Family Cultural Adventure in Kyoto

Kyoto's Quiet Charms

Today in Kyoto was a beautiful blend of the traditional and the contemporary, a reminder of why this city holds such a special place in my heart. From the serene gardens to the cutting-edge designs, every corner offered something new to discover. It was a day for reflection, inspiration, and a little bit of retail therapy – the perfect combination for a travel blogger seeking to capture the essence of Kyoto.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Kikunoi Roan. It's always a treat to start the day with such refined Japanese cuisine. The subtle flavors and delicate presentation were a gentle awakening for the senses, setting a positive tone for the day ahead. I am always impressed by how Kikunoi Roan manages to balance tradition with a modern sensibility. Maximilian and Hanna enjoyed it too, although Hanna was more excited about the prospect of exploring gardens later in the day.


Experience the art of kaiseki dining at Kikunoi Roan in Kyoto - where seasonal flavors meet exquisite presentation.

After breakfast, we made our way to Heian Shrine. The crisp January air added to the sense of tranquility as we approached the grand red Otenmon gate. The shrine was established in 1895, dedicated to Emperor Kanmu, who moved the capital to Kyoto in 794, and Emperor Komei, the last emperor to reside in Kyoto. The architecture is a stunning, scaled-down replica of the original Imperial Palace, offering a glimpse into Kyoto's rich history. The vast courtyard provided ample space for Hanna to run around, while Maximilian and I took in the beauty of the surroundings. Even in winter, the meticulously maintained gardens held a certain charm. The bare trees and frosted landscape evoked a sense of peaceful contemplation.


Explore Heian Shrine in Kyoto for a serene experience of stunning gardens, rich history, and traditional Japanese architecture.

I remembered reading about the Heian Shrine New Year Dances, a Shinshun Hounou performance, held at the shrine every New Year's Day. I made a mental note to try and attend the event next year, as the traditional art forms are offered as a tribute and are open for everyone to enjoy.

The beauty of Kyoto lies not just in its ancient temples but in the seamless blend of tradition and modernity that permeates every aspect of life.

Next on our itinerary was the Kyoto Botanical Gardens. Founded in 1924, it is the oldest public botanical garden in Japan. Despite the winter chill, the gardens were far from barren. The conservatory, one of the largest in Japan, was a tropical paradise filled with exotic plants from around the world. Hanna was particularly fascinated by the carnivorous plants, while I was captivated by the vibrant orchids. Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, appreciated the detailed labeling and informative displays. We spent a good few hours wandering through the different sections, each offering a unique microclimate and a stunning array of flora.


Explore the Kyoto Botanical Gardens, a tranquil oasis showcasing diverse flora and stunning landscapes in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.

I found myself reflecting on the history of the gardens. It was interesting to learn that the gardens had fallen into disuse in 1945 but were thankfully reopened in 1961. Today, it stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of nature and the importance of preserving green spaces in urban environments. It's truly a living museum of plants, offering opportunities for both education and relaxation.

For lunch, we enjoyed a delightful meal at Hyoto Shijo Karasuma. I chose this restaurant because of its elegant setting and commitment to using local ingredients. The dashi shabu was a particular highlight, featuring premium pork and Kyo Yasai (Kyoto vegetables) in a flavorful broth. It was the perfect way to warm up after our time in the gardens. Hanna enjoyed the children's menu, which was thoughtfully prepared and presented. Maximilian appreciated the restaurant's attention to detail and the impeccable service.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors with exquisite hot pot and Kaiseki dishes at Hyoto Shijo Karasuma in Kyoto.

After lunch, I was eager to visit the MoMA Design Store Kyoto. As a design enthusiast, I had been looking forward to this all week. The store is located in the Mina Kyoto building and offers a curated selection of products that blend modern art with everyday functionality. From home décor to stationery, everything in the store was thoughtfully designed and beautifully crafted. I found myself drawn to a set of minimalist ceramic bowls, which I knew would be perfect for showcasing my Korean dishes back in Heidelberg. Hanna, surprisingly, was captivated by a series of architectural building blocks, while Maximilian admired the sleek tech gadgets.


Explore the MoMA Design Store Kyoto: A treasure trove of innovative art and design products that capture the spirit of creativity.

I've always admired how the MoMA Design Store manages to curate items that tell a story of creativity and craftsmanship. The store's ambiance is a reflection of Kyoto's vibrant artistic scene, making it an inspiring environment for both tourists and locals. It's a place where you can find a memorable gift or a special keepsake from your travels, something that resonates with the essence of modern design and traditional Japanese culture.

Our final culinary experience of the day was at Sakuragawa for dinner. This restaurant, known for its Kaiseki cuisine, offered a more traditional dining experience. The chef's expertise was evident in every dish, from the delicate sashimi to the flavorful tempura. The presentation was exquisite, each plate a work of art. We opted for the Kaiseki Lunch course and the chef adjusted the courses based on the budget. We also learned that Sakuragawa sources ingredients to cooking methods, ensuring excellence at every step until the dish reaches your table.


Discover authentic Kaiseki dining at Sakuragawa in Kyoto – where culinary artistry meets traditional Japanese flavors.

As we savored the final course, I reflected on the day's adventures. From the serene beauty of Heian Shrine to the cutting-edge designs at the MoMA Design Store, Kyoto had once again captivated my senses. It's a city that effortlessly blends the old and the new, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Gion district and visit Yasaka Shrine. I'm particularly excited about the prospect of wandering through Gion's historic streets and perhaps catching a glimpse of a geisha. We'll also be stopping by The Common One Bar Kyoto for a relaxing evening drink. I'm sure it will be another day filled with discovery and wonder.

As I sit here in our hotel room, writing these words, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Travel is not just about seeing new places; it's about creating lasting memories and strengthening the bonds that connect us. And Kyoto, with its timeless beauty and cultural richness, is the perfect place to do just that. I think I will purchase a Japanese phrasebook tomorrow, since I forgot to bring one.

Until tomorrow, sayōnara!