Curator’s statement
Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto provides a unique blend of tradition and modernity for guests, offering a special experience in Kyoto. With serene morning teas, exclusive details, and the essence of Japan, the hotel delivers exceptional hospitality. It embodies Kyoto's essence, providing an intimate and luxurious experience that defines luxury travel. Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto creates timeless moments of indulgence while offerring top-notch hospitality and comfort at this destination.
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Where to stay in Kyoto
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Things to do in Kyoto
Beyond the tranquil Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto lies a city steeped in culture and history, inviting guests to dive into its heritage.
Just nearby, Nijo Castle, a symbol of Japan's feudal era, boasts majestic gates and ornate chambers that narrate tales of shoguns and samurais. Its gardens, vibrant across the seasons, offer a historical experience like no other.
Nishiki Market, "Kyoto's Kitchen," is a bustling hub of exotic spices and local delicacies. More than a place for street food and souvenirs, it offers a glimpse into Kyoto's everyday life.
The Gion district, with its traditional wooden machiya houses, lets you step back in time. At night, geishas and lantern-lit streets add to its mystique, making Gion a living museum of tradition and beauty.
A short train ride away, the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine offers a peaceful retreat. Famous for its torii gates that wind through the forest, the shrine is a symbol of devotion and hope, with each gate representing stories of prosperity, dreams, and gratitude.
The Philosopher's Path, especially during cherry blossom season, offers a serene, reflective journey.
The Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji) and Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) embody Kyoto's Zen heritage, inviting visitors to a world where architectural details narrate Japan's history and aesthetics. Kyoto promises an enriching journey, offering a unique glimpse into a world of unmatched culture and beauty.
Day Trips:
Head to Arashiyama for its enchanting bamboo groves and serene boat ride down the Hozugawa River. Experience a peaceful escape into nature and traditional street foods.
Spend a day in Nara to meet the friendly deer, visit Todai-ji Temple with the world's largest bronze Buddha, and explore Japan's spiritual heritage and architectural wonders.
Places to eat & drink in Kyoto
Breakfast: The Tea Room - on-site, Enjoy Croissants, Confectionaries and Deserts and an Afternoon tea set.
Lunch: FORNI - On-site, Italian cuisine made from the freshest Italian and locally-sourced Kyoto ingredients. Enjoy handcrafted appetizers, fresh pasta, and oven roasted pizzas.
Dinner: TOKI - On-site, restaurant known for its delicious Japanese cuisine and elegant ambiance, where each dish is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted from the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients, telling the rich, savory story of Kyoto's culinary heritage.
Drinks: On-site, The Garden Bar at HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO - After a day of exploration, there's nothing more inviting than enjoying a signature cocktail at the hotel's own bar overlooking the garden courtyard. The mixologists craft drinks that tell a story, blending Japanese ingredients with international flair.
Other locations nearby:
Coffee/Tea: Usagi Coffee for charcoal lattes, matcha tea, affogato, and bunny castella. IMAYA Kyoto&COFFEE for breakfast sanswiches and lattes. Common. for coffee, toast, bakery items and cakes. Blue Bottle Coffee.
Restaurants: Menbaka Fire Ramen. Kikyo Sushi. Kichi Kichi Omurice.
Drinks: K36. Bar KOHAKU.
Need to know
For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Elizabeth Kaczka’s trip report, Unlocking Luxury in an Urban Oasis: Top Osaka Hotels, Japan.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Kyoto.
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