KYOTO
We loved Tokyo, of course — it’s electric, fast, and full of everything — but Kyoto felt like our true favorite. It’s where we connected most deeply with Japan. The city is steeped in tradition, and we leaned all the way in: we took part in a traditional tea ceremony, made our own washi paper, blended incense by hand, and even caught a glimpse of real geishas moving quietly through the streets. We spent one night in a historic ryokan to fully experience old-world Japanese hospitality, and the rest of our time exploring different neighborhoods, temples, and shops. If you’re looking to feel Japan — not just see it — this is the place.
Check out more images + videos from our trip in my Japan Highlights.
STAY
HIIRAGIYA
📍 Nakagyo-ku
Instagram: @hiiragiya_ryokan
If you’ve ever seen the I Love Lucy episode where they go to Japan and sleep on the floor, you’ll know exactly what I mean when I say Hiiragiya made me feel like I had stepped right into that scene — in the most magical way. This 200+ year old ryokan is one of the most historic stays in Kyoto, with a guest list that includes everyone from Charlie Chaplin to Elizabeth Taylor. It’s timeless in the truest sense — sliding paper doors, tatami floors, no bed in sight (until they come in and make it for you while you’re having dinner), and a hot spring tub that felt like a warm embrace after a day in the city.
We stayed for one night, and honestly, one to two nights is more than enough to soak in the full experience. It’s incredibly charming and very old-timey — a full sensory immersion into traditional Japanese hospitality. The kaiseki dinner here is a must, and it’s worth it just to experience how beautifully the meal unfolds course by course, like a quiet performance.
The owner — Ms. Akemi Nishimura — was the kindest soul. She personally came to greet every table during dinner, and when we checked out, she literally tried to carry my suitcases to the car. One detail that absolutely blew us away: they watch your car until it disappears around the corner, even if it’s two blocks away, and only then do they bow in unison. It’s that level of care and grace that makes this place unforgettable. It’s definitely a splurge, but if you’re looking for a true once-in-a-lifetime Kyoto stay, this is it.
View more moments from this experience on The Hiiragiya Post on Instagram.
FOUR SEASONS KYOTO
📍 Higashiyama
Instagram: @fskyoto
A luxurious retreat blending modern elegance with Kyoto’s serene beauty, set around a historic pond garden.
HOSHINOYA KYOTO
📍 Arashiyama
Instagram: @hoshinoya.official
A secluded riverside ryokan accessible only by boat, offering an immersive experience in Kyoto’s natural beauty.
HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO
📍 Nakagyo-ku
Instagram: @hotel_the_mitsui_kyoto
A refined fusion of heritage and contemporary luxury, with stunning architecture and an onsen-fed spa.
EAT
Kichi Kichi Omurice
📍 Nakagyo-ku
Instagram: @kichikichi_omuricel
You’ve probably seen the viral videos of Kichi Kichi Omurice — the theatrics, the fluffy omelets, the rice flip — but nothing compares to experiencing it in person. We did this dinner while in Kyoto, and honestly, it was one of the most joyful meals of our trip. The chef is truly a star — so full of energy, charm, and the kindest spirit. He had us smiling the entire time. The space is tiny, which makes reservations hard to come by online, so we recommend doing what we did: show up at the time listed on his website, line up outside, and he’ll come out personally to assign time slots for dinner. It’s an experience you won’t forget — and one that’s definitely worth the wait.
Pizzeria De Ciro
📍 Nakagyo-ku
Instagram: @pizzeria_da_ciro_kyoto
Wabiya Korekido
📍 Gion
Instagram: @wabiyakorekido
Yagura
📍 Nakagyo-ku
A hidden gem for Kyoto-style udon and soba, known for its rich dashi broth and handmade noodles.
Sushi Hayashi
📍 Shimogyo-ku
QUICK BITES + CAFES
This is Shizen
📍 Nakagyo-ku
Instagram: @thisisshizen_thisisnature
A beautifully designed café blending Scandinavian and Japanese aesthetics, serving specialty coffee and amazing floral ice cream.
Café Kitsuné
📍 Gion
Instagram: @cafekitsune
A stylish café by Maison Kitsuné, offering signature fox-shaped cookies and excellent coffee in a minimalist setting.
Arashiyama Rilakkuma
📍 Shimogyo-ku
A must-visit for Rilakkuma fans, serving adorable teddy bear ice cream.
THINGS TO DO
Camellia Tea – Green Tea Ceremony
📍 Higashiyama
Instagram: @camellia.kyoto
Washi Paper Making Class
📍 Nakagyo-ku
View more moments from this experience on The Washi Paper Making Class post.
POJ Studio
📍 Nakagyo-ku
Instagram: @pojstudio
A beautifully curated studio showcasing Kyoto’s artisanal craftsmanship, from ceramics to textiles and woodworking.
View more moments from this experience on The POJ Studio post.
Bamboo Forest
📍 Arashiyama
Wander through towering bamboo groves in this magical and serene part of Kyoto, a must-visit for nature lovers.
SHOPPING
Maison Kitsuné
📍 Nakagyo-ku
Instagram: @maisonkitsune
A Paris-meets-Tokyo lifestyle brand offering stylish apparel, accessories, and a chic café experience.
Higashiyama District
📍 Higashiyama
A charming historic district lined with traditional shops selling Kiyomizu-yaki pottery, handmade crafts, and Kyoto souvenirs.
Daimaru Department Store
📍 Shimogyo-ku
Instagram: @daimaruofficial
A high-end department store featuring luxury fashion, gourmet food halls, and beautifully packaged Kyoto sweets.
BARS
L’Escamoteur
📍 Shimogyo-ku
Instagram: @escamoteurbar
A magical, dimly lit speakeasy run by a former magician—expect theatrical cocktails and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
Bee’s Knees
📍 Nakagyo-ku
Instagram: @bees.knees.kyoto
A stylish, Prohibition-era-inspired bar serving expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, jazz-infused setting.