Family Cultural Exploration in Kyoto

A Day of Temples, Towers, and Tranquility

Today was a beautiful blend of the ancient and the modern, a true reflection of Kyoto's soul. From the serene grounds of a historic shrine to the panoramic views from a towering landmark, it was a day filled with cultural immersion and delightful discoveries.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Kikuichimonjushirokanenaga honten. It’s always a pleasure to start the day with a traditional Japanese meal. The simple elegance of the food set the tone for a day of exploration and reflection.

Shimogamo Shrine: A Step Back in Time

Our first stop was the Shimogamo Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As a librarian specializing in Southeast Asian history, I always find myself drawn to places with a deep sense of history. The shrine, nestled at the confluence of the Kamo and Takano rivers, exuded a sense of peace that was palpable.


Explore the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Shimogamo Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, Japan.

Walking through the Tadasu-no-Mori forest, which surrounds the shrine, felt like stepping back in time. The ancient trees, some of which are said to be over 600 years old, created a cool, shaded canopy. It was easy to imagine how this sacred space has been a place of worship and contemplation for centuries. I shared with Lara the significance of the shrine, explaining how it's dedicated to the god of the harvest and how it protects Kyoto from evil. She seemed genuinely interested, asking questions about the Shinto religion and the role of shrines in Japanese society. Hans, ever the pragmatist, appreciated the architectural details and the meticulous upkeep of the grounds. I made sure to tell them about the Aoi Matsuri festival which starts at the Shimogamo Shrine, which celebrates the spring harvest.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its famous landmarks, but in the quiet corners where history and nature intertwine.

Kyoto Tower: A Modern Marvel

After immersing ourselves in the tranquility of Shimogamo Shrine, we decided to experience a different side of Kyoto – its modern skyline. We headed to Kyoto Tower, which stands in stark contrast to the city's traditional architecture. Standing at 131 meters, it offered panoramic views of the entire city. The tower was built in 1964 and its design is intended to resemble a lighthouse.


Discover breathtaking views and unique souvenirs at Nidec Kyoto Tower, the iconic landmark that embodies Kyoto's rich cultural heritage.

From the observation deck, we could see the sprawling cityscape, dotted with temples, shrines, and gardens. It was fascinating to see how the old and the new coexist in Kyoto, each enhancing the other's beauty. I pointed out some of the landmarks we had already visited, like Kiyomizu-dera Temple and To-ji Temple, and tried to get a sense of the city's layout. Lara was particularly excited by the telescopes, which allowed us to zoom in on distant details. Hans enjoyed reading about the history of the tower and its significance as a symbol of Kyoto's modernization. It was interesting to compare the experience to Dresden's skyline.

Lunch at Khaos Spice Diner: A Culinary Detour

By lunchtime, we were ready for a change of pace, so we ventured into Khaos Spice Diner for a meal. It was a delightful change from the more traditional fare we had been enjoying. The diner's eclectic decor and reggae music created a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. I opted for the Khaos pork keema curry, while Hans tried the weekly special. Lara, always a bit more adventurous, chose the chicken curry. Each dish was a burst of flavors, a testament to the chef's skill in blending Indian spices with Japanese dashi. It was a delicious and satisfying meal that left us feeling energized for the rest of the day.


Discover authentic Japanese curry at Khaos Spice Diner in Kyoto – a flavorful experience awaits you!

Kodaiji Temple: An Evening of Reflection

As evening approached, we made our way to Kodaiji Temple in the Higashiyama District. This temple, founded in 1606 by Nene in memory of her late husband Toyotomi Hideyoshi, is a place of profound beauty and historical significance. Nene is also enshrined at the temple. I felt a particular connection to Nene’s story, as a woman who dedicated her life to honoring her husband’s memory. The main buildings were constructed in a lavish style and the temple belongs to the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism.


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

The temple's gardens were especially enchanting in the soft evening light. We wandered through the rock garden, its raked gravel representing the vast ocean, and admired the tsukiyama-style garden with its pond, hills, and meticulously placed rocks. The Kaizando (memorial hall), where Nene would pray for Hideyoshi, was particularly moving. The interior was richly decorated, and I could feel the weight of history and devotion in the air. I told Lara about the scroll paintings and the belief that inanimate objects also have souls. The gardens are lit up in the spring and autumn. Kodaiji is also known as “the maki-e temple”.

Dinner at Masayoshi Japanese Dining: A Taste of Kyoto

For dinner, we chose Masayoshi Japanese Dining, hoping to experience authentic Kyoto cuisine. The restaurant did not disappoint. We savored each dish, appreciating the fresh ingredients and the chef's artistry. The restaurant is in a renovated 150-year-old Kyoto townhouse. It was a perfect end to a day of cultural exploration.


Experience authentic Japanese steakhouse dining at Masayoshi in Kyoto—where tradition meets culinary excellence.

Caamm Bar: A Nightcap in Style

To cap off the evening, Hans and I decided to sneak away for a nightcap at Caamm bar. The bar's extensive selection of whiskies and creative cocktails was impressive, and the atmosphere was both sophisticated and relaxed. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. I enjoyed a Japanese whisky, while Hans opted for one of the bar's signature cocktails. It was a quiet moment together, a chance to savor the memories we had created throughout the day. I read that the bar has a specific focus on whisky, but you can also find rum and tequila.


Discover the lively spirit of Kyoto at Caamm Bar, where traditional hospitality meets modern nightlife in a vibrant setting.

“To travel is to take a journey into yourself.”

As I write this, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences we shared today. Kyoto has a way of touching the soul, of reminding us of the beauty and complexity of human history and culture. Tomorrow, we have our last day in Kyoto, and we plan to visit the Kyoto Railway Museum, Kyoto National Museum and the Sanjusangendo Temple. We will also visit the Takashimaya Kyoto S.C. shop for some last-minute shopping before we travel home. It's hard to believe our trip is coming to an end, but I know that the memories we've made here will stay with us for a lifetime. Good night from Kyoto!