Family Adventure in the Cultural Heart of Kyoto

A Day of Modern Kyoto

Today, I traded ancient temples for modern marvels, diving into a different side of Kyoto. It was a day of trains, towers, and trendy finds, offering a fresh perspective on this culturally rich city. Kenji was especially excited, and honestly, his enthusiasm is infectious. Sometimes it's good to mix things up and see what else a place has to offer, and Kyoto certainly didn't disappoint.

Our day began with breakfast at Hyoto Shijo Karasuma. The hotel breakfast buffet was a delightful mix of local and Western cuisine, I particularly enjoyed the Kyoto Oden and the three-color Nyumen noodles. It was a great way to fuel up for a day of exploring. Eleanor appreciated the variety, and Kenji, of course, went straight for the waffles.


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

After breakfast, we headed to the Kyoto Railway Museum. As a software developer, I appreciate engineering and innovation, and this museum was a fantastic showcase of Japan's railway history. The sheer scale of the locomotives was impressive, and Kenji was absolutely captivated. He ran from train to train, pointing and shouting with glee. It was heartwarming to see him so excited. I enjoyed learning about the evolution of the Shinkansen and the impact of railways on Japanese society. The sky terrace offered a great view of the tracks leading into Kyoto Station, watching the Shinkansen and local trains come and go. We even got to climb inside some of the trains, which was a highlight for all of us.


Discover the rich history of railways at the Kyoto Railway Museum, a family-friendly attraction in the heart of Kyoto showcasing trains and interactive exhibits.

Exploring the Kyoto Railway Museum was like stepping back in time, witnessing the evolution of Japanese engineering and the impact of railways on the nation's progress.

Next on our list was the Kyoto Tower. Standing tall in the heart of the city, it offered panoramic views of Kyoto's sprawling landscape. From the observation deck, we could see the distant mountains, the winding Kamo River, and the tiny figures of people below. Kenji loved using the free telescopes to spot famous landmarks like Kiyomizu-dera Temple and To-ji Temple. Eleanor and I appreciated the chance to get our bearings and appreciate the city's layout. The tower itself is a unique structure, built without any steel frame, which is quite remarkable. I read that on clear days you can even see Osaka from the top, but today it was a bit too hazy. Still, the view was well worth the visit. We took some fun family photos with the city as our backdrop.


Experience breathtaking views of Kyoto's skyline and rich history at Nidec Kyoto Tower, a perfect blend of modern architecture and cultural heritage.

After soaking in the views from Kyoto Tower, we decided to do some shopping at Kyoto LOFT. This multi-story emporium is a treasure trove of contemporary Japanese lifestyle products. From innovative home goods to trendy stationery, there was something for everyone. Eleanor was particularly drawn to the unique gifts and souvenirs, while I enjoyed browsing the tech gadgets. Kenji, of course, was fascinated by the colorful toys and stationery. We picked up a few small items as mementos of our trip. I found a beautiful calligraphy set, hoping to rekindle my practice of Shodo when I return to Bristol. Eleanor bought some traditional Japanese fabrics, planning to use them for her sewing projects. And Kenji, well, he got a new Shinkansen toy, naturally.


Explore Kyoto LOFT: A vibrant general store with cosmetics, home goods, and unique novelties in the heart of Kyoto.

For lunch, we stopped at Tategami. The restaurant offered a delightful culinary experience. I opted for a traditional Kyo-ryori set. The presentation was exquisite, and each dish was a delicate balance of flavors and textures. Eleanor chose a seafood dish, while Kenji happily devoured his kid-friendly meal. The ambiance was serene and inviting, providing a welcome respite from the bustling city. I was impressed by the attention to detail and the quality of the ingredients. It was a truly memorable meal.


Experience authentic Kyoto-style Japanese cuisine at Tategami - where tradition meets innovation in every bite.

Our final stop for the day was Gion Mikaku for dinner. This long-standing Wagyu specialty restaurant is known for serving only unbred Tajima female cattle. The restaurant is located along the Shirakawa River, offering breathtaking seasonal views. I opted for the Teppan-yaki steak, while Eleanor chose the grilled shabu-shabu. Kenji was excited about his kid-friendly steak option. The quality of the Wagyu beef was exceptional, and the chef's skillful preparation brought out the natural flavors of the meat. The atmosphere was elegant and refined, making it a perfect ending to our day of modern Kyoto exploration.


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

As we headed back to The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Kyoto, I reflected on the day's adventures. It was a refreshing change of pace from the temples and shrines, offering a glimpse into the modern side of Kyoto. Kenji was already fast asleep, clutching his new Shinkansen toy. Eleanor and I exchanged tired but content smiles. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Sanjūsangendō Temple and Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. I'm looking forward to seeing more of Kyoto's cultural treasures. We might even try to sneak in a visit to UNDERBAR-KYOTO for a nightcap, if we can find a babysitter. Until then, o-yasumi nasai (good night) from Kyoto!


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.

I'm continually reminded how travel enriches our lives, broadening our perspectives and creating lasting memories. As I continue to share our journey, I hope to inspire you to embark on your own adventures, discovering the hidden gems and unique experiences that await in every corner of the world. It's these moments of discovery and connection that make travel so worthwhile, and I'm grateful to have the opportunity to share them with you.

As I prepare for tomorrow's explorations, I can't help but feel a sense of anticipation. Kyoto continues to surprise and delight, and I'm eager to uncover more of its secrets. Each day brings new experiences and insights, and I'm committed to sharing them with you, my readers. Thank you for joining me on this incredible journey. Your support and encouragement mean the world to me, and I'm honored to have you as part of my travel community.