Family Adventure in the Cultural Heart of Kyoto

Farewell, Fair Kyoto!

As our sixteen-day family adventure in Kyoto draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared. Today was a day of serene beauty and culinary exploration, a fitting end to our cultural immersion. While packing our bags at The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Kyoto, a tinge of sadness mixed with gratitude filled the air. Kenji was especially downcast, not wanting to leave the hotel's comfortable embrace. Eleanor and I reminded him of all the wonderful memories we'd made, and promised more adventures to come.


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.

Our day began with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Saishuan Shiraki. The intimate setting and the kindness of the owner made it a memorable experience. It was a delightful way to start our final day in this enchanting city.

Katsura Imperial Villa: A Stroll Through Perfection

After breakfast, we set off to visit the Katsura Imperial Villa. Securing reservations in advance was essential, and I was glad I had taken care of it weeks ago. The villa is located a short walk from Katsura Station, making it easily accessible by train. The meticulous planning evident in every aspect of the villa and its gardens left me in awe. The serene ponds, carefully placed stones, and perfectly manicured trees created a landscape of unparalleled beauty. Kenji was fascinated by the stepping stones across the water, while Eleanor appreciated the subtle elegance of the teahouses. The tour, though conducted in Japanese, was enhanced by the available audio guides in English, providing valuable insights into the villa's history and design.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Katsura Imperial Villa, a historical gem in Kyoto, showcasing exquisite gardens and traditional Japanese architecture.

The beauty of Katsura Imperial Villa lies not just in its aesthetics, but in the harmony between nature and design, a testament to the refined sensibilities of its creators.

The villa, built in the early 1600s, is considered the pinnacle of Japanese architecture and garden design. The villa served as a residence for the Katsura Family, members of Japan's Imperial Family. The tour follows the garden's circular walking trail around the central pond. As we strolled through the gardens, I couldn't help but feel a sense of tranquility wash over me. The sound of the wind rustling through the bamboo groves, the gentle lapping of water against the shore, and the vibrant colors of the meticulously maintained plants created a sensory experience that was both calming and invigorating. It was a perfect way to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the Japanese landscape.

Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace: History and Tranquility

Next on our itinerary was the Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace, located within the Kyoto Imperial Park. Like Katsura, visiting Sento Palace requires joining a free tour by the Imperial Household Agency. The palace, built in 1630 as the retirement palace of Emperor Gomizuno, has a rich history. Although the original buildings were destroyed by fire in 1854 and not rebuilt, the gardens remain a stunning example of Japanese landscape design.


Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace, a key attraction in Kyoto's cultural landscape.

The tour led us through the palace garden, showcasing the North Pond and South Pond areas. The absence of the original buildings allowed us to focus on the natural beauty of the surroundings. Eleanor was particularly impressed by the Omiya Palace, constructed on the Sento grounds in 1867, which now serves as the lodging place for the emperor during his visits to Kyoto. Kenji enjoyed spotting the various birds and fish that inhabited the ponds. The audio guides provided historical context, enriching our understanding of the palace's significance.

Getting to the Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace was straightforward. We took the Karasuma Subway Line from Kyoto Station and disembarked at Marutamachi Station, followed by a short walk to the palace entrance. The accessibility of the location made it convenient for our family, especially with Kenji in tow.

Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade: A Taste of Local Life

After our imperial palace visits, we decided to immerse ourselves in the local atmosphere of Kyoto by visiting the Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade. This lively arcade, located in the Nakagyo Ward, offered a delightful mix of traditional and contemporary shops. As we strolled through the covered street, we explored boutique shops offering handcrafted goods, fashion, and souvenirs. The friendly local vendors were eager to share their stories, adding a personal touch to our shopping experience. It was fun to explore the shops and experience the lively atmosphere.


Discover the heart of Kyoto at Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade, where traditional charm meets modern shopping and dining.

The Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade is located off Sanjo-dori. The vibrant atmosphere was complemented by the numerous food joints and cafes, tempting us with Kyoto's culinary delights. We sampled traditional sweets and snacks, enjoying the arcade's ambiance. The arcade was bustling, reflecting its popularity among locals and tourists alike. I managed to find a beautiful calligraphy set for myself, a reminder of my time practicing Shodo back in Matsumoto.

Kyoto Umemori Sushi School: A Culinary Adventure

For lunch, we had a unique and delightful experience at the Kyoto Umemori Sushi School. This was not just a meal; it was an interactive culinary lesson where we learned to make authentic sushi under the guidance of skilled instructors. The school is conveniently located and easily accessible. Dressed in traditional Japanese aprons, we eagerly followed the instructions, learning to prepare the perfect sushi rice and expertly slice the freshest fish. Kenji was particularly enthusiastic, meticulously crafting his own sushi rolls with a serious expression on his face. Eleanor, ever the supportive wife, cheered us on, capturing the moments with her camera.


Immerse yourself in Japanese culture by mastering sushi-making at Kyoto Umemori Sushi School - an unforgettable culinary adventure awaits!

The experience was both educational and entertaining. We learned about the history and techniques of sushi making, gaining a newfound appreciation for this art form. The highlight, of course, was enjoying our creations for lunch. The sushi was incredibly fresh and delicious, a testament to the quality of the ingredients and our newfound skills. It was a fun and memorable way to connect with Japanese culture through its cuisine.

Kikunoi Roan: A Farewell Dinner to Remember

As our final evening in Kyoto approached, I wanted to ensure a memorable dining experience. After much research, I secured a reservation at Kikunoi Roan, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant known for its modern take on traditional kaiseki cuisine. Located in the heart of Gion, the restaurant exuded an air of elegance and sophistication. The staff were attentive and welcoming, making us feel comfortable from the moment we arrived.


Experience the art of kaiseki dining at Kikunoi Roan in Kyoto - where seasonal flavors meet exquisite presentation.

The kaiseki dinner was a culinary journey, a symphony of flavors and textures that showcased the best of Kyoto's seasonal ingredients. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and expertly prepared. The amuse of tofu with maitake and shiitake mushrooms was a delicate and flavorful start to the meal. The hassun, a plate of appetizers featuring chestnut chips, karasumi, and maple leaf-shaped squid, was an unquestionable success. The sashimi, featuring red sea bream and young amberjack, was incredibly fresh and flavorful.

The steamed course, guji (red Wakasa tilefish) steamed with millet, baby daikon radish, and yuzu peel, was a highlight of the meal. The fish was tender and moist, and the broth was infused with the delicate aroma of yuzu. The rice course, rice with salmon roe, Chinese cabbage soup, and Japanese pickles, was a comforting and satisfying end to the savory courses. The dessert, caramel ice cream with buckwheat flour sponge cake, was a sweet and delightful finale.

Throughout the meal, the staff provided detailed explanations of each dish, enhancing our understanding and appreciation of the cuisine. The English skills of the staff were excellent, making it easy for us to communicate and ask questions. The attentive service and the exquisite cuisine made our farewell dinner at Kikunoi Roan a truly unforgettable experience.

As we savor our last moments in Kyoto, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we've shared. From the serene beauty of the imperial villas to the vibrant atmosphere of the shopping arcade and the culinary delights of the sushi school and kaiseki dinner, Kyoto has captured our hearts. Though tomorrow we leave, the memories of this family adventure will stay with us forever. Perhaps one day, we'll return to explore more of Japan's hidden gems. Until then, arigato, Kyoto!