The hotel consists of an entire alley of renovated old machiyas, which were originally built over 110 years ago. This private escape offers a quaint atmosphere, that is reminiscent of the old geisha neighborhoods. Beautiful wooden facades accompanied with moody lantern lights – and the feel of time standing still. Nostalgia, privacy, and calm at its best.

Going into Tsubaki Street feels like stepping into a movie, a small nostalgic universe in one alley – truly inviting guests to stay and be absorbed in it.

Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St. – Through the Elements

The rooms, accommodating 2-3 guests, come in five different themes. “Take” (bamboo), “Mizu” (water), “Iwa” (stone), “Hana” (flower), and “Ha” (leaf). All are individual and uniquely follow the themes to the very last detail. From the overall décor to art pieces and glassware a little escape into beautifully designed representations of each theme. So if you are a fan of a more natural and earthy feel, ask for the beautiful bamboo room. But if you feel most at home on a cliff overlooking the sea, the Iwa or Mizu room might be what you are looking for.

The stay provides the best of both worlds – feel of 100 years of history but a modern take on comfortability and amenities. Western-style beds will ensure a good night’s sleep even for anyone more unacquainted with the tatami & futon sleeping. A truly luxurious yet homey setting, with the highlight of their signature semi-open-air baths – you really feel like you don’t want to leave.

Attention to Detail

Nazuna Tsubaki St. takes pride in highlighting craftsmanship and design and is currently hosting a pop-up exhibition “Find My Favorite Japan: Curated Japanese Design”, on until May 9th. Joint showcase of different Japanese artists with another clever take on mixing of traditional and modern. New ideas showcased from all around Japan, such as the Toyama hailing “Re-Bear Project” with the aim to bring back a re-design of the decor traditionally seen in many households in Japan. Beautiful Oita Usuki pottery, presenting another form of craftmanship sadly dwindling away or Mobje brand featuring Hiroshima hatters repurposing their millinery skills to create vases – and many more, all available to purchase. The second part of the exhibition will feature jewelry, hats, and other fashion accessories from brands such as Kitchibe, Fujii Seibo and Yuzen.

Dining at Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St.

The lobby, which also doubles as a lounge offers free drinks and snacks for guests to start the night (from 3 to 9 pm), and Wagyu Ryotei Bungo, the restaurant on the premises, invites guests to indulge in long form. The restaurant focuses on the less-known but high-quality, delicious Oita Wagyu. Showcasing the premium ingredient in different takes from beef sashimi and sushi to shabu shabu, a beef lover’s dream.

As expected from a luxury ryokan, omotenashi plays a crucial role – a favorite detail the delivery of the most luscious egg sandwich right to your door for a late-night bite. In fact, the food is so good one might just want to stay within the walls of Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki, which of course would be a shame as Kyoto has so much to offer.

Best of Both Worlds 

Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St. keeps you safely away from the tourist masses, but still within a stone’s throw of all the main sights and shops. Offering the best of both worlds, this stay is not for someone looking for the old-school ryokan experience – but perfect for someone who wants the traditional Kyoto magic with a luxury touch and modern comforts.

Whether you are taking reprise in between your Kyoto exploration or opt to be cocooned on Tsubaki street your whole stay – you will find an oasis of quiet luxury and atmosphere to keep you mesmerized throughout your stay.

Web

Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki Street

Address

838 Bomoncho, Omiya Nishiiru, Takatsuji-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto city

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It is one of the most popular places to come to in spring, so make sure to plan ahead as this is the busiest time of the year, high high season!

It is good to know, that cherry blossoms usually bloom around late March/ early April in Kyoto, a little bit earlier than in Tokyo. And it can be tricky to find the right timing to see them in full bloom. So make sure to check the cherry blossom forecasts, which are released sometimes as early as January. Furthermore, as we are dealing with mother nature, you can never be 100% sure, so it is generally best to time your visit in the middle of the forecasted dates if you can. Or earlier, as you will already get to see the plum blossoms starting in February.

Once you are in Kyoto, there are plenty of places to see them. There are famous cherry blossom spots throughout Kyoto, including Maruyama Park and of course, trees popping up between temples and shrines creating that perfect picture moment. Just imagine any of the many World Heritage Sites in Kyoto surrounded by pink clouds, it’s truly magical.

So if you get a chance to visit, these are the best places, our top 12 spots to view the cherry blossoms in Kyoto.

1.Hirano Shrine

Hirano Shrine is where sakura season starts here in Kyoto. Every city has one tree that sets the tone and this one is it. Showcases about 60 cherry blossom varieties blooming at different times so the flowers can be enjoyed for about one month and a half.

There are also special sakura illuminations held during this time of the year as well as the Okasai Festival on April 10th. A stunning festival including a historical procession of Mikoshi and Orihime costumes. For event details check the official homepage.

• Opening hours: 6 am – 5 pm. With illuminations from 6 pm to 9 pm. (mid-March – mid-April)
• Address: Kyoto, Kita, Hirano Miyamotocho 1 
• Website: http://www.hiranojinja.com/

2.Kyoto Botanical Gardens

The Kyoto Botanical Gardens are a great place to see the cherry blossoms in Kyoto, with its small cherry blossom forest featuring 130 different varieties. And of course, feature plenty of other plants and exhibits to see.

They also have special spring illuminations, with their opening time extended until 9 pm.

• Opening hours: 9 am – 5 pm. With illuminations special opening times until 9 pm. (mid-March – mid-April)
• Admission Fee: Garden entry: Adults 200 ¥, high school students 150 ¥. Conservatory entry: Adults 200 ¥, high school students 150 ¥
• Address: Kyoto, Sakyo, Shimogamo, Hangi
• Website: http://www.pref.kyoto.jp/en/02-02-10.html

3.Toji Temple

Kyo-o-gokokuji Temple, how it is officially called, but better known as Toji Temple is home to Japan’s tallest wooden pagoda. Making it one of Kyotos many registered World Heritage Sites and the perfect cherry blossom backdrop.

It is a must-visit for its five-storied pagoda but also for its mirror lake. Combined with the Cherry blossoms this is the epitome of traditional Japanese essence. Especially during the evening illuminations held in spring.

• Opening hours: 8 am – 5 pm. With illuminations from 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm (mid-March – mid-April)
• Admission Fee: Admission for adults is 500 ¥, high school students 400 ¥, and for junior high school students and younger 300 ¥. Illuminations admission is 500 ¥ for adults and high school students and 300 ¥ for junior high school students and younger.
• Address: 1 Kujocho, Minami Ward, Kyoto
• Website: http://www.toji.or.jp/

4.Maruyama Park

Maruyama Park is Kyotos best-kept secret. Loved by locals, it is home to about 680 cherry blossom trees. It features a small river, lakes, and a few terrace-style cafes.

There are some special events during this time of the year, including the spring illuminated from mid-March to mid-April open until midnight. And normally has Food stalls set up around the park, although this year there will be none due to the Corona Virus.

• Opening Hours: Always, but with illuminations until midnight
• Address: Kyoto, Higashiyama, Maruyama Park
• Website: https://kyoto-maruyama-park.jp/

5.Heian Jingu Shrine

The Heian Jingu Shrine is particularly impressive with its garden featuring vermillion pillars creating a green or during cherry blossom season a pink roof. The perfect place to admire the sakura and get some unique photographs.

• Opening hours: 6 am – 5.30 pm
• Admission Fee: Entrance to the shrine is free, however, if you like to enter the garden admission is 600 ¥
• Address: Okazaki Nishitennocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto
• Official Website: http://www.heianjingu.or.jp/

6.Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle, another one of Kyoto’s must-visit World Heritage Sites, providing the perfect background for any history buff. Visit the Japanese gardens and enjoy the cherry blossom surrounding this historical structure in the heart of Kyoto

Every year the Nijo Castle Cherry Blossom Festival takes place in late March to mid-April featuring beautiful illuminations from 6 pm to 9.30 pm.

• Opening hours: 8:45 am – 4 pm. Illuminations are from 6 pm – 9.30 pm
• Admission Fee: Adults 620 ¥, junior and high school students 350 ¥, elementary school students 200 ¥. Nightime admission has to be paid separately.
• Address: 541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto
• Official Website: https://www2.city.kyoto.lg.jp/bunshi/nijojo/english/index.html

7.Kodaiji Temple

Kodaiji Temple located in Higashiyama features a stunning Japanese garden that many are unaware of. Featuring a mirror lake and a rock garden combined with the cherry blossoms you will feel like you are in a movie.

The temple is also well known by locals for its illuminations and projection mapping, extending its opening times to 10 pm both in spring and in autumn.

• Opening hours: 9 am – 10 pm (between March and early April)
• Admission Fee: Adults 600 ¥, junior high and high school students 250 ¥
• Address: 526 Shimokawaracho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
• Website: https://www.kodaiji.com/

8.Philosopher’s Walk

The Philosopher’s Walk, a beautiful path loved by literary scholars is also famous for its cherry blossom and autumn foliage.

Stretching for about two kilometers alongside the canal, the 500 Yoshino cherry trees create a stunning cherry blossom tunnel. It also connects the Heian Jingu Shrine with Higashiyama Jisho-ji, both worth visiting.

• Address: Kyoto, Kyoto, Sakyo, Jodoji Ishibashi Google Map
• Website: https://kyoto.travel/en/thingstodo/entertainment/111

9.Umekoji Park

Only known to locals, this park is especially great for families as it has a massive playground. It is also close to the rail museum, the Kyoto aquarium and it is one of the best places in Kyoto to have a Hanami picnic during cherry blossom season.

• Address: ５６-3 Kankijicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8835
• Website: http://www.kyoto-ga.jp/umekouji/

10.Takase River

The Takase River or canal flows along the entire Kiyamachi Street (about 2km) and it is lined with cherry blossom trees on both sides. So make sure to walk along, stop for a coffee or visit one of the many shops and restaurants that are surrounding it.

There are special illuminations from 6 pm – 10 pm in late March to early April. So if you re in town make sure to go for a stroll at night.

• Opening Hours: Always, but with illuminations from 6 pm – 10 pm
• Address: Takase River (Kiyomisu-gojo Station)
• Website: https://kanko.city.kyoto.lg.jp/detail.php?InforKindCode=4&ManageCode=7000044

11.Kamo River

The Kamo River, which flows through the heart of Kyoto is a popular spot to rest, meet, and of course gaze at the cheery blossoms during spring. Beautiful to take a walk and look at the cherry blossom trees framing the river, or if you have time, there is ample space to bring a pick-nick or a drink and enjoy Japans favourite spring past time: hanami!

Alternatively, pop into one of the many restaurant terraces, but you may need a reservation so plan ahead.

• Address: Kamo river (Sanjo station)
• Website: https://www.pref.kyoto.jp/kamogawa/1205475129577.html

12. Arashiyama

Arashiyama is the perfect half-day/ day trip from Kyoto and a great place to visit during the sakura season. The best spot to see the cherry blossoms is near “Togetsu-kyo Bridge” along the Katsuragawa River. With the nearby mountain range turning pink it is a spectacular sight.

The riverbanks are also a great spot to go for a walk at nighttime as they are beautifully illuminated during spring.

• Address: １7, Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto
• Website: http://www.kyoto-kankou.or.jp/info_search/?id=289&r=1549515705.7615

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Many of them sold from street vendors, some more hidden away as it is so often the case in Japan. With Shogoin Yatsuhashi being no exception.

So as you get closer to Kiyomizudera you will inevitably pass by Shogoin Yatsuhashi. Or if you know better, you won’t. You will head to the back of the store, where the little hidden Tea house is located. The perfect stop for a quick break before continuing heading up to the Temple.

And this really is a well-kept secret, a hidden away tea house, including a beautiful terrace overlooking the surrounding rooftops and gardens.

A little oasis away from the bustling street out the front. Almost invisible, especially if the streets are busy with tourists, which they almost always are. So easy to be missed.

So once you are here, make sure you head to the back of the shop and find yourself a seat.

The menu is pretty straight forward, with only a few options. Matcha hot and matcha cold, with a duo of traditional sweets on the side. Coffee, tea, and juice.

I recommend ordering the match set for 650Yen, including the duo of wagashi, a traditional Japanese sweet. Here they come in a triangular shape and two variations. A white one, filled with red bean paste and a hint of cinnamon, and a black one, filled with black sesame seed paste. Both utterly delicious and the perfect combination with your matcha.

It is also a great alternative to get an authentic matcha tea, without the lengthy tea ceremony.

Although attending one is a beautiful experience. Depending on your time and interest you may opt for this instead. Giving you the taste without the time commitment and with the beautiful view, it would be a shame not to have a little break at Shogoin Yatsuhashi.

So whether you love matcha or just want to give it a little try, this is one place to visit and enjoy!

Web

http://www.shogoin.co.jp/

Address

2 Chome-218 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862

Opening Hours

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And no, this is not a tea ceremony, it is a place where tea is loved and you will get a chance to drink some of Japan’s best teas and learn more about them. As the passionate owner happily explains about the tea, the history and generally likes sharing stories about life in Kyoto and Japan.

Choose from a variety of green teas but also flavored ones (my recommendation is the Marron flavor) and if you feel peckish make sure to try one of the seasonal moon cakes. The perfect match and just delicious.

And then the entertainment begins, as your tea arrives on a beautiful tablet including a clock. A fun experience, as you will stop-watch your tea soaking time with the provided timmer. With every tea having its particular time you’ll also learn not to waste any drop as you prepare your tea. 

You will get to sip around 3 perfect cups from one pot of tea, with plenty of time to enjoy this beautiful modern tea house in Kyoto. Just the perfect spot in the very heart of Kyoto to take a break and letting time be.

So make sure you stop by if you are in Gion, as this is one well-kept Kyoto secret.

Web

https://www.mandaracha.com/

Address 

Kyoto-shi Higashiyama-ku Yamashirocho 278-1

Opening hours

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Located near Fushimi Inari’s red gates, in the south of Kyoto, this well-hidden oasis is one cafe you should definitely add to your list if you are in the area. Overviewing a pond, it oozes tranquility and is just the perfect place to rest and recharge.

The Food at Vermillion Cafe

The menu is great with a few brunch options available as well as vegan dishes and sweet options. All fairly priced, especially for its location and breathtaking view.

Take a seat on their rustic terrace and let your mind wander as you wait for your food to arrive. I ordered avocado on toast with extra bacon and a latte for 1500¥. It looked stunning, almost to pretty to eat. It also smelled delicious and cutting into the perfectly poached egg I knew I was in for a treat…

If eggs are not your thing, try the Moroccan inspired chicken over rice for 900¥, with harissa and yogurt sauce it took me on a little journey. A little escape on a plate. Absolutely delicious.

So if you get to visit Kyoto and it’s famous red gates at Fushimi Inari, make sure to visit Vermillion Cafe. A lovely restaurant with a view and without a doubt my favorite brunch spot in all of Kyoto!

Web

https://www.vermillioncafe.com/

Address

5-31 Fukakusa Kaidoguchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0805

Opening Hours

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With Kyoto having somewhere around 3,000 temples, they certainly come in all shapes and sizes with each having their own personality. With this one really dipping itself into all the colors of the rainbow, it is undoubtedly bolder and louder than what you expect from a spiritual place. And this is precisely why it is so loved by many…

Yasaka Koshindo Temple – 八坂庚申堂

Often just referred to as “Kongo-ji”, Daikoku-san Kongo-ji Koshin-do (大黒山金剛寺庚申堂) is a very small temple located in the Higashiyama district in the very center of traditional Kyoto.

As you walk towards the famous Yasaka Pagoda, you may almost miss it, if it was not for the clusters of people in front of its tiny gate. The temple is best-known for its monkeys. Which are dedicated to the Shomen Kongo and it is said that they have the ability to relieve people from pain and illnesses.

Kukurizaru – Let’s Make a Wish

As it is often custom to make a wish or prayer by writing it down on an “Ema”, a small plaque of wood, this temple is slightly different. And if you have not yet guessed, yes, the tiny colorful balls are what you write your wish on!

The “Kukurizaru” (くくり猿), which means “bound monkeys” are the equivalent of the above mentioned Ema. And with a lot of imagination you can see the resemblance, as the little stuffed monkeys are haging from the branches and beams.

So as you transfer your worldly wishes onto the Kukurizaru, the monkey will then do its best to help it come true. So why not add your own?

One More Picture Please

So make sure your camera is charged and you got plenty of space on your phone because this is any photographer’s dream come true!

It is almost impossible not to get a great photo. Only bring some time, as Yasaka Koshindo Temple is extremely popular, especially with Kimono wearing visitors and you can see why. As the colors just pop and the traditional fabrics blend in with the background, this is one Kyoto picture you do not want to miss. My tip is, if you do consider renting a Kimono in Kyoto, this should be on your list to visit.

So make sure to bookmarkt his for your Kyoto visit, as it is one mus-see place and with its amazing location there is really no excuse…

Some Last Facts

How to get here?

Located on the way to Kyomizu-dera it is about a 20min walk from both, Gion Shijio Station or Kyomisu Gojo Station on the Keihan Main Line. Or you can take the bus (No.206) from Kyoto station to Shimizudo and from there it is 7 min on foot.

It is open from 9 am to 7 pm and really worth visiting any time of the day.

How much time to spend?

You can just visit this on the way to Yasaka Pagoda and Kyomizu-dera. Pop in for a quick picture or stay for some time it is really up to you. If you walk through, it takes as little as 10min.

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Located in a small shotengai, a local shopping street close to Yasaka Shrine in Higashiyama, the traditional district of Kyoto, you will find this small Ramen Restaurant, known especially for its authentic Miso Ramen. 

It is a small shop, bright, clean, and they have installed plexiglass dividers between seats to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Something I have not often seen in ramen shops often yet. Also, the staff is lovely and ready to help you to find the right buttons on the ticket selling machine. They also have an English menu, again another plus.

I recommend the spicy miso ramen for 900yen. It’s topped with a thick slice of juicy meat, salad greens, and as a surprise grated ginger. Getting a bite of that on its own might be a bit overpowering, so the secret is to mix it in with the creamy heavy broth little by little. I promise you it takes this already tasty bowl of ramen to a different level. Just the right amount of zing to give it the freshness it needs. This is one ramen you will want to lick the bowl after finishing it.

So if your in the mood for ramen in Kyoto then Gion Shirakawa Ramen is just the place to eat after a long day of exploring! 

Web

https://gion-shirakawa.com/

Opening Hours

Address

567-26 Inaricho Kitagumi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0068

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Located on the second floor inside a hip, sustainable fashion and antique shop near the famous Nishiki Market, it is well hidden. Its spacious layout is rather unexpected. With plenty of seating options and a window front overlooking a wild-garden-like balcony, it feels airy, modern, and chic.

Dishes start from 1000¥, with their most popular plates coming in at 1500¥ including the aforementioned meatless burger.  Which I ordered and loved. It comes with brown rice, salads, and a few seasonal side dishes as well as miso soup. The perfect dish to make you feel nourished and if you got some space left in your tummy, they have delicious dessert options too!

They are also family-friendly, with fun kids dishes around 700¥. So whether you come here by yourself, with a date or your loved ones, Mumokuteki is the perfect place to sit, relax, and eat some healthy food in the Center of Kyoto!

Web

https://mumokuteki.com/cafe

Opening Hours

Address

〒604-8061 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Shikibucho, 261 ヒューマンフォーラム本社ビル 2F

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And no, this is not fancy washoku, Japanese-style breakfast, this is simple bite-sized breakfast. Perfect to get something in your belly before you set off exploring this traditional part of Kyoto. Sets, including a fancy cappuccino, start from 930yen. And just to put that into perspective for you, in a location, where you easily pay 600-800yen just for a coffee, this is amazing value! 

Plus, Keys Cafe’s owner is super friendly, service is quick and the coffee is delicious and comes with a cacao version of Yazaka pagoda stenciled on top. Hello Instagram!

And if that is not enough to persuade you to visit, then listen up as this small cafe also has plugs at most tables for you to easily recharge your phone (just make sure you have a Japanese adapter). And let me tell you, this will come in extremely handy. As the area with its tiny winding streets, traditional shops, and all-around-Japanese-movie-feel, may set you into a photo frenzy for a while…

Web

n/a

Opening hours

Address

388 Kinencho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0828

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Come here for a quick stop between sightseeing, grab a coffee or one of their delicious ice creams. The perfect treat especially on a sunny day!

They have plenty of seats either inside or on their airy terrace. Plus if you are a fan of the kotatsu, the low wooden table covered by a blanket often seen in Anime or Japanese movies, then this is for you, as there is an area full of kotatsu’s for you to enjoy.

A medium-size cafe latte will set you back 550Yen, which is respectively low compared to other coffee places in the area. As this is prime tourist territory many restaurants and cafes are charging 700-900Yen for the same. Making this is a great deal, especially for its location and view.

Definitely, a must-visit if you are sightseeing in Kyoto, perfect to recharge with a delicious cup of coffee while enjoying the fabulous view.

Web

https://en.slowjetcoffee-kodaiji.com/

Opening Hours

Address

〒605-0825 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, 高台寺 下河原町526 高台寺境内

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