Family Adventure in the Cultural Heart of Kyoto

Finding Peace and Potions in Kyoto

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the serene beauty of Kyoto's gardens and temples with a touch of the unexpected. It's amazing how a single day can encapsulate so much of what makes this city special – the ancient traditions, the natural beauty, and the modern, quirky surprises that lie around every corner. I was especially excited to explore more of Kyoto with Eleanor and Kenji, creating memories we’ll cherish long after we’ve returned to Bristol.

Our day began with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Masayoshi Japanese Dining. The restaurant was charming, and the meal set a perfect tone for the day. I opted for the grilled fish set, while Eleanor enjoyed the tamagoyaki. Kenji, of course, was thrilled with his rice and miso soup. It's these simple, authentic experiences that really make a trip memorable.

From there, we headed to Heian Shrine. This stunning shrine, with its vibrant vermilion architecture, is a relatively recent addition to Kyoto's historical landscape, built in 1895 to commemorate the city's 1100th anniversary. As we approached, the grandeur of the Otenmon Gate was immediately striking. The vast courtyard, meticulously laid with white gravel, led us to the Daigokuden (Hall of State), a scaled-down replica of the original Imperial Palace from the Heian period. The architecture was magnificent, and it was easy to imagine the emperors of old holding court in such a regal setting.


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

The gardens at Heian Shrine were in full bloom, with cherry blossoms providing a stunning backdrop to the traditional Japanese landscaping. We strolled through the meticulously designed ponds, crossed quaint bridges, and admired the carefully pruned trees. The air was filled with the sweet scent of cherry blossoms, and the gentle breeze carried the sound of distant music. I learned that the Sakura Otoyo, or Cherry Blossom Sound Night, had just concluded a few days prior, which featured illuminated cherry blossoms and musical performances. Even without the special event, the gardens were enchanting, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its ancient temples and serene gardens, but also in its ability to surprise and delight at every turn.

After immersing ourselves in the beauty of Heian Shrine, we set off for the Philosopher's Path. This tranquil walkway follows a canal lined with hundreds of cherry trees, making it one of Kyoto's most beloved spots, especially during cherry blossom season. As we strolled along the path, the falling cherry blossom petals created a mesmerizing effect. The path was alive with activity, but the atmosphere remained serene, with locals and tourists alike taking their time to soak in the beauty of the surroundings. Eleanor and Kenji were particularly captivated by the little details – the tiny shrines tucked away amongst the trees, the colorful koi swimming in the canal, and the quaint cafes and shops that lined the path.


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

For lunch, we decided to try AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO, a vegan restaurant I had read about that offered plant-based versions of Western dishes. Eleanor, always keen to explore new culinary horizons, was particularly enthusiastic. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I opted for the vegan burger, while Eleanor tried the mushroom hayashi rice, and Kenji, ever the adventurous eater, chose the vegan pancakes. The food was surprisingly delicious, and it was a refreshing change of pace from the traditional Japanese cuisine we had been enjoying. It was interesting to see how they recreated familiar flavors using plant-based ingredients, and I was impressed by the creativity and skill of the chefs. I was also happy to discover that this restaurant was vegan, as Eleanor has been experimenting with vegan recipes back in Bristol.


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

As evening approached, we decided to venture into the world of Kyoto's nightlife. I had heard about L'Escamoteur, a bar known for its unique cocktails and magical atmosphere, and I thought it would be a fun and memorable experience. We managed to find the place without too much trouble, and as we stepped inside, we were immediately transported to another world. The bar was dimly lit, with quirky decorations and a distinctly European vibe. The bartender, a charismatic Frenchman, greeted us warmly and began to craft our cocktails with flair and precision. He even performed a few magic tricks as he mixed the drinks, much to Kenji's delight. The cocktails themselves were inventive and delicious, and the atmosphere was lively and convivial. It was a perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.


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

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Kyoto has to offer. From the grandeur of Heian Shrine to the tranquility of the Philosopher's Path, from the innovative vegan cuisine to the magical cocktails, every experience was unique and memorable. It's a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, offering something for everyone. I am grateful to be able to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. As we head back to our hotel, The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Kyoto, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, which include visits to Ryoan-ji and Ninna-ji Temple. I am particularly excited to see the rock garden at Ryoan-ji, and I hope that the weather will be as pleasant as it was today.


Experience the perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional charm at The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Kyoto, your ideal base for exploring this historic city.

Before I close this entry, I wanted to share a quote that resonated with me today:

Travel is more than seeing the sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.

This trip to Kyoto has already had a profound impact on me, and I am eager to see what the rest of our journey holds.

Until tomorrow,
Shota.