Family Cultural Immersion in Kyoto

Kyoto's Winter Charms: A Day of Temples, Paths, and Hidden Gems

Today in Kyoto was a beautiful blend of serene reflection and delightful indulgence. The crisp January air, while cold, added a certain clarity to the sights and experiences, making everything feel more vivid. I'm always eager to share our family's adventures, and today was no exception. From the vibrant vermilion of Heian Shrine to the quiet contemplation along the Philosopher's Path, Kyoto continued to enchant us.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Arash's Kitchen. It’s always a pleasure to find a place that caters to our diverse tastes, and Arash’s did not disappoint. Elena was thrilled with the halal options, and Miguel enjoyed the naan bread immensely. It reminded me of the flavors of home, a comforting start to a day of exploration. I am always appreciative of familiar tastes when I am far away from Stratford, and Arash's Kitchen was indeed a welcome taste of home.

After breakfast, we headed to the Heian Shrine. The shrine was established in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the relocation of Japan's capital to Heian-kyo. The grandeur of the vermilion buildings against the clear winter sky was breathtaking. The architecture, modeled after the Heian Imperial Palace, transported us back in time. We took our time wandering through the gardens, each section offering a unique seasonal vista. Though winter's touch was evident, the serene tranquility was captivating. Elena, ever the nurturer, was particularly drawn to the peacefulness, remarking how it mirrored the calm she seeks in her nursing work.


Explore Heian Shrine in Kyoto for a serene experience of stunning gardens, rich history, and traditional Japanese architecture.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its grand temples, but also in the quiet moments of reflection found along its ancient paths.

Next on our itinerary was the Philosopher's Path. This route, which follows a canal lined with cherry trees, is said to be named after a philosopher who used to walk it daily in contemplation. Though the cherry blossoms were still months away, the path held its own charm. The stillness of winter allowed for a deeper connection with nature, and we enjoyed a peaceful stroll, broken only by the occasional cyclist or fellow traveler. Miguel, usually glued to his phone, seemed to appreciate the quiet, even engaging in a conversation about the nature of contemplation. I must admit that I was surprised at Miguel's engagement with the location, as he is normally more interested in the modern aspects of travel. I was glad to see him appreciating the beauty of the Philosopher's Path.


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

Our walk led us to Higashiyama Jisho-ji, also known as Ginkaku-ji or the Silver Pavilion. While not as ostentatious as its golden counterpart, Ginkaku-ji possessed a subtle elegance that resonated deeply. The gardens were meticulously maintained, and the sand sculptures, Ginshadan and Kogetsudai, were particularly striking. The history of the temple, founded by Ashikaga Yoshimasa, added another layer of depth to the experience. As we explored, I couldn’t help but think of the contrast between the Silver and Golden Pavilions, each representing a different facet of Japanese aesthetics. The Silver Pavilion embodies the concept of *wabi-sabi*, and its understated beauty was indeed captivating.


Explore the serene beauty of Higashiyama Jisho-ji, a tranquil Buddhist temple in Kyoto, known for its stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.

For lunch, we ventured to Anzukko, a gyoza bar near Sanjo Station. This small restaurant is known for its inventive gyoza, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. Elena and I shared a plate of their signature Anzukko Gyoza, while Miguel opted for the Camembert cheese gyoza. Each bite was a burst of flavor, and the cozy atmosphere added to the experience. It was a delightful culinary interlude, and we left feeling satisfied and energized for the rest of the day.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Anzukko in Kyoto - renowned for exquisite gyoza and vibrant izakaya atmosphere.

As evening approached, we made our way to THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO for dinner. This restaurant, set in a beautifully restored traditional building, offered a sophisticated dining experience. The Italian cuisine was exquisite, and the ambiance was both elegant and inviting. We enjoyed a leisurely meal, savoring each dish and reflecting on the day's adventures. The setting was particularly special, with the restaurant's gardens providing a stunning backdrop. Elena appreciated the elegant atmosphere, and Miguel, surprisingly, seemed to enjoy the refined cuisine.


Discover the perfect blend of Italian culinary artistry and traditional Japanese ambiance at The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto.

To cap off the evening, I decided to explore a local bar and ventured to Bar Fishbowl. The bar's unique aquarium setting was a delightful surprise, and I enjoyed a quiet drink while watching the fish swim by. It was a quirky and memorable way to end a day filled with cultural immersion and culinary delights. I was also keen to sample some Japanese whisky, and Bar Fishbowl certainly delivered on that front.


Discover Kyoto's nightlife at Bar Fishbowl, a cocktail haven with stunning views and expertly crafted drinks in the heart of the city.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Nanzen-ji and Eikandō Temple, continuing our exploration of Kyoto's rich cultural heritage. We will also be visiting the Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade, where I hope to pick up some souvenirs for friends and family back in Canada. I am particularly excited to visit Nanzen-ji, as I have heard that it is one of the most important Zen temples in Japan. I am sure that Elena and Miguel will also enjoy the visit. I am also keen to try some local sake, and I am hoping to find a good sake bar in the area.

As I reflect on today, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Kyoto continues to surprise and delight, and I am eager to see what tomorrow brings. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I am particularly grateful for the chance to share these experiences with Elena and Miguel, as they are the most important people in my life. I am also grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with you, my readers, as I hope that my words can inspire you to embark on your own adventures.

Until tomorrow,
Rogelio