Quiet Escape: A Zen Getaway in the Heart of Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan’s iconic city, is about to offer a quiet escape in the heart of its zen atmosphere. With its peaceful temples, lush gardens and refined cuisine, this destination is the perfect refuge for those looking to recharge their batteries. Immerse yourself in the harmony of Japanese tradition, where every street corner and park tells the story of a serene Japan. Let yourself be guided by the magic of autumn colours and the sweet scent of precious moments to savour.

Kyoto, Japan’s enduring jewel, reveals itself in a new light with each season, and it is in autumn that it reveals a rare beauty. A zen getaway in this city full of history and traditions is the perfect opportunity to recharge your batteries. Between discovering ancestral temples, exploring peaceful gardens, and tasting authentic flavours, let yourself be carried away by the magic of the place. Follow this guide for a full immersion in the heart of Kyoto.

Delving into Kyoto’s cultural treasures

Let’s start our escape by visiting the historic temples. Kyoto, with its more than 2000 temples, offers a wide choice of places to get lost. The famous temple Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, shines brightly in the middle of its lake. At dawn and dusk, the reflection of its gold in the water creates an enchanting picture. In the same spirit, the Ryoan-ji temple, famous for its stone garden, invites contemplation and meditation, a perfect space to clear your mind. Stroll through soothing Zen gardens Among the myriad gardens that Kyoto has, the garden of the Tenryu-ji temple is a must-see. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this garden marks an encounter between nature, serenity and art. The maple trees with flamboyant foliage in the fall create a breathtaking panorama. A few steps away, the Arashiyama bamboo forest will give you a unique sensory experience, where the gentle rustling of the leaves transports you far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A stay in the heart of well-beingStaying at Six Senses Kyoto enhances the Zen experience. This hotel, with its soothing atmosphere, is located near the

Gion

district, known for its geishas and picturesque alleys. With its rooms inspired by traditional Japanese designs, this establishment allows you to reconnect with the very essence of Japan, thanks to ancestral touches such as Raku-yaki ceramic walls. In addition, its restaurant presents a cuisine that exudes the freshness of local products: flavors intertwine in refined dishes.Taste the local gastronomy Your escape would not be complete without a culinary immersion. The

Giro Giro Hitoshina

restaurant presents 8 creative dishes, dating tradition and modernity. Each dish, prepared by talented chefs, tells a story and presents different textures. For an unparalleled gastronomic experience, the Kikunoi Honten , with its three Michelin stars, takes you on a Kaiseki adventure, a festival of flavors and aesthetic presentation. Watching the chef’s dexterity in full preparation adds to the magic of your dinner. Exploring Japanese ArtsDon’t miss discovering the boutique Utsuwaya Akane , a true temple of Japanese craftsmanship. Here, each piece is carefully selected by Hiroko Kaji, showcasing contemporary creations. From bowls to cups, each item invites contemplation and pays homage to the beauty of Japanese tableware. To further enrich your stay, the Museum of Modern Art,

Momak

, offers an impressive showcase of Japanese artistic treasures, while integrating European masters. A Path to Serenity and Meditation Finally, for those seeking to restore their inner balance, take part in a session of Zen meditationin a Buddhist temple. Places like

Nanzen-ji Temple

offer spiritual retreats, allowing you to refocus in a soothing natural setting. Zen gardens are conducive to letting go, creating a perfect space to reconnect body and mind. Getaway ElementsDescription HotelSix Senses Kyoto, a haven of peace and tradition.

Culinary Experience

Kikunoi Honten Restaurant, traditional Michelin-starred gastronomy. Crafts Utsuwaya Akane, local artisans for unique tableware. Cultural Visits Momak Museum, a must for modern Japanese art.

The

delicately decorated rooms

refined breakfast

, savor bold dishes inspired by seasonal ingredients and let yourself be transported by the culinary magic of chef

Hiroki Shishikura.Explore local crafts at Utsuwaya Akane In Kyoto, craftsmanship holds a place of honor. Don’t miss the charming boutiqueUtsuwaya Akane

, where the owner, Hiroko Kaji, selects exceptional pieces for your table. Each bowl, glass or plate is a work of art, merging tradition and modernity. Stroll, admire the unique creations and treat yourself to an authentic souvenir of your time in Japan. Savour exquisite dishes at the Giro Giro Hitoshina restaurantFor those who yearn for a memorable gastronomic experience, the Giro Giro Hitoshinarestaurant is a must. In this intimate setting, let yourself be seduced by an 8-course menuthat revisits Japanese cuisine with audacity. Each dish invites you to explore new flavors, from crispy lotus flowers to revisited sashimi, in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Marvel at the Kyoto Museum of Modern Art

Treat yourself to a moment of cultural escape at the Kyoto Museum of Modern Art, known asMomak

. Immerse yourself in the world of Japanese art and admire the emblematic works of great masters such as

Seiho Takeuchi or Shoen Uemura . Let yourself be moved by the European pieces that are also exhibited there, where cultural heritage mixes with the international. An enriching interlude in your Japanese adventure. An exceptional dinner at Kikunoi Honten For an unparalleled culinary experience,

Kikunoi Honten

is the destination for epicurean souls. This restaurant, awarded three Michelin stars , offers you a taste journey to the heart of Kaisekicuisine. Each dish is meticulously prepared, immersing you in a gallery of delicate flavors. Imagine savoring exquisite sashimi in a private room, lulled by the ambient harmony, for an unforgettable moment. Recharge your batteries in the middle of the gardens End your day with a quiet stroll in one of Kyoto’s parks, such as the famous Maruyamagarden. Here, the beauty of the cherry blossoms and the calming streams create an atmosphere conducive to contemplation. It is the perfect place to reconnect with yourself, take a break, breathe and appreciate the peace that emanates from this enchanting city.

FAQ – Quiet Escape: A Zen Getaway in the Heart of Kyoto

Q: When is the best time to visit Kyoto? The best time to visit Kyoto is in the fall, when the leaves change color, providing a dazzling natural spectacle. Q: What are the must-see places in Kyoto? Some of the must-see places include theGion area, the many historic temples, and the beautiful Zen gardens.Q: Where to stay during our stay in Kyoto?

The Six Senses Kyoto Hotel is a great option, offering a Zen atmosphere and elegant rooms.

Q: Are there any recommended restaurants in Kyoto? Yes, the Giro Giro Hitoshina restaurant offers a unique dining experience with modernized Japanese dishes, and the Kikunoi Honten is a renowned Michelin-starred restaurant.Q: How do local crafts enrich the Kyoto experience?

Local crafts, such as the creations of the Utsuwaya Akane boutique, are an opportunity to discover Japanese know-how and acquire beautiful tableware.

Q: What types of Zen activities can you do in Kyoto? You can take part in Zen meditation workshops, stroll through the gardens or visit temples for a calming experience.

Q: How do I get to Kyoto from Osaka? You can easily reach Kyoto from Osaka by train, with frequent and fast connections. Q: What is the cultural significance of Kyoto?Kyoto is a major cultural center of Japan, famous for its traditions, crafts and rich historical heritage.