Cultural Immersion in Historic Kyoto

Kyoto's Charms: A Saturday of Discovery

Today was a day of vibrant contrasts, a true reflection of Kyoto's multifaceted character. From the serene beauty of Gion to the colorful world of manga and the exquisite flavors of Japanese cuisine, it was an experience that captivated all of us. It’s days like these that remind me why I started this blog – to share the joy of cultural immersion with fellow travelers.

Our day began with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Nakamura. It was a delightful start, setting the tone for a day of cultural exploration. The delicate flavors and artful presentation were a feast for both the eyes and the palate. It reminded me of the simple yet profound culinary experiences back in Lampang.

We ventured into Gion, Kyoto’s famed geisha district. The winter air was crisp, and the streets were quieter than usual, allowing us to appreciate the traditional machiya houses and the serene atmosphere. Though we didn't spot any geishas, just wandering through the historic streets was an experience in itself. The area was less crowded, offering a serene atmosphere, allowing us to soak in the beauty without the usual hustle and bustle.


Explore Gion, Kyoto's iconic geisha district, where tradition meets charm in a captivating blend of culture and history.

Travel is about the gorgeous feeling of teetering in the unknown.

Next, we strolled along Hanamikoji Street. I imagined it bustling with activity in warmer months, but today, under the soft winter light, it possessed a quiet elegance. The traditional wooden buildings and the glimpses into teahouses transported us back in time. Greta, ever the historian, was particularly fascinated by the architecture and the stories it held. I tried to capture the essence of the street with my camera, hoping to convey its timeless beauty to you all. I managed to snap a photo of Lila in front of a traditional shop, her bright smile a stark contrast to the muted tones of the street.


Explore Hanamikoji Street, Kyoto's iconic alleyway steeped in tradition and culture, where history meets the beauty of Japanese artistry.

For lunch, we indulged in Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki & Teppan-yaki at Kamehameha. I had never tried Okonomiyaki prepared Hiroshima-style, and I must say, it was a revelation. The savory pancake was cooked right in front of us, with layers of noodles, cabbage, and various toppings. The experience was as much a visual treat as it was a culinary one. Lila was particularly amused by the chef's skillful use of the spatula, flipping the pancake with impressive precision.


Discover authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Kamehameha, Kyoto's premier destination for delicious Japanese cuisine.

After lunch, we headed to the Kyoto International Manga Museum. As an English teacher, I’m always interested in different forms of storytelling, and manga is a significant part of Japanese culture. The museum, housed in a former school building, was a treasure trove of comics from around the world. Lila was in her element, poring over the colorful pages and discovering new characters. Greta and I enjoyed learning about the history of manga and its impact on global culture. The museum was surprisingly engaging, and we spent hours exploring its vast collection. I even found a section with manga translated into German, which Greta appreciated.


Explore the rich world of Japanese comics at Kyoto International Manga Museum, a cultural gem in Kyoto offering extensive manga collections and engaging exhibitions.

Before dinner, I managed to sneak away for a quick visit to L'Escamoteur, a bar known for its creative cocktails. The atmosphere was intimate and mysterious, reminiscent of a speakeasy from the Prohibition era. The bartender was a true mixologist, crafting drinks with flair and passion. I sampled a Smoky Old Fashioned, which was a delightful blend of smoky flavors and classic cocktail craftsmanship. It was a brief but memorable interlude, a chance to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.


Discover L'Escamoteur, Kyoto's enchanting cocktail bar where artistry meets mixology in a whimsical atmosphere. Unforgettable drinks await!

Dinner was an unforgettable experience at Kikunoi Roan. The kaiseki cuisine was a work of art, each dish meticulously prepared and presented. The flavors were subtle yet complex, showcasing the best of seasonal ingredients. The ambiance was serene and refined, creating a perfect setting for a culinary journey. I savored every bite, appreciating the skill and artistry that went into each creation. Lila, surprisingly, was quite adventurous, trying new and unfamiliar flavors with enthusiasm. Greta and I shared knowing glances, proud of our little explorer.


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

As the day drew to a close, we took a leisurely stroll back to our hotel, the hotel MONday Kyoto Marutamachi. The city was quiet, the streets illuminated by soft, golden light. We recounted our favorite moments of the day, each of us highlighting different aspects of our adventure. It was a day of cultural immersion, culinary delights, and shared experiences – a perfect day in Kyoto.


Experience comfort and convenience at Hotel MONday Kyoto Marutamachi, located near iconic attractions like Nijo Castle and Kyoto International Manga Museum.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Kyoto Railway Museum, Toei Kyoto Studio Park, and the Kyoto Aquarium. Lila is particularly excited about the Railway Museum, while Greta is looking forward to exploring the Studio Park. I’m keen to see the Aquarium, as I’ve heard it’s home to a diverse range of marine life.

As I reflect on today, I am reminded of how fortunate I am to be able to share these experiences with my family. Travel is not just about seeing new places; it’s about creating lasting memories and deepening our understanding of the world and each other. And with that, I bid you goodnight from Kyoto, with a promise of more adventures to come.

I'm especially looking forward to visiting the Kyoto Railway Museum tomorrow, as I've always been fascinated by trains. Perhaps it's a remnant of my childhood in Lampang, where the trains were a symbol of connection to the wider world. Greta, on the other hand, is most excited about the Toei Kyoto Studio Park, where she can indulge her love for historical dramas. And Lila? Well, she's simply thrilled about the prospect of seeing all the fish at the Kyoto Aquarium. It's these shared excitements that make our family travels so special.

As I prepare for tomorrow's adventures, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this beautiful city with my family. Kyoto has a way of captivating the senses and inspiring the soul, and I am eager to see what tomorrow brings.

Before I sign off, I must share a funny anecdote from today. While at the Manga Museum, Lila insisted on dressing up as her favorite manga character, complete with a bright pink wig and oversized glasses. She paraded around the museum, striking poses and reciting lines from the manga. Greta and I couldn't help but laugh at her enthusiasm, and even some of the museum staff joined in the fun. It was a moment of pure joy and silliness, a reminder that travel is also about embracing the unexpected and letting loose.

As I drift off to sleep, I am filled with anticipation for tomorrow's adventures. The Kyoto Railway Museum, Toei Kyoto Studio Park, and the Kyoto Aquarium await, promising a day of fun and discovery. I can't wait to share our experiences with you all, so stay tuned for more tales from our Kyoto journey. Goodnight from Japan!

Final thoughts

From wandering through the enchanting Gion district to immersing ourselves in the colorful world of manga and savoring exquisite Japanese cuisine, today was a testament to Kyoto's diverse and captivating character. These are the moments that make travel so rewarding, creating lasting memories and deepening our appreciation for different cultures.