Why Kyoto?
Kyoto, the birthplace of geiko
Kyoto is the birthplace of maiko and geisha (geiko in the local dialect) culture with the Gion district its spiritual home. The wooden teahouses and traditional restaurants of well preserved areas such as Hanami-koji Street and Pontocho offer the best chance to spot a geisha elegantly scurrying to their next appointment.
Kyoto has one of the largest collections of Unesco World Heritage Sites, which includes 12 Buddhist temples, three Shinto shrines and one historic castle. Over 400 shrines are dedicated to the ancient religion of Japan.
CAFÉS
Check out these cafes
Astrea Coffee Kyoto
Take a break at this cafe after spending the day at the Shijo Karasuma shopping district. Founded by Yuuya Takaoka, the cafe offers an assortment of classic and innovative brews, from long black to fruit latte. Pair your drink with a sweet or savoury toast—try its seasonal fruit press sando that sees seasonal fruits and whipped cream sandwiched between velvety slices of bread. Savouries are available too, like cheese toast and pizza toast.
Address:
Japan, 600-8487 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Tachibanacho
Koe Doughnuts
A mouth-watering selection of artisanal donuts await at Koe Donuts. Classic and unique flavours are available, ranging from white chocolate and green tea to red shiso and sesame. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, go for the donut melt strawberry, a creation that presents rich strawberry and peach mascarpone cream between a soft donut. It’s dotted with picked cherry blossoms and finished with peach cream and milk syrup.
Address:
Japan, 604-8042 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Nakanocho, +81 75-748-1162
Weekenders Coffee Tominokoji
Coffee afficionados can revel in Weekenders’s selection of aromatic brews. Hidden behind a parking lot, this speciality coffee concept by Masahiro Kaneko offers a wide selection of beans, all roasted in-house. An array of beans are also available to choose from, including the floral and citrusy Rwanda; fruity Kenya; and creamy Colombia.
Address:
Japan, 604-8064 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Honeyanocho, +81 75-746-2206