Cultural Immersion and Family Adventures in Kyoto

Last Day Musings in Kyoto

Our final day in Kyoto was a bittersweet symphony of serene temples, delightful culinary experiences, and reflective moments. Knowing it was our last day made each experience feel even more precious. Liam and I were determined to soak in every last bit of Kyoto's magic, making memories with the family that we'd cherish long after our Shinkansen ride back to Tokyo.

The crisp February air greeted us as we set out, a reminder of the unique beauty winter lends to this ancient city. The forecast promised a mix of clouds and sunshine, perfect for temple hopping and leisurely strolls. Armed with our trusty travel guide and a sense of adventure, we embarked on our day, ready to embrace whatever Kyoto had in store for us.

Our first stop was Eikan-dō Temple, known for its stunning autumn foliage, though even in winter, the bare branches possessed a stark beauty against the clear sky. The temple, formally known as Zenrin-ji, has a history stretching back over 1,100 years. While the maple leaves were absent, the temple buildings themselves were beautiful. We explored the Shakado (Hall of the historical Buddha), with its rock garden, and the Amidado, which houses the Mikaeri-Amida, a statue of Amida Buddha looking over his left shoulder. Legend says that the statue turned its head to speak to the priest Eikan. The climb to the Tahoto Pagoda was invigorating, offering panoramic views of Kyoto. Even without the fiery foliage, the city unfolded beneath us, a tapestry of traditional rooftops and modern structures.


Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Eikan-dō Temple, a must-visit Buddhist sanctuary in Kyoto, Japan, surrounded by stunning gardens.

Sometimes, the most profound beauty lies not in grand displays, but in the quiet moments of reflection and appreciation.

Next on our itinerary was Nanzen-ji Temple, a sprawling Zen temple complex that exuded an aura of tranquility. The sheer scale of the place was impressive, from the towering San-Mon gate to the network of sub-temples dotting the grounds. We wandered through the main hall, admiring the intricate details and the sense of history etched into every beam and tile. I found myself particularly drawn to the brick aqueduct, a remnant of a bygone era that added an unexpected industrial touch to the otherwise serene landscape. While Nanzen-in was closed for renovations, the rest of the temple was open to explore. Liam was keen to find Nanzen Oku-no-in, a secret waterfall grotto hidden in the hills behind the temple, but time was not on our side.


Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Nanzen-ji Temple, a stunning Buddhist sanctuary nestled in the heart of Kyoto's natural landscape.

Our final temple visit of the day was to Shimogamo Shrine, one of Kyoto's oldest and most important Shinto shrines. Nestled at the junction of the Kamo and Takano rivers, the shrine exuded a sense of ancient mystique, with its moss-covered pathways and towering trees. We learned that February is a special time at Shimogamo, with Setsubun events taking place. Although we were a few weeks past the main festivities, the air still felt charged with a sense of renewal and good fortune. We took a moment to purify ourselves at the Temizuya, the shrine's cleansing station, before offering a prayer for safe travels and good health for our family.


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

For breakfast, we enjoyed a traditional Japanese meal at Fujiya. I opted for the 'special breakfast limited to 10 people', a selection of small dishes that were both delicious and beautifully presented. It was the perfect way to start our day, fueling us for our temple explorations and immersing us in the local culinary scene.


Discover the exquisite flavors of traditional kaiseki cuisine at Fujiya in Kyoto - where every meal is a masterpiece.

Lunch took us to Khaos Spice Diner, a quirky and vibrant eatery that served up some of the most flavorful curry I've ever tasted. The restaurant had a laid-back, almost bohemian vibe, with film posters adorning the walls and reggae music playing in the background. I opted for the Khaos pork keema curry, a rich and savory concoction that was bursting with spices and umami. Liam went for the chicken curry. The generous serving of pickles on the side added a delightful tang, cutting through the richness of the curry and adding a refreshing counterpoint. It was a welcome change of pace from the more traditional fare we'd been enjoying, and a testament to Kyoto's diverse culinary landscape.


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

Dinner was at Hanasaki, a restaurant specializing in Kaiseki, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner. This was a culinary experience. Each dish was a work of art, meticulously crafted with seasonal ingredients and presented with exquisite attention to detail. From the delicate vegetable tofu to the melt-in-your-mouth braised pork belly, every bite was a revelation of flavors and textures. The restaurant itself was a refined townhouse, adding to the overall sense of occasion and transporting us back in time. It was the perfect way to celebrate our final evening in Kyoto, savoring the best of Japanese cuisine in an atmosphere of understated elegance.


Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Hanasaki in Kyoto - where tradition meets artistry in every delicious dish.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Concrete Bar, a cozy and intimate spot tucked away in a quiet alley. The bar had a cool, understated vibe, with concrete walls and dim lighting that created a sense of urban chic. We sipped on expertly crafted cocktails, reminiscing about our adventures in Kyoto and toasting to the memories we'd made. It was the perfect way to end our trip, soaking in the city's nightlife and savoring one last taste of its unique charm.


Discover the dynamic nightlife of Kyoto at Concrete Bar, where cocktails flow and friendships blossom in a vibrant atmosphere.

Reflecting on our time in Kyoto, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've shared as a family. From the iconic temples to the hidden gardens, from the bustling markets to the serene tea houses, Kyoto has captured our hearts and souls. As we prepare to leave this enchanting city, I know that a part of us will forever remain here, amidst the ancient stones and the vibrant culture. Tomorrow, we head back to Tokyo, ready to continue our Japanese adventure with new eyes and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and wonder of this incredible country. But Kyoto, with its timeless charm and serene spirit, will always hold a special place in our hearts. It’s a place I can already envision returning to, perhaps in the spring when the cherry blossoms paint the city in delicate shades of pink, or in the autumn when the maple leaves ignite the hillsides in fiery hues. Until then, I'll carry the memories of this trip with me, a reminder of the power of travel to connect us to new cultures, to each other, and to ourselves.

As I sit here, penning these final thoughts, I can't help but feel a tinge of sadness that our time in Kyoto is coming to an end. But I also feel a sense of excitement for what lies ahead, for the new adventures that await us in Tokyo and beyond. And I know that no matter where our travels take us, the memories of Kyoto will always remain, a cherished chapter in our family's story. So, until next time, Kyoto, farewell and thank you for the magic, the serenity, and the unforgettable moments.

The bullet train awaits, and so do new adventures. It’s time to say goodbye to Kyoto, but not to the memories we’ve made here. They will travel with us, etched in our minds and hearts, as we continue our journey through Japan.

Looking forward to sharing the next leg of our adventure with you all soon!