Family Cultural Exploration in Kyoto

Kyoto's Golden Embrace & Whispering Bamboo

Today was nothing short of magical, a day where the ancient spirit of Kyoto revealed itself in golden temples, whispering bamboo forests, and serene gardens. Sharing this experience with Hans made it even more special, creating memories we'll cherish long after we return to Berlin. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to immerse myself in cultures so different from my own and to find beauty in the unexpected.

Our day began with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Yasakadori Enraku. The restaurant, tucked away behind Kennin-ji Temple, was an oasis of calm. The private room, with its tatami mats and serene atmosphere, was the perfect setting to enjoy a meal of delicately flavored dashi and Kyoto pickles. It was a delightful start, setting a peaceful tone for the adventures that awaited us.


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

From there, we journeyed to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. As we approached, the temple shimmered into view, its golden facade radiant against the winter sky. I’d seen pictures, of course, but nothing prepared me for the sheer brilliance of the temple reflecting in the Kyoko-chi Pond. The bare trees and the crisp air added to the sense of timeless beauty. The temple was indeed covered in snow. It felt like stepping into a postcard, a perfect embodiment of Kyoto's ethereal beauty. I remembered reading that the pavilion is covered in gold leaf, and it truly felt like a treasure brought to life.


Explore Kinkaku-ji, the breathtaking Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, where history and nature blend beautifully in a tranquil setting.

The Golden Pavilion is more than just a building; it's a reflection of Kyoto's soul, a place where history, spirituality, and natural beauty converge.

After soaking in the splendor of Kinkaku-ji, we headed west to Arashiyama, eager to lose ourselves in the famed Bamboo Forest. As we stepped onto the path, the towering bamboo stalks enveloped us, creating a world of emerald green. The sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, casting dappled shadows on the path. The air was cool and still, filled only with the gentle rustling of the bamboo leaves. It was a truly immersive experience, a world away from the bustling city. Hans, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the sheer scale of the forest and the way the bamboo swayed in the breeze, creating a mesmerizing dance.


Discover the serene beauty of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, a tranquil escape filled with towering bamboo groves and enchanting pathways.

Emerging from the Bamboo Forest, we found ourselves at Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple's Sogenchi Garden was a masterpiece of Zen landscape design. The pond, with its carefully placed rocks and meticulously pruned trees, created a sense of tranquility and harmony. We spent a long time wandering through the garden, admiring the way the designers had used the surrounding mountains as a backdrop, creating a sense of infinite space. I was particularly struck by the arrangement of stones representing the Dragon Gate Falls, a reminder of the Zen ideal of enlightenment. The bare trees of winter accentuated the stark simplicity of the rock gardens. It was easy to see why this garden is considered one of the finest examples of Zen landscape design in Japan.


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.

For lunch, we ventured into Arash's Kitchen, a Persian and Indian Halal restaurant. It was an unexpected find, but the aroma of spices drew us in. The food was delicious and comforting. It was a welcome change from the traditional Japanese cuisine we'd been enjoying. The warm hospitality of the owner, Arash, made us feel right at home. It was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing famous sights but also about connecting with people from different cultures.


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

As evening approached, we made our way back to Gion, the geisha district, for dinner at Gion Mikaku. This restaurant, specializing in Wagyu beef, promised a culinary experience to remember. The restaurant overlooked the Shirakawa River, and the ambiance was intimate and romantic. We savored every bite of the tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef, expertly prepared by the chef. The garlic rice was a revelation, perfectly complementing the richness of the meat. It was the perfect end to a day filled with beauty and wonder.


Discover Gion Mikaku, where exceptional steak meets authentic Japanese culture in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district.

After dinner, we decided to explore Kyoto's nightlife with a visit to L'Escamoteur, a bar known for its creative cocktails and magical atmosphere. The bartender, a charming Frenchman, mixed our drinks with flair, adding a touch of theater to the experience. The bar was small and intimate, filled with a mix of locals and tourists, all enjoying the unique ambiance. It felt like stepping into another world, a place where anything was possible. We chatted with fellow travelers, sharing stories and laughter, before heading back to our hotel, our hearts full of joy and gratitude.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, with its thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding up the mountainside. Then, we'll explore Nijo Castle, a stunning example of feudal architecture, and the serene Kyoto Imperial Palace. I'm also hoping to do some shopping at the Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade.

Today was a reminder of the power of travel to open our minds and hearts, to connect us with different cultures, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. Kyoto, with its golden temples, whispering bamboo forests, and warm hospitality, has captured a piece of my heart. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

I'm also grateful that I remembered to pack my comfortable walking shoes. However, I am regretting forgetting my umbrella and sunscreen. The weather has been unpredictable, and I could have used both today. A lesson learned for the rest of the trip!