Family Cultural Exploration in Kyoto

A Day of Reflection and Revelations

Today in Kyoto was a journey through the heart of Japanese culture, a blend of tranquil reflection and vibrant encounters. It was a day where ancient paths met modern flavors, and where the whispers of philosophers mingled with the laughter of geishas. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to immerse myself in the tapestry of a place and emerge with a richer understanding of the world.

Our day began with a delightful vegan breakfast at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO. I must admit, I was a bit skeptical about a completely vegan restaurant, but Hans, ever the adventurous one, insisted we try it. And what a pleasant surprise it was! The restaurant had a cozy and warmly lit atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I opted for the matcha pancakes, having read rave reviews, and they were indeed heavenly – fluffy, light, and generously topped with soy ice cream and whipped cream. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration.


Discover exquisite vegan delights at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO – where culinary creativity meets sustainable living.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set out for the famed Philosopher's Path. The path, a serene canal-side walk, promised a contemplative experience. Although February isn't the season for cherry blossoms, the path held a quiet beauty. The bare branches of the cherry trees reached towards the sky, their silhouettes reflected in the still waters of the canal. I imagined how stunning this place must be in spring, when the trees are in full bloom, creating a tunnel of pink.


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

As we strolled along, I couldn't help but think of Nishida Kitaro, the philosopher for whom the path is named. I wondered what thoughts occupied his mind as he walked this very path each day. Did he ponder the meaning of life? The nature of reality? Or perhaps, like me, he simply enjoyed the tranquility of the surroundings.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

We continued our walk, eventually reaching Gion, Kyoto's geisha district. This area is a stark contrast to the peaceful Philosopher's Path, a vibrant hub of activity. As we wandered through the narrow streets, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. The traditional wooden machiya houses, with their latticed windows and paper lanterns, exuded an old-world charm. I imagined geishas gracefully gliding through these streets, their elaborate kimonos rustling in the wind.


Explore Gion, Kyoto's iconic geisha district, where tradition meets charm in a captivating blend of culture and history.

We explored Hanamikoji Street, the main street of Gion, lined with tea houses, bars, and restaurants. While it's not always easy to spot a geisha, we were fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of one disappearing into a tea house. It was a fleeting moment, but one that I'll always remember.

For lunch, we ventured to Masayoshi Japanese Dining. The restaurant was stylishly renovated from a 150-year-old Kyoto townhouse. We enjoyed delicious steaks made with carefully selected black wagyu beef. The quality wagyu captivated us with its rich flavor. The elegant atmosphere truly embodied the essence of Kyoto.


Experience authentic Japanese steakhouse dining at Masayoshi in Kyoto—where tradition meets culinary excellence.

Our final stop for the day was Kiyomizu-dera, a historic temple perched on a hillside overlooking the city. The temple is renowned for its wooden stage, which offers breathtaking views. As we climbed the steps leading to the temple, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. The sheer scale of the structure, built without the use of nails, was truly impressive.


Experience the serene beauty and spiritual essence of Kiyomizu-dera, an iconic Buddhist temple in Kyoto, renowned for its stunning architecture and breathtaking views.

The views from the stage were simply stunning. Kyoto stretched out before us, a sprawling cityscape dotted with temples, shrines, and gardens. Even in February, the landscape held a certain charm. The snow-dusted rooftops and the distant mountains created a picturesque scene.

Inside the temple, we paid our respects to Kannon, the goddess of compassion. I lit a stick of incense and offered a silent prayer for peace and happiness. As I stood there, surrounded by the serene atmosphere, I felt a sense of calm wash over me.

For dinner, we experienced Jiki Miyazawa. We were lucky to get a seat at the counter, right in front of Izumi-san. The meal was an unforgettable experience. I loved the contrast between hot and cold elements in the dishes. Each dish was prepared meticulously, showcasing the unique characteristics of the ingredients. It was a new wave of Kyoto cuisine, a testament to the motto of ingredients first.


Indulge in an authentic Kaiseki dining experience at Jiki Miyazawa, where seasonal flavors meet exquisite presentation in the heart of Kyoto.

To cap off the evening, we headed to Bar K6. This renowned bar is loved by bar hoppers across Japan. The master bartenders and exquisite cocktails made for a memorable evening. I enjoyed the unique drinks, including a Kyoto dry gin gin and tonic. The welcoming staff and sophisticated atmosphere made it a perfect end to the day.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Bar K6, where traditional Japanese drinks meet modern bar culture in a cozy setting.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude. Kyoto has a way of captivating the soul, of leaving a lasting impression. It's a city where ancient traditions coexist with modern innovations, where tranquility meets excitement. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, when we'll explore the Heian Shrine, the Kyoto Botanical Gardens, and the Higashiyama Jisho-ji. I'm also excited to do some shopping at the Daimaru Kyoto Store. Until then, oyasumi nasai.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Heian Shrine, Kyoto Botanical Gardens and Higashiyama Jisho-ji, and do some shopping at the Daimaru Kyoto Store. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing the Heian Shrine, with its striking architecture and beautiful gardens.

The beauty and serenity I've found here is a welcome contrast to my daily work as a geriatric nurse back in Berlin. Though I love caring for my patients, the intensity of the job can be draining. Immersing myself in a different culture, even for a short time, allows me to recharge and return with a renewed sense of purpose. Hans has been wonderfully supportive, as always. His calm demeanor and adventurous spirit make him the perfect travel companion.

I must remember to buy an umbrella and sunscreen tomorrow. I knew I had forgotten something from my TripEssentials!

Kyoto is a city that truly nourishes the soul, and I'm so grateful to be sharing this experience with my family. I feel so fulfilled, and this has only been day 4 of our trip!