Family Cultural Immersion in Kyoto

Farewell, Kyoto

As our ten-day journey through Kyoto draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family. Today was a blend of spiritual exploration, tranquil contemplation, and a final taste of Kyoto's exquisite cuisine. It’s amazing how quickly time flies when you're immersed in such a rich tapestry of culture and history. I’m already anticipating sharing our stories and photos with friends back in Stratford, and maybe even inspiring some of them to embark on their own Japanese adventure.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hyoto Shijo Karasuma. Elena and Miguel were particularly excited about the *dashi* shabu-shabu, a local favorite. The delicate broth and fresh ingredients were the perfect start to a day of exploration. It reminded me of the simple yet satisfying flavors of home-cooked Filipino meals. I think I'll try to recreate this dish when we get back, maybe adding my own little twist to it.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors with exquisite hot pot and Kaiseki dishes at Hyoto Shijo Karasuma in Kyoto.

After breakfast, we set off to the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant red *torii* gates winding up the mountain. The sheer scale of the shrine was breathtaking. Even in the winter chill, the energy of the place was palpable. We walked through many of the gates, each step a prayer for prosperity and good fortune. Miguel, ever the energetic one, wanted to climb all the way to the top, but we convinced him to save some energy for our next destination. The bright vermillion color of the gates against the backdrop of the serene forest created a striking contrast, and the occasional fox statues – Inari's messengers – added to the mystical atmosphere. I managed to capture some great photos, which I know my genealogy group back home will appreciate, given the historical significance of the site. Elena bought a small fox charm for good luck, and I couldn't help but think of how much this trip has brought us closer as a family.


Explore the enchanting Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto's iconic Shinto shrine famous for its thousands of vibrant torii gates and breathtaking mountain trails.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its temples and shrines, but in the quiet moments of reflection and connection it inspires.

Next on our itinerary was Ryoan-ji, a Zen temple renowned for its enigmatic rock garden. The garden consists of fifteen rocks arranged in such a way that, from any vantage point, only fourteen can be seen at once. This simple yet profound design invites contemplation and introspection. As I sat there, gazing at the carefully raked gravel and the moss-covered stones, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. It was a far cry from the hustle and bustle of my data analysis job, but a welcome change. Elena and I spent a good hour simply sitting and observing, trying to decipher the meaning behind the arrangement. Miguel, on the other hand, was more interested in the temple's Kyoyochi Pond, where he spotted a few mandarin ducks. Apparently, this pond was once known as the 'Oshidori Pond' because of these ducks, which added a touch of whimsy to the otherwise austere setting.


Discover the tranquility of Ryōan-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, featuring a world-famous rock garden and serene landscapes that inspire peace and reflection.

For lunch, we decided to try Antonio, a Spanish restaurant recommended by a local. After days of indulging in Japanese cuisine, we were all craving something different. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm, rustic ambiance that reminded me of the small family-run restaurants I used to visit in the Philippines. The owner, a friendly Spanish chef, greeted us with a smile and recommended the *paella*. It was absolutely delicious, cooked to perfection with a generous serving of seafood. Elena, who is a registered nurse, appreciated the fresh ingredients and the balanced flavors. It was a delightful culinary detour that added another layer to our Kyoto experience.


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

In the afternoon, we ventured to Takashimaya Kyoto S.C. for some last-minute shopping. Elena wanted to pick up some traditional crafts as souvenirs, while Miguel was on a mission to find the Nintendo Kyoto store. Takashimaya was a shopper's paradise, with a wide array of goods ranging from high-end fashion to local handicrafts. We spent a couple of hours browsing the various floors, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Miguel, of course, made a beeline for the Nintendo store, where he spent a small fortune on Zelda merchandise. I managed to find a beautiful *ukiyo-e* print for my collection, a perfect reminder of our time in Kyoto. We even took a family photo with Mario on the rooftop, a fun and quirky end to our shopping spree. I'm sure my friends in the Filipino community would be happy to see the photos.


Explore Takashimaya Kyoto S.C. for an unforgettable shopping experience, blending tradition and modernity in the heart of Kyoto.

As evening approached, we made our way to Jiki Miyazawa for our farewell dinner. This *kaiseki* restaurant was a culinary gem, offering a multi-course meal that was both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. Each dish was a work of art, carefully crafted with seasonal ingredients and presented with impeccable attention to detail. The flavors were subtle yet complex, a testament to the chef's skill and creativity. I particularly enjoyed the grilled sesame tofu, a signature dish that took three years to perfect. It was a fitting end to our gastronomic adventure in Kyoto. Elena and I savored every bite, knowing that this was our last taste of Kyoto's culinary magic for now.


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

Our time in Kyoto has been nothing short of magical. From the iconic *torii* gates of Fushimi Inari to the serene rock garden of Ryoan-ji, every moment has been a feast for the senses. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have shared this experience with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. As we prepare to leave Kyoto tomorrow, I know that a part of us will always remain here, in the ancient temples, the bustling markets, and the warm smiles of the people we've met. I’m already planning our next adventure, perhaps a trip to explore the Philippines and reconnect with my roots. But for now, I’ll cherish the memories of our family cultural immersion in Kyoto.

As we head back to the Travelodge Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi, I can't help but feel a tinge of sadness. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it's been a journey of discovery, connection, and shared experiences. I know that we'll be talking about this for years to come, reminiscing about the temples, the food, and the moments that made this trip so special. And who knows, maybe one day we'll return to Kyoto and relive the magic all over again. Until then, *arigato* Kyoto, for the memories and the inspiration. I am excited to return home and share these experiences with my friends and family in Canada. I know that this trip has not only broadened my horizons but has also enriched my life in countless ways.


Experience the vibrant culture of Kyoto at Travelodge Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi—your ideal base for exploring historic sites, shopping, and dining.