Family Cultural Adventure in Kyoto

Kyoto's Timeless Beauty

Today marked the beginning of our family's cultural adventure in Kyoto, and what a start it was! From the mesmerizing vermilion gates of Fushimi Inari to the breathtaking views from Kiyomizu-dera, Kyoto has already captured our hearts. Despite the chill of January, the city exuded a warmth that only centuries of history and tradition can provide.

Our day began early, fueled by excitement and a hearty breakfast at Kizahashi. The restaurant, conveniently located, offered a delightful start with traditional Japanese fare. Hanna was particularly thrilled with her portion of tamagoyaki, and Maximilian and I enjoyed the perfectly balanced miso soup. It's always a joy to find a place that caters to all our tastes, setting the tone for a day of exploration. I made sure to pack extra snacks for Hanna, remembering how quickly her energy can deplete when we're on the move.

Our first stop was Fushimi Inari Taisha, famed for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding up the mountainside. The scene was simply breathtaking. Even in winter, the contrast of the vermilion against the green of the surrounding forest was striking. As we walked through the seemingly endless tunnel of gates, I felt a sense of peace and wonder. The air was crisp, and the sunlight filtered through the gates, creating an ethereal atmosphere. It was a photographer's dream, and I snapped away, trying to capture the magic of the moment. I even managed to get a few shots of Maximilian and Hanna silhouetted against the bright vermilion, creating memories we'll cherish forever.


Explore the enchanting Fushimi Inari Shrine, home to thousands of vibrant torii gates, where tradition and breathtaking beauty await every visitor.

The journey through Fushimi Inari's torii gates is not just a walk, but a passage through time and tradition, connecting the earthly with the spiritual.

Hanna, ever the curious one, peppered us with questions about the foxes (kitsune) that guard the shrine. I explained their significance as messengers of Inari, the god of rice, and she was fascinated. We even bought her a small fox figurine as a souvenir, which she promptly named 'Kitsu'. The hike up the mountain was invigorating, and the higher we climbed, the more stunning the views became. The entire city of Kyoto stretched out before us, a tapestry of temples, gardens, and traditional houses. Although we didn't make it to the very top, we soaked in the beauty and tranquility of the shrine. I was glad I had the foresight to pack comfortable walking shoes; my feet were grateful for the support!

After descending from Fushimi Inari, we were ready for lunch. We chose Kyoto cuisine Teramachi Yoshikura, eager to sample some authentic local flavors. The restaurant was a delightful find, with a cozy atmosphere and a menu that showcased the best of Kyoto's culinary traditions. Maximilian and I opted for the Obanzai All-You-Can-Eat option, relishing the variety of small, flavorful dishes. Hanna, always a fan of simpler fare, enjoyed a bowl of perfectly cooked rice with some grilled fish. The staff were incredibly welcoming, and we felt right at home. It was the perfect place to recharge before our next adventure.


Discover authentic Kyoto cuisine at Teramachi Yoshikura – where traditional flavors meet modern creativity in an unforgettable dining experience.

Next on our itinerary was Kiyomizu-dera, another of Kyoto's iconic temples. Perched on a hillside, the temple offered panoramic views of the city. The main hall, with its wooden stage extending out over the slope, was an architectural marvel. I was in awe of the craftsmanship and the sheer scale of the structure, especially considering it was built without the use of nails. The views from the stage were simply breathtaking. We could see the entire city spread out before us, with the mountains in the distance providing a stunning backdrop. Even in the winter light, the scene was captivating.


Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto, where culture and nature harmoniously blend.

We explored the temple grounds, admiring the various halls, pagodas, and gardens. Hanna was particularly fascinated by the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors can drink from three separate streams, each said to bestow different benefits: longevity, success in studies, and a happy love life. Of course, we all had to partake, hoping for a bit of good fortune in each area. The temple was quite crowded, but the atmosphere was festive and lively. Many visitors were dressed in traditional kimonos, adding to the charm and beauty of the scene. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a special place with my family.

Before dinner, we decided to indulge in a bit of shopping at Daimaru Kyoto Store. The department store was a treasure trove of local crafts, souvenirs, and delectable treats. We wandered through the various floors, admiring the exquisite displays of kimonos, ceramics, and other traditional goods. Hanna was particularly drawn to the sweets section, where she insisted on sampling several different types of mochi. Maximilian, ever the practical one, was on the lookout for a new lens for his camera. I ended up buying a beautiful silk scarf as a memento of our trip. Daimaru was definitely a shopper's paradise, and we left with our bags full of treasures.


Explore the heart of Kyoto shopping at Daimaru Kyoto Store, where tradition meets modernity in a vibrant department store experience.

For dinner, we ventured to Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki & Teppan-yaki Kamehameha. The restaurant was small and cozy, with a lively atmosphere. The chefs were skilled and entertaining, cooking the okonomiyaki right in front of us on a large teppan grill. The aroma was tantalizing, and we couldn't wait to dig in. Maximilian and I both ordered the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, which was layered with noodles, cabbage, and various other ingredients. Hanna, being a bit more picky, opted for a simple omelet. The okonomiyaki was absolutely delicious, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It was the perfect way to end a long and fulfilling day.


Discover authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Kamehameha, Kyoto's premier destination for delicious Japanese cuisine.

As we walked back to Hotel Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi Sanjo, I reflected on all that we had seen and done. Kyoto had exceeded all of my expectations. The city was a seamless blend of ancient traditions and modern life, with something to offer everyone. I was grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family, and I knew that we would create memories that would last a lifetime. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel excited about what tomorrow would bring. We are planning to explore the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and visit the playful monkeys at Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama. I'm sure Hanna will be thrilled to see the monkeys up close! I am also excited to visit Tenryu-ji Temple, known for its beautiful Zen garden.


Discover the heart of Kyoto at Hotel Resol Kawaramachi Sanjo, where comfort meets convenience in a vibrant location, perfect for all travelers.

Tomorrow, I will be sure to pack the umbrella I forgot today, as the weather forecast predicts a chance of rain. A Japanese phrasebook would also be helpful, as we encountered a few situations today where communication was a bit challenging. Despite these minor hiccups, today was a resounding success, and I am eager to continue our cultural adventure in Kyoto. I am looking forward to sharing more of our experiences with you all! Until tomorrow!