[Kyoto] CHOYA UME STUDIO: An Umeshu Making Experience to Delight the Five Senses

Umeshu (Japanese ume liqueur) has been capturing hearts not only across Japan but around the world. If you are seeking a truly authentic umeshu experience during your time in Japan, the CHOYA UME STUDIO in Kyoto delivers something special. This ume (plum)-themed specialty store, opened in June 2025 along Kyoto's vibrant Sanjo-dori street, offers not only an impressive selection of ume products, but also provides hands-on experiences where guests can craft their own umeshu and ume syrup from scratch. Here's what travellers can expect from this unique Kyoto experience, including umeshu basics and what makes the visit worthwhile.

Kyoto

2025.10.30

[Kyoto] Experience the Thrilling Scenery of the Hozugawa River Boat Ride in Arashiyama

[Kyoto] Discover the Exquisite Craftsmanship of Japanese Kitchen Knives at Musashi Japan and Seisuke Knife

Kyoto has long been Japan’s cultural heart and continues to attract skilled craftspeople dedicated to refining their art. Although the city isn’t traditionally known for knife production, it’s home to numerous workshops and a growing number of stores that create and supply innovative Japanese knives—modern in function yet rooted in traditional techniques.

In this article, we delve into the unique world of Japanese knives in Kyoto, explain how to choose the right blade, and introduce two of the best places to buy one: Musashi Japan and Seisuke Knife.

Kyoto

2025.08.31

[Kyoto] The Essential Bucket List for Attractions in Kyoto: What to See, Do, and Eat in the Ancient City

Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, is renowned for its breathtaking temples, seasonal beauty, and exceptional culinary experiences. With so many options to choose from, planning a visit can easily become overwhelming. To help travelers make the most of their time, this guide highlights the best of Kyoto across three key themes: what to see, what to do, and what to eat. From iconic sites like Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine to hands-on matcha tea ceremony experiences, the guide covers a range of must-visit spots and activities. It also includes tailored itinerary ideas for both short visits and full-day explorations, making it easier for visitors to craft their perfect Kyoto travel experience.

Kyoto

2025.08.12

[Kyoto] TAVINOS Summer Festival & Ring Toss Showdown 2025

Step into a world of summer delight at HOTEL TAVINOS Kyoto and experience the vibrant TAVINOS Summer Festival. From fun games to interactive workshops, there's something here for everyone—and it all centers around our signature event, the Ring Toss Showdown 2025!

Festival Period: August 8-23, 2025
Daily Time: 13:00-20:00

Kyoto

2025.07.30

[Kyoto] Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine: A Spiritual Hike Through the “Senbon Torii” Thousand Torii Gates

A visit to Kyoto would not be complete without a stop at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, one of Japan’s most iconic and visually striking landmarks. Renowned for its thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates, this sacred site offers more than just a photo opportunity—it’s a spiritual, cultural, and hiking experience rolled into one. Whether you're seeking divine blessings, panoramic views, or a peaceful escape into nature, Fushimi Inari is a must-visit destination just minutes from central Kyoto.

Kyoto

2025.07.18

[Kyoto] Gion Kagai Art Museum: Kyoto’s Window into Geiko and Maiko Culture

On the eastern side of Kyoto’s Kamogawa River lies a warren of attractive lantern-lit cobblestone streets, lined with traditional machiya-style buildings. This is Gion, Kyoto’s historic entertainment district, renowned worldwide for its deep connections to geisha (traditional Japanese female entertainer and performing artist) culture. As dusk falls, lattice-doored teahouses and other high-end establishments open their doors to guests. Here, geiko (female professional entertainers skilled in traditional performing arts who enliven banquets) and maiko (geiko in training) in their mesmerizing makeup and colourful kimonos, can be spotted dashing from door to door. This article will cover the attractions of the Gion Kagai Art Museum—a place where visitors from overseas can be immersed in the mysterious world of geiko and maiko.

Kyoto

2025.07.12

[Kyoto] Philosopher’s Path: A Tranquil Stroll through Japan’s Scenic and Historic Heart

Kyoto is home to some of Japan’s most iconic temples, shrines, and scenic walks, but one of the most serene and contemplative routes is the Philosopher’s Path, known as Tetsugaku no Michi in Japanese. Running through the northern part of Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, this two-kilometer stone path follows a peaceful canal lined with hundreds of cherry blossom trees. The path is especially famous for its breathtaking sakura in spring, making it one of Kyoto’s most beloved spots for hanami (cherry blossom viewing). But regardless of the season, the Philosopher’s Path offers a tranquil walk through history and nature, providing visitors with a chance to experience the reflective atmosphere that inspired one of Japan’s greatest philosophers, Nishida Kitaro.

Kyoto

2025.07.06

[Kyoto] Experience Zazen Meditation, Kyoto Matcha Tea, and a Zen Garden Tour at Daisen-in Temple!

If you’re searching for an authentic Zen experience in Kyoto, Daisen-in Temple is one of the most tourist-friendly places to try zazen meditation in the ancient capital of Japan. Famous for its traditional Japanese architecture and beautifully preserved Japanese garden, Daisen-in offers visitors a chance to discover the art of meditation while exploring one of the country’s national treasures. Take the time to slow down, clear your mind, and experience true Zen in a deeply historical setting—an experience unique to Kyoto!

Kyoto

2025.06.22

[Kyoto] How to Travel Between Tokyo and Kyoto by Shinkansen, Bus and Flight

Tokyo and Kyoto are two of Japan’s most iconic cities, each offering a unique experience—one buzzing with futuristic urban energy, the other steeped in centuries of cultural tradition. For many international visitors, both cities are essential stops on a single itinerary, making efficient and reliable transportation a key part of the journey. If you're planning to travel between Tokyo and Kyoto by public transport, this guide breaks down the most popular options—such as the Shinkansen and highway buses—with travel times, costs and tips tailored for first-time visitors.

Kyoto

2025.06.14

[Kyoto] Gion Festival: Experience the Largest Summer Festival in Kyoto

Gion Festival (Gion Matsuri, 祇園祭り) is one of Japan most famous and historic festivals. Held every July in Kyoto, its long history dates more than 1100 years back, when it was first performed as a religious ceremony to calm and appease gods during an epidemic outbreak, and since then has evolved into a vibrant, month-long celebration deeply rooted in life of locals.

Kyoto

2025.05.18

[Kyoto] Explore Souvenirs at the Kyoto Handicraft Center, from Traditional to Modern Crafts

If you’re searching for the perfect souvenir to commemorate your trip to Kyoto, look no further than the Kyoto Handicraft Center! This comprehensive shopping and cultural experience spot has a wide selection of souvenirs, ranging from traditional crafts to modern artworks. In this article, we’ll delve into some of the many fascinating items you can find and purchase here, including popular souvenirs such as traditional furoshiki wrapping cloths, kokeshi dolls and other best-selling goods.

Kyoto

2025.05.13

[Kyoto] Say ‘Cheers’ in Kyoto! Sake Breweries in the City that Offer a Craft Beer Tasting Experience

[Kyoto] Experience cherry blossom season in Kyoto with these top 3 must-visit spots

[Kyoto] Take a Ride to the Kyoto Railway Museum and Discover the Amazing World of Trains!

Located just down the tracks from JR Kyoto Station, the Kyoto Railway Museum is a fantastic place to go for train lovers of all ages, or anyone with even a passing interest in Japan’s celebrated rail network. Here visitors can learn about the rich history and technological innovations of Japanese railways, with many large-scale and fun interactive exhibits designed to inform and entertain. The museum offers a real steam locomotive ‘SL Steam’ experience, along with a huge collection of original vehicles on display, plus moving models and train simulators – there is something for everyone!

Kyoto

2025.03.10