Cultural Immersion in Kyoto: A Family Adventure

Kyoto's Imperial Heart: A Day of History and Tranquility

Today was a beautiful blend of history, nature, and delightful culinary experiences here in Kyoto. It felt like stepping back in time while also embracing the serene beauty of the present. The crisp January air added a touch of magic to our explorations, making every moment feel special.

Our day began with a hearty Japanese breakfast at Masayoshi Japanese Dining. It was a delightful start, setting the tone for a day filled with cultural immersion and exploration. I remember when Liam and I first moved to Kelowna, we struggled to find authentic Japanese cuisine, so this was a real treat. Maya was especially excited about the miso soup! After breakfast, we set off to explore the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The palace was the residence of Japan's Imperial Family until 1868, and it's steeped in history. Wandering through the sprawling grounds, I couldn't help but imagine the emperors and empresses who once walked these same paths. The architecture was stunning, a testament to the exquisite craftsmanship of the time. Even in the winter, the palace exuded a sense of grandeur and importance. It was interesting to learn that the palace was reconstructed in 1855 after a fire, showcasing the resilience and dedication to preserving Japan's heritage.


Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Kyoto Imperial Palace, a royal landmark surrounded by stunning gardens and traditional architecture.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences come from simply being present and open to the beauty that surrounds you.

Next, we strolled through the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, which surrounds the Imperial Palace. The garden was a welcome oasis of tranquility amidst the bustling city. Even in January, the garden had its own unique charm. The bare trees stood tall and proud, their branches reaching towards the sky like intricate sculptures. I learned that the garden is home to over 50,000 trees and more than 500 plant species, which is incredible! Maya loved running around the open spaces, and Liam and I enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere. It was a perfect place for a family to relax and reconnect with nature. I was particularly interested to learn that the garden's current form is a result of the Kyoto Gyoen Garden—Preservation Project of the Meiji era, highlighting the ongoing efforts to maintain this natural haven.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a serene national park perfect for leisurely walks and cultural exploration amidst stunning landscapes.

For lunch, we ventured to Antonio, a Spanish restaurant. It might seem odd to eat Spanish food in Japan, but we were in the mood for something different. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, and the paella was absolutely delicious! It reminded me of our honeymoon in Barcelona, where we fell in love with Spanish cuisine. Maya was a bit hesitant at first, but she ended up devouring the churros with chocolate sauce. It's always fun to try new things and expand our culinary horizons.


Discover authentic Spanish flavors at Antonio in Kyoto – where culinary artistry meets vibrant ambiance.

In the afternoon, we visited Shimogamo Shrine, one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Kyoto. The shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it's easy to see why. The serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture were captivating. As we walked through the Tadasu-no-Mori forest leading to the shrine, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. The towering trees created a natural canopy, filtering the sunlight and creating a magical ambiance. I learned that Shimogamo Shrine is dedicated to the guardian of women, and it has long been considered one of the most important shrines in the area. We took our time exploring the grounds, admiring the intricate details of the buildings and soaking in the spiritual energy of the place. Even in winter, the shrine exuded a sense of mystique and history. It was interesting to discover the Aioi Shrine, dedicated to the god of good marriage, and the Renri no Sakaki, two intertwined holly trees symbolizing unity.


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

As evening approached, we decided to try a new experience: Bar Fishbowl. This quirky bar was a hidden gem, with a unique atmosphere. The bar featured a large aquarium, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for our drinks. I opted for a Japanese whiskey, while Liam tried a local craft beer. Maya was fascinated by the fish swimming around, and it kept her entertained while we enjoyed our drinks. It was a fun and memorable way to end our day.


Discover Kyoto's nightlife at Bar Fishbowl, a cocktail haven with stunning views and expertly crafted drinks in the heart of the city.

Finally, we had dinner at Yoshikawa, a renowned tempura restaurant. The restaurant had a traditional Japanese ambiance, with tatami mats and shoji screens. The tempura was exquisite, each piece cooked to perfection. The chef used fresh, seasonal ingredients, and the flavors were incredible. It was a true culinary experience, and it was the perfect way to end our day of exploration. Yoshikawa Ryokan is known to provide scrumptious Japanese delicacies, which won the tastes of both locals and tourists. A guest even stated that they were told that the ryokan's restaurant is a favorite of Paul McCartney when in Kyoto. The location was also commended as great and accessible.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Yoshikawa, where tradition meets exceptional flavors in the heart of Kyoto.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Tōfuku-ji Temple, Chionin Temple, and Maruyama Park. I'm especially looking forward to exploring the temples and gardens, and I'm hoping to capture some beautiful photos. We also plan to visit Kyoto Station ASTY Kyoto Kyoani Goods Store.

Today was a reminder of why I love traveling. It's not just about seeing new places; it's about immersing yourself in different cultures, trying new things, and creating lasting memories with your loved ones. As we head into the final days of our trip, I'm filled with gratitude for the experiences we've had and the memories we've made. I feel so lucky to be able to share these adventures with my family, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

I am also grateful that my family is so supportive of my passion for travel blogging on Evendo, even though sometimes I get so caught up in taking photos and writing notes that I forget to be fully present in the moment. But I know that these blog posts are a way for me to share my experiences with others and inspire them to explore the world, just as I was inspired by other travel bloggers before I started my own journey.

And while I sometimes miss the comforts of home in Kelowna, like our cozy house and familiar routines, I know that these travel experiences are enriching our lives in ways that we couldn't have imagined. As an Israeli-Canadian, I feel like I'm constantly straddling two worlds, but traveling helps me to connect with different cultures and broaden my perspective on life. It's a privilege to be able to explore the world and share these experiences with my family and my readers.