Cultural Immersion and Family Adventures in Kyoto

Kyoto's Hidden Gems: A Day of Discovery

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store. Finding the restaurant was an adventure in itself, tucked away in a narrow alley off the Sanjo Shopping Arcade. The tonkatsu was simply divine – the pork was tender, the breading perfectly crisp, and the homemade sauce added a unique depth of flavor. I appreciated that they fry their cutlets in zero-cholesterol vegetable oil, which made me feel a little less guilty about indulging!


Savor the best tonkatsu in Kyoto at Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store—where tradition meets flavor.

What made it even more special was the interactive element of grinding sesame seeds to a paste with a mortar and pestle, then blending our own dipping sauce. It's these small, thoughtful details that elevate a meal from good to unforgettable. We started the day early to avoid the long queues I had read about, and it paid off – we were seated after only a short wait. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring.

Next on our itinerary was Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto's Kitchen.


Explore Nishiki Market, Kyoto's vibrant food market, where local delicacies meet rich cultural heritage in a delightful shopping experience.

Stepping into Nishiki Market was like entering another world. The narrow, five-block-long shopping street was alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of Kyoto's culinary scene. Over a hundred shops and restaurants lined the street, each offering a tempting array of local delicacies, fresh seafood, produce, and cookware. It was a feast for the senses, and I couldn't wait to dive in.

The variety of foods was astounding. There was fresh sashimi, tender beef sushi, matcha-flavored sweets, and Kyoto-style vegetables in colors and shapes I'd never seen before. We sampled Tako Tamago (octopus eggs), which were surprisingly delicious, and indulged in some melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu beef skewers. Liam was particularly fascinated by the Kyo-yasai (Kyoto vegetables), and we picked up a few to try cooking with back at our hotel.

Navigating the market was an experience in itself. The crowds were thick, but the energy was infectious. Shopkeepers called out their wares, enticing us with samples and stories. We learned about the history of the market, which dates back several centuries, and discovered that many of the stores have been operated by the same families for generations. It was a reminder of Kyoto's deep-rooted traditions and its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. I made sure to refrain from eating while walking, as I had read it was considered bad manners.

After immersing ourselves in the culinary delights of Nishiki Market, we made our way to the Kyoto International Manga Museum.


Explore the rich world of manga at the Kyoto International Manga Museum, a cultural haven for enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

I knew Liam would be especially excited about this stop, as he's always been a fan of Japanese comics and animation. I was curious to see what the museum had to offer, as I'm not as familiar with manga culture.

Housed in a former elementary school, the museum was a vibrant and colorful space, filled with about 300,000 manga items. The sheer size of the collection was impressive, and I was immediately drawn in by the energy and creativity of the exhibits.

We spent hours exploring the museum, browsing through the endless shelves of manga, admiring original artwork by famous authors, and learning about the history and development of this unique art form. I was particularly fascinated by the exhibition on kamishibai, a traditional Japanese storytelling format that combines narration with hand-drawn paper cards. It was amazing to learn that several major manga artists started their careers with kamishibai.

Liam was in his element, poring over his favorite manga series and discovering new artists. He even found a growing international section with manga in English, which he was thrilled about. We took a break in the courtyard, where visitors were sprawled out on the grass, reading manga in the sunshine. It was a perfect way to relax and soak in the atmosphere.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

Our final destination for the day was the Kyoto Botanical Gardens.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kyoto Botanical Gardens, an enchanting sanctuary showcasing diverse flora and stunning landscapes in Kyoto, Japan.

After the hustle and bustle of the market and the manga museum, I was craving some peace and tranquility, and the gardens seemed like the perfect place to find it.

Founded in 1924, the Kyoto Botanical Gardens are the oldest and most comprehensive public botanical garden in Japan. Covering an expansive 24 hectares, the gardens are home to approximately 12,000 plant species, offering a diverse and ever-changing landscape to explore.

Even in February, the gardens were a sight to behold. The plum blossoms were just beginning to bloom, signaling the arrival of spring, and the camellias added splashes of color to the winter landscape. We strolled through the bamboo garden, the sunken garden, and the European-style garden, each offering a unique perspective on the beauty of nature.

We spent some time in the conservatory, which houses a variety of tropical plants and flowers from different climates. It was a welcome escape from the February chill, and I enjoyed wandering through the lush greenery and admiring the exotic blooms. I was amazed by the diversity of plant life on display, from towering palms to delicate orchids.

As we wandered through the gardens, I felt a sense of peace and serenity wash over me. The air was fresh and clean, the sounds of the city faded into the background, and the beauty of nature surrounded us. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring and to reconnect with ourselves and with the world around us.

Before heading back to the hotel, we grabbed a quick and delicious gluten-free pizza at Goichi Pizza for lunch.


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

Finding a place that caters to my dietary needs is always a win, and this place was a gem. The crust was made with a rice flour blend, and the toppings were fresh and flavorful. It was the perfect way to refuel after a long day of walking.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Ryoan-ji, Ninna-ji Temple and Kōryū-ji Temple. I'm particularly excited to see the famous rock garden at Ryoan-ji. It's another day filled with cultural exploration and historical immersion, and I can't wait to share the experience with you all. And maybe do a little shopping at the Kyoto LOFT.


Explore Kyoto LOFT: A vibrant general store with cosmetics, home goods, and unique novelties in the heart of Kyoto.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the magic of Kyoto. It's a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, offering a unique and unforgettable travel experience. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, and I'm grateful to have you all along for the journey.

Good night from Kyoto!