Kyoto Prefecture

Modern development has certainly changed the city’s appearance, but some districts have remained just as they were a century or more ago. Among them are the geisha quarters of Gion and Pontocho. A geisha is an artist who entertains guests through dance and song, conducts tea ceremonies, and engages in elegant conversation. They wear kimono along with traditional makeup and hairstyles. Since April 2024, it has been impossible to visit Gion, as local authorities have banned entry to the district due to the overwhelming number of tourists disrupting residents’ daily lives. Gion is the most famous of the five hanamachi (neighborhoods where geisha live): Kamishichiken, Bontocho, Miyagawacho, Gion Kobu, and Gion Higashi. The area is filled with old ochaya (teahouses — the most famous being Ichiriki Ochaya, with traditional architecture and a 300-year history); ryotei (traditional restaurants hosting evening performances); modern restaurants offering world cuisines; and machiya (traditional townhouses).

% Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama is a popular specialty coffee shop located in the historic Higashiyama district near Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The cafe is renowned for its signature Kyoto Latte, which many visitors describe as exceptional with perfect balance of espresso and milk. The minimalist interior features limited seating with one large communal table accommodating about 8-10 people. While the coffee quality receives widespread praise, the service experience is highly inconsistent with numerous reports of rude and dismissive staff behavior toward both foreign and Japanese customers. The location attracts heavy tourist traffic, resulting in frequent queues that can extend wait times to 25 minutes during peak hours. Prices range from ¥500-650 for coffee beverages, with the signature Kyoto Latte being the most popular order.

Tawaraya Ryokan is one of Kyoto's most prestigious traditional inns, founded over 300 years ago and counted among the city's three great ryokans. Located in the heart of Kyoto near Kawaramachi Station, this 18-room establishment offers an authentic Japanese cultural experience with meticulously maintained gardens, traditional architecture, and world-renowned hospitality. Guests consistently praise the exceptional service, with dedicated room attendants providing personalized attention throughout their stay. The ryokan serves exquisite kaiseki cuisine featuring seasonal ingredients, though some recent reviews note inconsistencies in meal quality. While the experience comes at a premium price point (suites can exceed ¥343,000 per night), most visitors describe it as a transformative cultural immersion. The ryokan's traditional atmosphere, attention to detail, and historical significance make it a bucket-list destination for those seeking authentic Japanese hospitality.

Nidec Kyoto Tower is a 131-meter tall observation tower located directly opposite JR Kyoto Station, offering 360-degree panoramic views of Kyoto from its 100-meter high observation deck. The tower features a unique monocoque structure and serves as a modern landmark in the historic city. Visitors praise the beautiful night views, convenient location, and reasonable admission price of ¥900 for adults. The complex includes the Kyoto Tower SANDO shopping area, restaurants, and a hotel, making it a multi-functional tourist destination. While the observation deck is smaller than those in other major cities, it provides excellent views of Kyoto's grid-like cityscape and surrounding mountains. The tower is particularly recommended for sunset and night visits when the city lights create a spectacular panorama.

% Arabica Kyoto Arashiyama is a highly popular coffee shop located in the scenic Arashiyama district, famous for its beautiful river views and the signature Kyoto Latte made with local matcha and condensed milk. The cafe attracts international tourists who queue for 30-60 minutes to experience the coffee in this picturesque setting. While the coffee quality is generally praised as excellent and the staff are professional, the long wait times, crowded conditions, and lack of seating are significant drawbacks. The location offers stunning views of the Katsura River and Togetsukyo Bridge, making it a memorable experience for those with patience. However, some visitors find the wait excessive for the coffee quality, noting it may be overhyped.

% ARABICA Kyoto Fujii Daimaru is a premium specialty coffee shop located on the first floor of Fujii Daimaru department store in Kyoto's Shijo-Kawaramachi district. This location is part of the internationally renowned % ARABICA chain, founded by Kyoto-based trading company Asiamix, which operates in 17 countries worldwide. The cafe is celebrated for its exceptional Kyoto Latte (made with condensed milk), rich espresso, and professional baristas using top-tier Slayer Espresso machines. While the space is compact with limited seating, it offers a convenient upscale coffee experience for shoppers and tourists. The location typically has shorter queues compared to the popular Arashiyama branch, making it a more accessible option for experiencing % ARABICA's acclaimed coffee.