Family Cultural Adventure in Kyoto

Whispers of the Bamboo Forest

Today, we ventured into the enchanting world of Arashiyama, a district on the outskirts of Kyoto that promised serene landscapes and playful encounters. The crisp January air hinted at the adventures that awaited us, and I couldn't wait to immerse myself and my family in the natural beauty and cultural richness of this famed locale. It was a day filled with laughter, wonder, and moments that I know we’ll cherish for years to come.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Gion Nanba. The Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurant was tucked away in a quiet alley near Yasaka Shrine. Gion Nanba is known for its elegant and sophisticated dishes that make use of the tastes of the four seasons in a calm and quiet space. The food was lovely, all fresh and beautifully presented making this an excellent introduction to kaiseki cuisine. It was a perfect start to a day of exploration.

After breakfast, we made our way to Arashiyama, eager to experience its famed bamboo forest. The journey itself was a treat, watching the city slowly transition into a more rural landscape. As we stepped off the train, the air felt fresher, crisper, and carried a hint of earthy fragrance. The anticipation was palpable.

The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest was even more breathtaking than I had imagined. Towering stalks of bamboo swayed gently in the breeze, creating a mesmerizing symphony of rustling sounds. Sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, casting dappled shadows on the path, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Hanna was immediately captivated, her eyes wide with wonder as she reached out to touch the cool, smooth surface of the bamboo. Even Maximilian, usually more interested in historical sites, was impressed by the sheer scale and tranquility of the forest.


Discover the serene beauty of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, a tranquil escape filled with towering bamboo groves and enchanting pathways.

The forest whispers secrets to those who listen closely, a reminder of nature's enduring beauty and calming presence.

We strolled along the winding path, occasionally stopping to take photos and simply soak in the ambiance. The forest was relatively quiet, allowing us to fully appreciate the serenity of our surroundings. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over me, a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life back in Heidelberg. It was a moment of pure bliss, connecting with nature and sharing it with my family.

Leaving the bamboo forest, we headed towards Tenryu-ji Temple, a Zen temple with a rich history and stunning gardens. Founded in 1339, the temple presently serves as one of the headquarters of the Rinzai School of Zen Buddhism. The name “Tenryu-ji” was suggested by Ashikaga Tadayoshi (brother of the shōgun Ashikaga Takauji) following a dream he had of a golden dragon flying into the heavens from the river just south of the temple. Tenryū-ji's beautiful landscape garden and Sōgen Pond, famous for its use of shakkei (borrowed scenery), was laid out by Musō Soseki, an eminent Zen master.


Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. A cultural gem for every traveler.

The Sogen Pond Garden was a sight to behold, a serene oasis of meticulously manicured plants, artfully arranged rocks, and tranquil water features. The garden is designed to incorporate the surrounding mountains into its landscape, creating a sense of harmony and balance. We spent a considerable amount of time wandering through the garden, admiring the intricate details and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Hanna was particularly fascinated by the koi fish swimming in the pond, their vibrant colors adding a touch of liveliness to the serene setting.

After Tenryu-ji, our stomachs started to rumble, signaling that it was time for lunch. We decided to try Arash's Kitchen, a restaurant recommended for its Persian and Indian Halal cuisine. Arash's Kitchen is known for its generous portions, friendly staff, cozy atmosphere, and authentic flavors. The aroma of spices filled the air as we stepped inside, and we were immediately greeted by the warm and welcoming staff. We ordered a variety of dishes, including kebabs, biryani, and naan, all of which were bursting with flavor. It was a delightful culinary experience, a welcome change from the traditional Japanese cuisine we had been enjoying throughout our trip. Hanna especially enjoyed the naan bread, happily tearing off pieces and dipping them into the various sauces.


Experience authentic Asian cuisine at Arash's Kitchen in Kyoto—a culinary delight for every traveler seeking unique flavors.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we embarked on the most adventurous part of our day: a trek to Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama. Located on top of a hill in Arashiyama, the monkey park is home to a troop of about 120 Japanese Macaques that roam freely.


Discover the enchanting world of Japanese macaques at Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, a must-visit wildlife haven in Kyoto, Japan.

The hike up the mountain was challenging, but the promise of seeing wild monkeys kept us motivated. The trail wound its way through a dense forest, offering glimpses of the surrounding landscape. Hanna, despite her initial enthusiasm, soon started to tire, so Maximilian carried her on his shoulders for the remainder of the climb. I must admit, I was also feeling the strain, but the thought of the monkeys spurred me on.

Finally, we reached the summit, and were immediately greeted by the sight of monkeys frolicking in the open space. They were everywhere, grooming each other, playing, and generally causing mischief. Hanna was ecstatic, her initial apprehension quickly replaced by excitement. We purchased some monkey food (peanuts and apple slices) and entered the feeding area, a small enclosure where visitors can safely interact with the monkeys. It cost 100 yen for monkey food, and you can choose to give them either peanuts or apples. Each person is allowed to purchase one pack of monkey food, and you're asked to leave the hut once your food is gone.

The monkeys were surprisingly gentle, carefully taking the food from our hands. It was an incredible experience, getting so close to these wild creatures and observing their behavior. Hanna was particularly brave, giggling as a monkey delicately plucked a peanut from her outstretched hand. Even Maximilian, who usually maintains a safe distance from animals, couldn't help but smile as a monkey perched on the enclosure fence, eyeing him curiously.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the mountains, we reluctantly made our way back down the hill. The descent was much easier, and we were rewarded with stunning views of Kyoto sprawling below. We paused for a moment to take it all in, feeling grateful for the incredible day we had shared.

Before heading back to our hotel, we stopped by Kyoto Crafts Store to pick up a few souvenirs. The store was filled with beautiful handcrafted items, from delicate ceramics to intricate textiles. I purchased a small jade pendant, a nod to my Korean heritage, while Maximilian bought a traditional Japanese tea set. Hanna chose a colorful origami kit, eager to try her hand at creating her own paper creations.


Explore the essence of Kyoto's artistry at the Kyoto Crafts Store, where traditional handicrafts meet contemporary charm.

For dinner, we decided to try AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO, a vegan restaurant known for its plant-based fusion cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and warmly lit, and the staff were friendly. I ordered the vegan pancakes which were mindblowing! Yumm! Would eat again 10/10. expensive but totally worth it. They also ordered the vegan burger that didn't meet our expectations.


Discover exquisite vegan delights at AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO – where culinary creativity meets sustainable living.

As I sit here now, reflecting on our day in Arashiyama, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. It was a day filled with natural beauty, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences. From the serene bamboo forest to the playful monkeys, Arashiyama captured our hearts and left us with memories that we will cherish forever. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Ryoan-ji Temple, and Ninna-ji Temple. I am eager to see what new adventures await us in this captivating city.

And as I drift off to sleep, I can still hear the whispers of the bamboo forest, a gentle reminder of the magic we experienced today.