibrant ambiance.

With renewed energy, we ventured into some local shopping at Rōji Tempo. This charming shopping street, reminiscent of the Edo period, offered a variety of traditional crafts and souvenirs. Olivia was particularly interested in the ceramics, while Ethan was drawn to the toy shop. I picked up a few postcards and a small sake set as mementos of our trip. It was fun to wander through the shops, soaking in the atmosphere and browsing the unique items on display. I even managed to find a small, handcrafted wooden toy for Ethan, a little turtle, which he immediately named “Shelly”.


Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Rōji Tempo, where Kyoto's rich culture meets modern retail in a beautiful setting.

As evening approached, we decided to have dinner at Arash's Kitchen. This restaurant, offering Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian dishes, had been recommended to us for its diverse menu and warm hospitality. Chef Arash, fluent in both English and Japanese, greeted us with a smile and helped us navigate the menu. We started with some hummus and pita bread, followed by a selection of kebabs and biryani. The food was flavorful and satisfying, and the portions were generous. Ethan particularly enjoyed the chicken kebabs, while Olivia raved about the biryani. It was a delightful end to a long and fulfilling day. The friendly service and delicious food made us feel right at home, a welcome feeling so far from Hawthorne.


Experience authentic Asian cuisine at Arash's Kitchen in Kyoto—a culinary delight for every traveler seeking unique flavors.

The weather today was perfect for exploring. The clear skies and mild temperatures made walking around Arashiyama a pleasure. It seems we timed our visit just right, as the cherry blossoms were still in bloom, adding an extra layer of beauty to the already stunning scenery. I checked the weather forecast for tomorrow, and it looks like we can expect similar conditions, which is great news for our planned visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine and Tōfuku-ji Temple.

Tomorrow, we're heading to Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. I'm particularly excited about this, as I've seen so many photos of the shrine and can't wait to experience it in person. We'll also be visiting Tōfuku-ji Temple, known for its stunning autumn foliage, although I'm sure it will be beautiful even in the spring. We're planning to have breakfast at Izutsu Yatsuhashi Honpo - Takashimaya Kyoto, lunch at MUGHAL Indian Restaurant & Bar, and dinner at Hafuu. And if we have time, we might even stop by The Common One Bar Kyoto for a drink in the evening.

As I sit here writing this, reflecting on our day in Arashiyama, I feel a sense of contentment wash over me. It was a day filled with natural beauty, spiritual enrichment, and delightful culinary experiences. It's moments like these, shared with my family, that make all the hard work and sacrifices worthwhile. Kyoto has a way of captivating your soul, and I'm already looking forward to what tomorrow will bring.

Arashiyama is a place where you can truly escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the extraordinary. It's a place where the whispers of the past mingle with the beauty of the present, creating an experience that will stay with you long after you've left. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Kyoto. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Arashiyama has something to offer everyone. And for me, it was a day of creating lasting memories with my family, a treasure I will cherish forever.

The blend of fresh air, ancient history, and the smiles on my family's faces is enough to recharge me for the next construction project, or maybe even brewing a new batch of beer when I get home. But for now, I'll dream of bamboo forests and the quiet strength they represent.