Kyoto: A Journey Through Timeless Traditions and Luxurious Serenity

Cultural immersion

• Private tea ceremony in a historic teahouse
  Experience the grace and tradition of a Japanese tea ceremony in an intimate, historic teahouse. A tea master will guide you through this centuries-old ritual, offering insight into the culture and philosophy behind every movement.

• Fushimi Inari Taisha’s thousand torii gates
  Stroll through the iconic red torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine at dawn or dusk for an enchanting, crowd-free experience. Opt for a private guide to learn the spiritual and historical significance of this sacred site.

• Gion geisha district walking tour
  Walk through the cobblestone streets of Gion with an expert guide who will share the stories of Kyoto’s geisha culture. Enhance your evening with a private geisha performance paired with a kaiseki dinner.

• Nishiki Market culinary exploration
  Explore Kyoto’s vibrant culinary scene at Nishiki Market, known as "Kyoto's Kitchen." Join a private food tour to sample local delicacies like yatsuhashi, matcha sweets and fresh seafood while learning about Kyoto’s food traditions.

Luxury shopping & art

• Kyoto handicraft workshops
  Join artisans in creating traditional Kyoto crafts, such as kyo-yuzen silk dyeing, kumihimo braided cords or kintsugi, the art of repairing ceramics with gold. These workshops provide a hands-on connection to Kyoto’s artistic heritage.

• Kyoto’s antique district
  Browse the charming antique shops of Kyoto’s Teramachi Street and Shinmonzen-dori for rare finds, from Edo-period scrolls to exquisite ceramics. Enhance your visit with a private guide who can share insights into Kyoto’s art history.

• Nanzenji Temple art tour
  Explore the temple grounds of Nanzenji, home to stunning traditional paintings and Zen gardens. Arrange for an expert art historian to guide your visit for a deeper appreciation of its cultural significance.

Serene retreats

• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Togetsukyo Bridge
  Stroll through the magical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove early in the morning for a peaceful experience. Extend your visit with a private boat ride on the Hozugawa River, offering stunning views of Kyoto’s natural beauty.

• Private Zen garden meditation
  Experience the tranquility of Kyoto’s Zen gardens with a private meditation session led by a Buddhist monk. Choose from historic temples such as Ryoanji or Kenninji for this transformative experience.

• Philosopher’s Path Walk
  Take a meditative stroll along the Philosopher’s Path, lined with cherry trees and quaint shops. Visit nearby temples like Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) and Nanzenji for a serene cultural experience.

Day trips:

• Nara: Visit Todai-ji Temple to marvel at the Great Buddha, interact with friendly deer in Nara Park and walk the enchanting lantern-lit paths of Kasuga Taisha Shrine.

• Uji: Renowned for its green tea, Uji offers premium tea-tasting experiences and the picturesque Byodoin Temple.

• Himeji: Explore the grandeur of Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and stroll through the serene Koko-en Garden.

• Kobe: Indulge in the world-famous Kobe beef, visit the historic Kitano Ijinkan district and enjoy panoramic harbor views.

• Osaka: Experience the vibrant city life of Osaka with a visit to Osaka Castle, the lively Dotonbori district, and iconic street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.

• Naoshima: Immerse yourself in contemporary art on this "art island," featuring works by Tadao Ando and Yayoi Kusama.

Exquisite dining

Kikunoi
A Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurant where seasonal ingredients and artful presentation create a symphony of flavors.

Toki at HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO
Enjoy contemporary interpretations of Kyoto cuisine crafted with precision and elegance.

Gion Maruyama
Relish refined kaiseki dining at this Michelin-starred gem located in the heart of Gion.

Menbaka Fire Ramen
Savor a fiery spectacle as your ramen is dramatically prepared, creating a dining experience unlike any other.

Izumi
Located in THE HIRAMATSU Kyoto, this innovative restaurant celebrates the bounty of Kyoto’s seasons.

Hidden gems

Shoraian
A serene tofu-specialty restaurant nestled along the Hozugawa River, offering exquisite views and delicate flavors.

Izuju
Kyoto-style sushi, including sabazushi and inarizushi, is perfected at this family-run establishment.

Wakuden
Discover the artistry of kappo-style dining with seasonal tasting menus that honor Kyoto’s culinary heritage.

Bars & cafés

The Garden Bar
Unwind with premium spirits and seasonal cocktails in a tranquil garden setting.

L’Escamoteur Bar
This speakeasy-style bar in Gion blends vintage charm with theatrical and creative cocktails.

Cacao Magic
Delight in artisanal chocolates and unique cacao-based drinks at this hidden café.

Nokishita711
A cozy café-bar offering inventive matcha cocktails and flavorful liqueurs.