Family Adventure in the Cultural Heart of Kyoto

Kyoto's Quiet Charms

Today was a beautiful blend of nature, history, and expertly crafted cocktails. Kyoto continues to surprise me with its ability to offer both serene escapes and vibrant experiences, sometimes within mere steps of each other. It's a city that caters to every mood, and today, I embraced a little bit of everything.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Anzukko. The gyoza was amazing, with a crispy outside and a juicy, flavorful filling. Kenji especially loved the Camembert gyoza, which was a surprising but delicious combination. Eleanor and I enjoyed the more traditional flavors, but we all agreed it was a great start to the day.


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

With our bellies full, we headed to the Kyoto Botanical Gardens. It was a beautiful morning, with broken clouds and a comfortable temperature of around 16°C. The gardens were in full bloom, with cherry blossoms still clinging to the branches and tulips adding pops of color throughout the landscape. The Kyoto Botanical Gardens were established in 1924, and it shows. There are many attractions, including a native forest that's full of local plants and flowers in all seasons and beautiful irises. With about 500 cherry trees from 180 varieties, it's almost like a living cherry blossom museum. I took the opportunity to practice my photography, capturing the delicate details of the flowers and the vibrant green of the new leaves. Kenji, of course, was more interested in running around and exploring, but even he stopped to admire the beauty of the gardens from time to time.


Explore the Kyoto Botanical Gardens, a tranquil oasis showcasing diverse flora and stunning landscapes in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

After a refreshing morning surrounded by nature, we journeyed to Kamigamo Shrine. This ancient Shinto shrine is one of Kyoto's oldest and most important, and it was easy to feel its history as we walked through the grounds. The architecture was stunning, with intricate details and a sense of timelessness. We took our time exploring the various buildings and gardens, learning about the shrine's significance and its role in Kyoto's cultural heritage.


Experience the beauty and spirituality of Kamigamo Shrine, a historic Shinto sanctuary in Kyoto surrounded by lush nature and rich cultural heritage.

We had lunch at Komefuku, a restaurant specializing in tempura and seafood. We opted for the lunch set, which was a great value and allowed us to sample a variety of dishes. The tempura was light and crispy, and the seafood was incredibly fresh. Kenji enjoyed the tempura rice bowl, while Eleanor and I savored the sushi and sashimi. It was a satisfying and delicious meal that gave us the energy we needed for the rest of the day.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Komefuku in Kyoto, renowned for its fresh seafood and exquisite tempura dishes.

In the evening, after putting Kenji to bed, Eleanor and I decided to treat ourselves to a nightcap at Bar K6. This renowned bar is known for its master bartenders and exquisite cocktails, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. The atmosphere was sophisticated and intimate, with soft lighting and comfortable seating. We ordered a couple of their signature cocktails, and they were expertly crafted and beautifully presented. It was the perfect way to unwind after a long day of exploring.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Bar K6, where traditional Japanese drinks meet modern bar culture in a cozy setting.

Bar K6 is known for its seasonal cocktails, whiskey, and overall exquisite experience, making you want to return again and again. The bartenders are true artisans, and they take pride in their craft. They are also incredibly knowledgeable and can recommend the perfect drink based on your preferences. The bar itself is small and intimate, which adds to its charm. It's the kind of place where you can relax and enjoy a conversation with your travel partner or strike up a conversation with the bartenders.

As I sipped my cocktail, I reflected on the day's experiences. From the serene beauty of the Botanical Gardens to the historical significance of Kamigamo Shrine and the sophisticated ambiance of Bar K6, Kyoto had once again captivated me with its diverse offerings. It's a city that continues to surprise and delight, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Gion Corner and Maruyama Park. I'm particularly excited to see Gion Corner, as it offers a glimpse into Kyoto's traditional arts and culture. I've heard that the performances are captivating, and I'm eager to experience them firsthand. Maruyama Park is also supposed to be beautiful, with its weeping cherry trees and serene atmosphere. I'm looking forward to another day of discovery in this enchanting city.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a note to buy an umbrella and extra memory cards, remembering the travel essentials we forgot. As I closed my eyes, I felt a deep sense of contentment, knowing that we were creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Food Notes:

Anzukko: Gyoza was a hit, especially the Camembert flavor.
Komefuku: Excellent tempura and fresh seafood, great lunch sets.
Bar K6: Expertly crafted cocktails in a sophisticated atmosphere.

Tomorrow's Itinerary:

Gion Corner: Traditional arts and culture performances.
Maruyama Park: Weeping cherry trees and serene atmosphere.
Fujiya: Breakfast to start the day.
Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi: Lunch in a scenic location.
French Dining Top of Kyoto: Dinner with a view.
Kyoto Porta: Shopping for souvenirs and local crafts.

Until tomorrow, sayonara!