Reader’s Question: I will be going to Kyoto with my daughter and my nine-month-old grandchild. I have decided on the places I want to visit, but I’m unsure about the best order for sightseeing. Please advise me. Ideally, I would
like to explore on foot and use accurate train schedules. Our accommodation is a hotel near Kyoto Station. We will be in Kyoto from around 10 AM to about 5 PM the next day. The places I want to visit are: – Tōji (Mikagedō) – Kyoto Aquarium – Lunch at Kōsai for Kyoto duck cuisine (reservations available from 12 PM to 2 PM) and a stroll in Gion – TeamLab BioVoltaix Kyoto
Exploring Kyoto: A Magical Two Days with My Granddaughter
Hey there, fellow wanderlust enthusiasts! So, I recently took a trip to the breathtaking city of Kyoto with my daughter and my adorable nine-month-old grandchild. It was an adventure of a lifetime, filled with culture, history, and, well—let’s be real—a lot of baby giggles! If you’re planning a short visit to Kyoto with little ones in tow, let me share our itinerary that balanced exploration and relaxation.
We checked into our hotel near Kyoto Station, which was super convenient. I can’t stress enough how great it was to be close to transportation—it made getting around so much easier with a stroller. The excitement was palpable as we kicked off our two-day Kyoto adventure. We had a list of places we wanted to visit, but I was a little overwhelmed with how to fit everything in. So, let’s break it down!
The Morning: Tōji Temple
First on our list was Tōji, one of the most iconic landmarks in Kyoto, home to a stunning five-story pagoda. We arrived around 10:30 AM, and I was immediately struck by the serene atmosphere. The beauty of the temple grounds is something you can’t fully capture in pictures—it’s like stepping into a painting!
One thing I loved was the fact that Tōji wasn’t overly crowded early in the day. It gave us a chance to take our time. Plus, the temple allows strollers, which was a huge relief. My granddaughter was mesmerized by the colors and sounds around her, especially the gentle rustling of the leaves. I really recommend taking a leisurely stroll around the grounds; it’s a perfect way to soak in the history and tranquility.
We spent about an hour there, exploring the pagoda and snapping some silly family photos. It was a great start to our trip, but we had to keep moving—our lunch reservation at Kōsai was calling! So, we hopped back on the train, which was super easy from Tōji Station to Kyoto Station.
Lunch at Kōsai: A Culinary Delight
After a brief train ride, we arrived at Kyoto Station, and let me tell you, it’s a hub of activity! We made our way to Kōsai, a cozy little restaurant specializing in Kyoto duck cuisine. We were ready to indulge, and oh boy, did we make the right choice! The atmosphere was charming, and the staff were incredibly welcoming to our little squirt.
The duck was absolutely divine—tender, juicy, and so full of flavor! I’ll admit I was a bit skeptical at first, wondering if duck would be a hit with a baby. But my granddaughter seemed to enjoy the soft texture of the meat, and frankly, I couldn’t help but sneak bites off her plate. Who can resist duck, right?
After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll through Gion, one of Kyoto’s most famous districts. Oh, Gion! The traditional wooden houses, the sweet smell of matcha wafting from nearby tea shops, and the possibility of spotting a geisha all made it feel like we had stepped back in time. My granddaughter was happily dozing in her stroller, which gave my daughter and me some much-needed moments of nostalgia as we relished the sights.
TeamLab BioVoltaix Kyoto: A Digital Wonderland
Next stop—TeamLab BioVoltaix Kyoto! We headed there after our Gion experience, and I was genuinely excited about this immersive digital art installation. This place is like nothing I’ve ever seen, and I couldn’t wait for both of us to see it unfold! But I did wonder how a nine-month-old would react to all the lights and sounds. Would she be frightened? Would she love it?
To our surprise, my granddaughter was wide-eyed with wonder! The colorful visuals and interactive displays were captivating. I found myself getting lost in the art, and I was so glad my daughter was there to help wrangle the stroller. We wandered through rooms filled with sparkling lights and soundscapes that felt otherworldly. It was a delightful mix of technology and nature, which I think everyone should experience at least once!
One of the highlights for me was the room with the digital flowers that bloomed as you walked. It was like being inside a dream! We spent about an hour there, and I highly recommend visiting when in Kyoto. It’s a fantastic spot for all ages, and thankfully, stroller-friendly.
Wrapping Up Our Day
As our first day in Kyoto came to a close, we decided to take it easy and head back to the hotel. There’s something so comforting about returning to a familiar place after a long day of adventure. Honestly, I couldn’t help but feel a little tired—pushing a stroller up and down those quaint Kyoto streets is no easy feat! But every moment was worth it.
We settled in for the night, reminiscing about our first day. My daughter and I laughed about the duck lunch, the beauty of Tōji, and how our little munchkin managed to steal the show everywhere we went. It’s amazing how much joy a baby can bring to an adventure!
A New Day: More Kyoto Awaits
On our second day, we had a few more sights in mind, but I was determined to keep things light. After all, traveling with a little one means being flexible! We woke up refreshed and ready to tackle the day. I had my trusty itinerary in hand, and there was a sense of anticipation in the air.
Having a hotel near Kyoto Station was still proving to be a game changer. We hopped on the train and decided to explore the surrounding areas while keeping our baby’s schedule in mind. There was still so much to see!
Final Thoughts
As I reflect on our whirlwind two days in Kyoto, I can’t help but feel grateful for the experiences we shared. This city, with its blend of history and modernity, has a special place in my heart. It was incredibly rewarding to explore with my daughter and grandchild, creating memories that I will cherish forever.
If you’re ever in a similar situation—traveling with a baby—just remember to take it slow and soak in every moment. Kyoto has a way of enchanting you, and I promise, even with little ones, you can experience its magic.
So here’s my advice: pack light, be patient, and let the beauty of Kyoto unfold at its own pace. And don’t forget to indulge in the incredible local cuisine along the way! Safe travels, and may your journeys be filled with laughter and love.
