Unveiling the Magic of Japan's Timeless City, Kyoto

Nestled amidst ancient temples and serene gardens, Kyoto, Japan, beckons with an aura of timeless elegance, where the exquisite blend of traditional tea ceremonies, opulent ryokans, and Michelin-starred kaiseki dining promises a luxurious immersion into the heart of refined Japanese culture.

Our very own Francoise recently immersed herself in the magic of Kyoto, indulging in experiences such as thermal springs, Zen meditation, tea ceremonies, a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, exploring a traditional Kyoto house, and much more. Keep reading for her recap of this magical trip.

On my first day in Japan, I boarded the JR Haruka Kansai Airport to Kyoto, fondly known as the Hello Kitty Train. This was really cute and gave me a first insight into the quirkiness of this country! I stayed at the Hotel The Mitsui in Kyoto, where I enjoyed a curated Art Tour and a Tea Ceremony at Chakyo, featuring lobby artwork representing a Kimono, reflecting the Mitsui Family's original business. My first day concluded with a delightful dinner at Forni, an Italian all-day dining restaurant offering a culinary journey that combines delectable flavours with the charm of its garden setting.

The second day started with a Wellness breathing session and a Kintsugi Workshop in the Shiki-No-Ma room, with its traditional Japanese setting. I, along with the group, had the pleasure of a guided tour by Mari Katsui, an English-speaking guide with over 35 years of experience. Visits to Sennyuji Temple, Nijo Castle, and a special dinner at Shiki-No-Ma, featuring a private Maiko dance performance and a 10-course meal from the Michelin-starred Kinobu, made for an extraordinary experience!

My final day in Kyoto began with an Ikebana workshop at Shiki-No-Ma, followed by lunch at a local Soba noodles restaurant. The day continued with a Zen meditation and a tea ceremony with Head Priest Reverend Takafumi Kawakami at Myoshinji, Japan's largest zen temple complex. I also visited the prestigious Hosoo Salon, where the finest Kimonos are crafted. A stop at a traditional Kyoto house, a Machiya, and a dinner at Toki, the hotel's innovative Kyoto-French restaurant, concluded my enriching journey in Kyoto.

In three unforgettable days in Kyoto, I immersed myself in the rich cultural tapestry of the ancient city, experiencing a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese art, exquisite cuisine, and serene moments, making memories that echo Kyoto's timeless allure.

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