Family Adventure in the Cultural Heart of Kyoto

Finding Peace in Stone and Cherry Blossoms

Today was a day of quiet contemplation and delightful discoveries in Kyoto. From the enigmatic rock garden of Ryoan-ji to the serene beauty of Ninna-ji Temple, and finally, a culinary adventure through Kyoto's diverse flavors, it was a day that nourished both the mind and the body. I am always looking for ways to weave in the local culture and history into our family travels, and today was a perfect example of how to do just that.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Mezopotamia Kebab House. It might seem odd to start a day in Kyoto with kebabs, but the savory flavors were a welcome change of pace. Kenji especially enjoyed it, and Eleanor and I appreciated the friendly service. Fuelled up, we set off to Ryoan-ji Temple, eager to experience its famous Zen garden.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Ryōan-ji in Kyoto, a renowned Zen temple known for its iconic rock garden and rich cultural heritage.

Stepping into Ryoan-ji was like entering another world. The temple itself exudes a sense of history, but it's the karesansui (dry landscape) rock garden that truly captivates. Fifteen stones of varying sizes are carefully arranged in five groups on a bed of white gravel. The gravel is meticulously raked each day by the monks, creating linear patterns that invite meditation. It’s said that no matter where you stand, you can never see all fifteen stones at once. I found myself pondering the garden's meaning, its abstract layout encouraging a sense of questioning and reflection. Kenji, of course, was more interested in counting the stones and trying to find the 'hidden' one, but even he was eventually drawn into the garden's tranquil atmosphere.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences come from the simplest of things.

After spending a good hour lost in contemplation at Ryoan-ji, we made our way to Ninna-ji Temple, a short walk away. Founded in 888 by Emperor Uda, Ninna-ji is a sprawling complex with deep ties to the Imperial Family. It's a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, and as we wandered through its grounds, it was easy to see why. The scale of the temple is impressive, and the history palpable. The buildings, reconstructed in the 17th century, exude grace and elegance. We explored the Goten, the former residence of the head priest, admiring the beautifully painted sliding doors and the serene rock and pond gardens.


Discover the tranquility and beauty of Ninna-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, showcasing stunning architecture and serene gardens.

One of Ninna-ji's highlights is its grove of Omuro cherry trees. These late-blooming dwarf cherry trees are a sight to behold. Unfortunately, the cherry blossoms aren't in the best condition this year. Still, the beauty of these trees, admired since the Edo period, was not lost on us. Walking through the grove felt like wading through clouds of delicate pink. Kenji was fascinated by the low branches, perfect for little hands to reach and touch.

After a morning of temple visits, our appetites were calling, and it was time for lunch. We headed to Oryori Menami, a restaurant known for its Obanzai, traditional Kyoto home cooking. This restaurant, founded in 1939, has a Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition, and I was eager to experience its authentic flavors. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. We ordered a variety of small dishes, each showcasing seasonal Kyoto cuisine. The flavors were subtle and refined, highlighting the natural ingredients. Eleanor particularly enjoyed the Kujo leek dressed in vinegar miso, while Kenji loved the fried tofu. It was a delightful culinary journey, a true taste of Kyoto.


Experience authentic Obanzai cuisine in Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward at Oryori Menami - where tradition meets taste.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to indulge in a bit of shopping. Kyoto Station's ASTY Kyoto Kyoani Goods Store was our next stop. I knew Kenji would be thrilled, as he's a big fan of anime. The store was filled with merchandise from Kyoto Animation's various series. While the pop-up shop was scheduled to close last year, I was hoping to find some Kyoani goods. Kenji was in heaven, carefully selecting a few items to take back home. It was a fun and lighthearted way to end the afternoon.


Explore Kyoto Station ASTY Kyoto Kyoani Goods Store for exclusive anime merchandise and a taste of Japan's vibrant pop culture.

As evening approached, it was time for our final culinary experience of the day: dinner at Premium Pound Gion. This teppanyaki restaurant promised high-quality Japanese beef, and it did not disappoint. The restaurant is located in a hidden spot in the Gion district, adding to its allure. The interior was calm and elegant, with counter seating allowing us to watch the chef's skillful techniques up close. We opted for the Kobe Beef Steak Course, and it was an exquisite experience. The beef was tender and flavorful, cooked to perfection right before our eyes. The chef was friendly and engaging, making the meal even more enjoyable. It was a perfect ending to a day filled with cultural and culinary delights.


Experience culinary artistry at Premium Pound Gion – where French cuisine meets Japanese teppanyaki in the heart of Kyoto's historic Gion district.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Kyoto Botanical Gardens and Kamigamo Shrine. I’m particularly looking forward to the Botanical Gardens, as I’ve heard they are beautiful in the spring. And perhaps, after a day of exploring, we'll treat ourselves to a drink at Bar K6. For now, though, it's time to rest and reflect on another wonderful day in Kyoto.

As I sit here writing, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Kyoto is a city that nourishes the soul, and I'm so glad to be able to share its beauty and culture with Eleanor and Kenji. It’s these moments, these shared experiences, that make our travels so meaningful. I even managed to practice a little Shodo (Japanese calligraphy) in my hotel room, inspired by the serene atmosphere of the temples we visited today. Perhaps I’ll find a local tea house tomorrow and continue my exploration of Japanese culture. I almost forgot that I needed to buy an umbrella and extra memory cards for the camera. I will make sure to get them tomorrow.

I am learning more and more about myself on this trip. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures!