Family Adventure in the Cultural Heart of Kyoto

Day 10: Finding Peace and Energy in Kyoto

Today was a day of exploring some of Kyoto's most iconic spiritual sites. It's amazing how much history and culture is packed into this city, and I was excited to share these experiences with Eleanor and Kenji. It's days like these that make our family trips so memorable, blending the excitement of discovery with moments of quiet reflection.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Arancino Kyoto. The reviews I had read online raved about their Italian cuisine with a Japanese twist, and it certainly lived up to the hype. I opted for one of their pasta dishes, while Eleanor enjoyed a classic breakfast set. Kenji, of course, was thrilled with his generous serving of pancakes. It was a perfect way to fuel up for a day of temple visits.


Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Arancino Kyoto – where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

First on our itinerary was Kodaiji Temple. As we approached, the serene atmosphere was immediately palpable. The temple, nestled in the hills of Higashiyama, offered a tranquil escape from the bustling city. The cherry blossoms were still hanging on, a beautiful reminder of the fleeting beauty of spring. Kodaiji Temple is known for its stunning gardens, and we took our time wandering through them, admiring the meticulously raked gravel and the carefully pruned trees. I found myself reflecting on the temple's history, founded in 1606 by Kita-no-Mandokoro in memory of her late husband, Toyotomi Hideyoshi. It's incredible to think about the generations who have walked these same paths, seeking solace and inspiration.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Kodaiji Temple, a historical Buddhist temple in Kyoto, showcasing stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.

The quieter you become, the more you can hear.

Kenji was particularly fascinated by the bamboo grove, its towering stalks swaying gently in the breeze. Eleanor, ever the history enthusiast, was engrossed in reading about the temple's various structures, including the Otama-ya Mausoleum and the Kaisan-do Founder's Hall. We even stumbled upon a special exhibition, which added an extra layer of depth to our visit. Apparently, Kodaiji Temple often holds spring exhibitions, and we were lucky enough to catch one. The temple is also known for its weeping cherry blossoms, and although we were a bit late in the season, there were still a few blossoms clinging to the branches, creating a magical atmosphere. I made a mental note to visit again during the peak cherry blossom season sometime in the future.

After Kodaiji, we made our way to Yasaka Shrine, a stark contrast to the peacefulness of the temple. Yasaka Shrine, also known as Gion Shrine, was bustling with activity. The shrine is known for its vibrant festivals, and there was definitely an energetic atmosphere in the air. We watched as locals and tourists alike tossed coins into the offering box and bowed their heads in prayer. The vermilion-colored gates and buildings were striking against the backdrop of the surrounding Gion district. Yasaka Shrine is deeply intertwined with the Gion Matsuri, one of Japan's most famous festivals, held every July. I learned that the shrine plays a central role in the festival's Shinto ceremonies, and I could almost feel the echoes of past celebrations.


Discover the serene beauty of Yasaka Shrine, a historical Shinto sanctuary in Kyoto, renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural festivals.

For lunch, we chose Hanasaki, a restaurant recommended for its affordable Kaiseki meals. Kaiseki is a traditional Japanese multi-course meal, and I was excited to try it. The restaurant was charming, with a traditional Japanese interior. The meal was a culinary journey, with each course carefully crafted and beautifully presented. Eleanor appreciated the delicate flavors and the artful arrangement of the dishes. Kenji, surprisingly, was adventurous and tried almost everything, though he admitted the raw fish wasn't his favorite. It was a delightful experience, and I'm glad we ventured beyond our usual comfort zone.


Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Hanasaki in Kyoto - where tradition meets artistry in every delicious dish.

As the sun began to set, we headed to Bar Rinto for a relaxing evening drink. I had read about this bar online, and it seemed like a great place to unwind after a busy day. The bar had a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with a wide selection of Japanese whiskies and cocktails. Eleanor opted for a traditional sake, while I tried a local craft beer. We chatted about our day, sharing our favorite moments and impressions. It was a perfect way to end our day of exploring Kyoto's spiritual and cultural treasures.


Discover the lively charm of Bar Rinto in Kyoto, where traditional hospitality meets a modern bar experience.

Dinner was at Jiki Miyazawa, a restaurant that promised an authentic Kyoto dining experience. The restaurant was small and intimate, with a traditional Japanese décor. We opted for the chef's tasting menu, which featured a variety of seasonal dishes. Each course was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. The chef clearly took pride in his craft, and he explained each dish with passion and precision. The meal was a true culinary adventure, and it gave us a deeper appreciation for the artistry of Japanese cuisine. Jiki Miyazawa is known for its innovative ingredient combinations, and we were excited to explore new flavors of Kyoto cuisine.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Tōfuku-ji Temple and Heian Shrine. Tōfuku-ji is famous for its stunning Zen garden and vibrant autumn foliage, while Heian Shrine is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. We also plan to do some shopping at the Daimaru Kyoto Store.

As I reflect on today, I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Traveling together allows us to create lasting memories and deepen our bonds. I'm also reminded of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the beauty and culture that surrounds us. Kyoto has a way of captivating the soul, and I'm eager to continue exploring its hidden gems.

It's moments like these, sharing experiences with my family, that make all the hard work back in Bristol worthwhile. I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunities I have, and I'm committed to making the most of them. This trip to Kyoto is not just a vacation; it's an investment in our family's well-being and a chance to create memories that will last a lifetime. Perhaps Kenji will even be inspired to learn more about his Japanese heritage, which would make this trip even more meaningful.

I look forward to sharing more of our Kyoto adventures with you tomorrow. Until then, sayōnara!