Family Cultural Adventure in Kyoto

Whispers of Gold and Stone

Today, Kyoto unveiled more of its enchanting soul to me. It was a day filled with shimmering gold, tranquil gardens, and the vibrant energy of local life. Hanna was especially excited, and even Maximilian, who usually prefers the structured world of software, found himself captivated by the serene beauty around us. It's amazing how a change of scenery can affect us all so differently.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi. The aroma of freshly baked pastries and strong coffee filled the air, a perfect start to a day of exploration. Hanna, of course, opted for a chocolate croissant, while Maximilian and I enjoyed a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and pickled vegetables. Fuelled up, we set off to our first destination: Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion.


Explore Kinkaku-ji, the breathtaking Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, where history and nature blend beautifully in a tranquil setting.
As we approached Kinkaku-ji, the sight of the temple took my breath away. The top two floors, covered entirely in gold leaf, shimmered in the morning sun, reflecting brilliantly onto the serene Mirror Pond below. It felt like stepping into a postcard. The history of Kinkaku-ji is fascinating; originally built as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu in 1397, it was later converted into a Zen temple after his death. The temple has been rebuilt several times, most recently in 1955, after being burned down by a monk in 1950. The dedication to preserving this cultural icon is truly admirable. Hanna was mesmerized by the gold, asking endless questions about how it was made and why it was so shiny. I tried my best to explain the different architectural styles of each floor – the Shinden style of the Heian period on the first floor, the Bukke style of samurai residences on the second, and the Zen temple style on the third.

We strolled through the gardens surrounding Kinkaku-ji, admiring the meticulously landscaped grounds and the various statues scattered throughout. I tossed a coin into the Anmintaku Pond, hoping for a bit of good luck. We even stopped by the Sekkatei Teahouse, added during the Edo period, though we didn't have time for tea. The weather in Kyoto today was crisp, with a high of around 9°C (48°F), perfect for walking and exploring. I was glad I'd packed warm clothing for all of us.

In stillness, the mind finds its own reflection, revealing the golden truths that lie within.

Next on our itinerary was Ryoan-ji, famous for its enigmatic Zen garden. This was a place I was particularly excited about. The garden, a rectangle of pebbles surrounded by low earthen walls, contains fifteen rocks arranged in small groups on patches of moss. The mystery surrounding the garden's meaning is part of its allure. Some believe it represents islands in a stream, a tiger family crossing a river, or even an abstract concept like infinity. From any vantage point, at least one of the rocks is always hidden, adding to the sense of intrigue. As we sat on the veranda of the Hojo, the head priest's former residence, contemplating the garden, I felt a sense of calm wash over me. Hanna, however, was more interested in counting the rocks and trying to figure out which one was hidden from each viewpoint. Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the garden's design and the various theories surrounding its meaning.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Ryōan-ji in Kyoto, a renowned Zen temple known for its iconic rock garden and rich cultural heritage.
After Ryoan-ji, we visited Ninna-ji Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history. Founded in 888 by Emperor Uda, Ninna-ji has served as both an imperial residence and a Buddhist temple. The temple complex is vast, with a stunning five-story pagoda and beautiful gardens. We wandered through the grounds, admiring the traditional architecture and the serene atmosphere. Although Ninna-ji is known for its late-blooming cherry trees, which bloom around mid-April, the winter landscape had its own unique charm. The bare branches of the trees against the backdrop of the temple buildings created a stark, yet beautiful scene. We explored the Goten, the former residence of the head priest, admiring the elegantly painted sliding doors and the rock and pond gardens.


Discover the tranquility and beauty of Ninna-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, showcasing stunning architecture and serene gardens.
By late afternoon, we were ready for a change of pace, so we headed to Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street. This bustling arcade, celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2022, is a vibrant mix of traditional shops and modern stores. We strolled along the covered street, browsing the various goods on offer. Hanna was delighted by the colorful souvenirs and the array of street food. We sampled some local treats, including castella manju from Londonya, a sweet bun filled with white bean paste. I picked up a few gifts for friends back home, while Maximilian found a new book at one of the bookstores.


Explore Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street, a vibrant hub of traditional crafts, delicious street food, and unique shopping experiences in the heart of Kyoto.
For lunch, we enjoyed a delightful meal at Masayoshi Japanese Dining. The restaurant is small and intimate, with a minimalist decor that reflects the chef's attention to detail. We opted for the omakase experience, leaving the menu choices up to the chef. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The sushi was incredibly fresh, and the appetizers were inventive and delicious. Hanna, surprisingly, enjoyed the miso soup the most, declaring it the best she had ever tasted. Maximilian was impressed by the chef's skill and the quality of the ingredients. The service was attentive and personalized, making us feel like honored guests.


Experience authentic Japanese steakhouse dining at Masayoshi in Kyoto—where tradition meets culinary excellence.
As evening approached, we made our way to The SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO for dinner. This restaurant, located in a former Japanese painter's residence, is known for its beautiful gardens and elegant atmosphere. The setting was truly magical, with the buildings and gardens illuminated by soft lighting. We enjoyed a delicious Italian meal, savoring the flavors of each dish while soaking in the ambiance. Hanna, tired from a day of exploring, fell asleep in my arms during dessert. Maximilian and I lingered over our coffee, reflecting on the day's adventures. The weather was still chilly, so we were grateful for the warm and cozy atmosphere of the restaurant.


Discover the perfect blend of Italian culinary artistry and traditional Japanese ambiance at The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto.
Tomorrow, we plan to visit Nijō Castle, the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. I'm also hoping to find some time to explore more of Kyoto's culinary scene. Maximilian is looking forward to unwinding at L'Escamoteur, a bar known for its creative cocktails. It will be another day of discovery, blending history, culture, and relaxation. As I write this, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Kyoto is a city that truly captivates the senses, and I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings.

Before heading back to Hotel Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi Sanjo, we walked along the Kiyamachi-dori, enjoying the serene atmosphere by the Takase River. The Premium Pound Sanjo Kiyamachi looked inviting, and I made a mental note to perhaps try it another evening. Back at the hotel, Hanna was soon fast asleep, dreaming of golden temples and peaceful gardens. Maximilian and I enjoyed a quiet cup of tea, savoring the memories of the day. Kyoto is a city that truly captivates the senses, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family.


Discover the heart of Kyoto at Hotel Resol Kawaramachi Sanjo, where comfort meets convenience in a vibrant location, perfect for all travelers.
Each temple, garden, and meal in Kyoto is a brushstroke on the canvas of our family's memories, creating a masterpiece of shared moments.