Experience Culture
From traditional craftsmanship to contemplative sutra copying at renowned temples and authentic tea ceremonies, we guide you through Kyoto's most meaningful encounters. Touch the sublime beauty of Kyoto, creating memories that linger.
Depending on availability at each participating shop, same-day participation may not be possible. Please feel free to ask the front desk.
Craft your own Shibori items
Experience shibori, Japan's timeless tie-dye artistry, and create a unique memento to treasure. Discover how thread tension and fabric folding techniques yield distinctive patterns in your own hands. At this concept shop—opened in 2023 by a century-old atelier—choose from curated courses to craft various shibori pieces, each reflecting your personal touch.
[Access]
Shibori Concept Shop ANDO Kyoto｜327 Kashiwaya-cho, Yanaginobanba-dori Gojo Agaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto
1.1km from the hotel, 15-minute walk
Contemplative Sutra Copying at a Tranquil Zen Temple
Shakyo, the contemplative practice of transcribing Buddhist sutras, quiets the mind, releases worldly attachments, and cultivates inner clarity. At Tsugen-in, a sub-temple within Japan's largest Zen complex Myoshin-ji, immerse yourself in unhurried tranquility as you mindfully inscribe each character. Conclude your practice with matcha and traditional sweets in serene reflection.
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Daihonzan Myoshin-ji Tacchu Tsugen-in｜38 Hanazono Myoshin-ji-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto
Approximately 25 minutes by city bus from the nearest stop to the hotel. 7-minute walk from Myoshin-ji-mae bus stop.
Experience the artistry of Kyo-Karakami
Experience the world of "Kyo-Karakami," a traditional Kyoto craft used for Fusuma / sliding door paper and wallpaper. In the "Karakami Printing Experience and Workshop Tour," you will print your own Karakami using woodblocks that have been passed down for over 100 years, and tour the workshop where artisans print large sheets of paper. The Karakami you print during the experience can be taken home as a souvenir. Various other courses are also available, including making Karakami goshuin-cho (temple stamp book) and panel.
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Karamaru｜460 Sensho-ji-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto
800m from the hotel, 11-minute walk
Tea Ceremony Experience at Muryoan Tea House
On the fourth floor of Fukujuen Kyoto Honten, facing bustling Shijo-dori, discover "Muryoan"—a tea room sanctuary that feels worlds away. Experience the art of tea ceremony as you observe your teacher's refined preparation while savoring matcha and traditional sweets, then prepare your own bowl of matcha under expert guidance. Thoughtful instruction makes authentic tea ceremony accessible and engaging for all.
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Fukujuen Kyoto Honten "4F Kyo no Chaan"
450m from the hotel, 7-minute walk
