Cultural Immersion in Kyoto: A Family Adventure

Golden Reflections and Zen Gardens

Today was a day of exploring Kyoto's spiritual and natural beauty, a journey that took me from the shimmering Golden Pavilion to the meditative rock garden of Ryoan-ji, and finally to the tranquil Kyoto Botanical Gardens. Each location offered a unique perspective on Japanese culture and a chance to reflect on the simple yet profound aspects of life. I was particularly excited to share these experiences with Liam and Maya, hoping they'd find as much joy and peace as I did.


Our day began with a delightful vegan breakfast at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO. It's always a relief to find such gems when traveling, ensuring we start our day with a meal that aligns with our values. Maya was particularly thrilled with her fluffy vegan pancakes, declaring them the best she’s ever had. Liam and I opted for the hearty breakfast sets, fueling up for a day of exploration.


Kinkaku-ji: The Golden Pavilion

Our first stop was the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). As we approached, the sight of the temple shimmering in the morning light was breathtaking. The gold leaf adorning the top two floors created a stunning reflection on the Mirror Pond, making it seem as though the pavilion was floating on water. I couldn't help but think of my childhood in Tiberias, watching the sun dance on the Sea of Galilee – a similar sense of awe and tranquility filled me.

Kinkaku-ji, officially named Rokuon-ji (Deer Garden Temple), has a rich history dating back to 1397 when it was originally built as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. After his death, it was converted into a Zen temple. The pavilion has been rebuilt several times, most recently in 1955 after being burned down in 1950 by a novice monk. The current structure is a faithful replica of the original, and it’s hard to believe it's a reconstruction.

We strolled through the meticulously maintained gardens, admiring the carefully placed stones and the serene Kyokochi Pond. Maya was fascinated by the small statues where people throw coins for luck. I made sure to explain the history and significance of the temple, hoping to instill in her an appreciation for Japanese culture and history. Liam, ever the photographer, was busy capturing the beauty of the pavilion from every angle.

The beauty of Kinkaku-ji lies not only in its golden exterior but also in the sense of peace and harmony it evokes, a testament to the enduring power of Zen Buddhism.

Ryoan-ji: A Garden of Contemplation

Next, we headed to Ryoan-ji, home to Japan’s most famous rock garden. This Zen temple, originally an aristocrat's villa during the Heian Period, was converted into a temple in 1450. As we entered the garden, a sense of calm washed over me. The garden consists of fifteen rocks arranged in small groups on a bed of white gravel, surrounded by low earthen walls.

One of the unique features of the garden is that from any vantage point, at least one of the rocks is always hidden from view. This design invites contemplation and encourages viewers to find their own meaning in the arrangement. Some believe the garden represents islands in a sea, while others see it as an abstract representation of infinity. I shared some of these interpretations with Liam and Maya, encouraging them to reflect on what the garden meant to them personally.

We spent a considerable amount of time sitting on the veranda, quietly observing the garden. Maya, surprisingly, was captivated by the simplicity and stillness of the scene. Liam, always drawn to symbolism, pondered the hidden rock and its significance. For me, the garden was a reminder of the importance of finding peace within oneself, a lesson I've learned through my own journey of moving from Israel to Canada and building a new life.

In addition to the rock garden, we explored the temple grounds, including the Kyoyochi Pond, a remnant of the site’s days as an aristocrat's villa. The pond was serene, and we enjoyed a peaceful walk along its edge, taking in the natural beauty.

Lunch at Katsukura - Kyoto Porta

After a morning of temples and gardens, we were ready for lunch. We chose Katsukura - Kyoto Porta, known for its delicious tonkatsu (pork cutlets). The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, a testament to its popularity. We waited for about 40 minutes, but it was definitely worth it.

The interior was warm and inviting, and we were seated at a traditional table. We ordered a variety of tonkatsu sets, each featuring perfectly breaded and deep-fried pork cutlets. What I particularly enjoyed was grinding my own sesame seeds for the sauce. Liam and Maya enjoyed the interactive element, and the tonkatsu was absolutely delicious. The free refills of shredded cabbage, soup, and pickles were also a welcome bonus.

Kyoto Botanical Gardens: A Winter Oasis

Our final destination for the day was the Kyoto Botanical Gardens. Founded in 1924, it is the oldest and most comprehensive botanical garden in Japan. Despite it being January, the gardens were still full of life and beauty. We started with the conservatory, one of the largest in Japan, housing over 4,500 species of tropical and subtropical plants. It was a welcome escape from the winter chill, and we spent a long time admiring the exotic flowers and lush greenery.

Outside the conservatory, we explored the various sections of the garden, including the bamboo garden, the rose garden, and the European-style garden. Though the cherry blossoms were not yet in bloom, we spotted some plum blossoms, signaling the coming of spring. Maya enjoyed the open lawn space and the playground, while Liam and I appreciated the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to connect with nature.

Shopping at Daimaru Kyoto Store

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we made a stop at the Daimaru Kyoto Store for some shopping. This department store, with its long history dating back to 1717, offers a wide range of high-quality items, from apparel to gourmet food. We explored the basement food floor, which was a feast for the senses. The selection of fresh produce, meats, fish, and Japanese sweets was astonishing.

I was particularly impressed by the beautifully packaged Kyoto specialty foods, such as tofu, yuba, and pickled vegetables. We picked up some souvenirs for friends and family back home, as well as some treats for ourselves. Maya was delighted with the pastries and chocolates, while Liam and I appreciated the selection of sake and tea.

Dinner at Kikunoi Roan

For dinner, we had reservations at Kikunoi Roan, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant known for its exquisite kaiseki cuisine. This was a special treat, and I was excited to experience the artistry and flavors of traditional Kyoto cuisine. The restaurant was located in a traditional Kyo-Machiya townhouse in the heart of Gion, adding to the ambiance.

We were seated in a private room, decorated with a simple flower display and a scroll of calligraphy. The service was impeccable, and the waitresses were charming and knowledgeable. The kaiseki meal consisted of multiple courses, each meticulously prepared and beautifully presented. The dishes featured seasonal ingredients and showcased the chef’s skill and creativity.

From the delicate sashimi to the flavorful steamed dishes and the comforting rice course, every bite was a delight. The meal was a journey through the senses, and I appreciated the thoughtfulness and care that went into each dish. It was a perfect way to end a day of exploring Kyoto's cultural and natural treasures.

Reflections on the Day

As I reflect on today's experiences, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share these moments with my family. Kyoto is a city that captivates the senses and nourishes the soul. From the shimmering Golden Pavilion to the tranquil rock garden and the vibrant botanical gardens, every location offered a unique perspective on Japanese culture and a chance to connect with nature.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, with its thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding up the mountainside, and Toji Temple, known for its towering pagoda. I'm also looking forward to unwinding at The Common One Bar Kyoto in the evening. I am eager to see what new adventures await us in this enchanting city.

Goodnight from Kyoto!