Family Cultural Exploration in Kyoto

Whispers of Ancient Kyoto

Today, Kyoto embraced us with its timeless beauty, offering a glimpse into its rich history and vibrant culture. From the serene heights of Kiyomizu-dera to the bustling lanes of Nishiki Market, every moment was a sensory delight. It felt like stepping back in time, wandering through streets that have witnessed centuries of stories unfold. I was particularly excited to share these experiences with Hans and Lara, watching their faces light up with each new discovery. It's moments like these that make our family trips so special, creating memories that will last a lifetime.


Experience the serene beauty and spiritual essence of Kiyomizu-dera, an iconic Buddhist temple in Kyoto, renowned for its stunning architecture and breathtaking views.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Goichi Pizza, a delightful surprise. While in Japan, I didn't expect to eat pizza, but Lara was craving something familiar. The reviews were promising, and it was close to our hotel. It turned out to be a fantastic choice! The pizza was authentic, baked in a stone oven, with a perfectly chewy crust. Hans and Lara enjoyed it so much. I must admit, after days of Japanese food, it was a welcome change. It reminded me a little of home in Dresden, but with a unique Kyoto twist. We might even consider getting takeout from there again.


Discover the delicious fusion of Italian tradition and local flavors at Goichi Pizza in Kyoto - an unmissable dining experience!

Fueled and ready for our adventure, we set off for Kiyomizu-dera. The temple is one of Kyoto's most celebrated, and I was eager to experience its famed wooden stage. As we approached, the vibrant greenery of the surrounding hills was a sight to behold. The temple was founded in 780, and you could feel the weight of history in every corner. The climb up to the temple was invigorating, and the views along the way were simply breathtaking. I could see why it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its temples and gardens, but in the way it seamlessly blends the past and present.

The main hall of Kiyomizu-dera, built without the use of nails, was an architectural marvel. The wooden stage jutted out from the hillside, offering panoramic views of Kyoto. Despite the crowds, I felt a sense of peace and tranquility. Lara was fascinated by the small statue of the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon, the temple's primary object of worship. It was a great opportunity to share some Buddhist philosophy with her, something I often delve into in my personal time.

After exploring the main hall, we ventured behind it to Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking. It was amusing to watch people trying to navigate the two love stones with their eyes closed, hoping for good fortune in their relationships. Lara even gave it a try, giggling as she stumbled along the path. Hans and I shared a knowing glance, reminiscing about our own journey of love and companionship.

Next, we made our way down to the Otowa Waterfall, located at the base of Kiyomizu-dera. The water is divided into three separate streams, each said to have a different benefit: longevity, success at school, and a fortunate love life. We each chose a stream to drink from, mindful not to be greedy by trying all three. I opted for longevity, hoping to have many more years of adventures with my family.

Leaving Kiyomizu-dera, we strolled through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, two charming, narrow sloping roads lined with traditional wooden storefronts. These streets are a delight to explore, with shops selling everything from traditional crafts to local snacks. It felt like stepping back in time, imagining what Kyoto might have been like centuries ago. The streets were bustling with tourists and locals alike, creating a lively atmosphere.


Discover the historic allure of Sannenzaka, a traditional street in Kyoto, filled with wooden architecture, unique shops, and stunning views of Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Lara was particularly captivated by a shop selling handmade paper crafts, while Hans admired the intricate designs of the traditional ceramics. I found myself drawn to a tea house, where we enjoyed a moment of respite with a cup of matcha. The server, dressed in a kimono, prepared the tea with such grace and precision. It was a truly authentic experience. I thought to myself that I should practice this more often back home in Germany.

As we wandered, we came across a myth about Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka: if you slip and fall on either of these streets, you will die in three years on Sannenzaka, and two years on Ninenzaka. We made sure to tread carefully, laughing at the superstition. It added a playful element to our walk, making us appreciate each step.

For lunch, we decided to try The Cellar Kyoto, a restaurant promising a hidden and unique dining experience. The restaurant was indeed hidden, located in the basement of a building. The atmosphere was cozy and intimate, with a touch of elegance. We were seated in a private room, which added to the sense of exclusivity. The food was exquisite, a fusion of Japanese and Western flavors. I particularly enjoyed the fresh vegetables, which were bursting with flavor. Hans was impressed by the wine selection, and Lara devoured every bite of her meal. It was a perfect culinary interlude in our day of exploration.


Discover culinary excellence at The Cellar Kyoto - where creative cuisine meets fine wine in a stylish setting.

In the afternoon, we immersed ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto's Kitchen. This narrow, five-block-long shopping street is lined with over one hundred shops and restaurants, specializing in all things food-related. The market was bustling with activity, a feast for the senses. The aromas of fresh seafood, pickles, and spices filled the air.

We sampled a variety of local delicacies, from fresh sashimi to Kyoto-style sweets. Lara was particularly adventurous, trying tako-tamago (grilled octopus with a quail egg in its head) for the first time. Hans enjoyed the local sake, while I savored the flavorful pickles. The market was a treasure trove of culinary delights, and we could have spent hours exploring its every nook and cranny. I even picked up some Japanese sweets to take back to Dresden, hoping to share a taste of Kyoto with our friends.


Explore Kyoto's Nishiki Market, the vibrant hub of local culture and cuisine, offering a delightful array of traditional foods and unique souvenirs.

As we strolled through Nishiki Market, I couldn't help but think about the importance of preserving cultural heritage. The market has a history of several centuries, and many of the stores have been operated by the same families for generations. It's a testament to the enduring traditions of Kyoto, a city that cherishes its past while embracing the future. This dedication to cultural preservation is something I deeply admire, and it resonates with my own work as a librarian specializing in Southeast Asian history.

After a full day of exploring, we decided to have dinner at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya. However, upon checking, we learned that they no longer cater to purely vegetarian or vegan customers. Since I am the only vegetarian in the family, we decided to find another place that could accommodate everyone. We ended up at a nearby restaurant that offered a variety of options, including some delicious vegetarian dishes for me. I tried a tofu dish that was so flavorful and tasty.


Experience authentic teppanyaki at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, Kyoto's premier destination for Japanese cuisine in a lively izakaya setting.

Reflecting on our day, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the magic of Kyoto with my family. From the serene temples to the bustling markets, every moment was a reminder of the beauty and richness of Japanese culture. As we prepare for tomorrow's adventures in Gion, Yasaka Shrine, and the Kyoto Imperial Palace, I am excited to see what new discoveries await us. I am sure Lara will be excited to see the geishas of Gion, and Hans is keen to visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace. I am particularly interested in the Yasaka Shrine, as I love visiting places of worship. I am also looking forward to sampling the cuisine at Kikunoi Roan. For now, I will rest and dream of the wonders of Kyoto. Oyasumi nasai (Good night) from Kyoto!