Accommodation
Ryokan Yamazaki
Erik OBrienA hidden gem, Ryokan Yamazaki is worth the 30 minute bus ride from central Kyoto. Tranquil surroundings, hearty food and family treatment will start & end your day right.
The Kosanji Temple, one of the most secluded UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kyoto, is located in the middle of a dense mountain forest. The temple, which belongs to the sect of Shingon Buddhism, offers a wonderful view over the valley of the Kiyotaki River from the temple complex.
For anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Kozanji Temple is a perfect half-day trip from Kyoto.
One of the special highlights of the temple are the "" painted scrolls of the frolicking animals, which are often referred to as the "" First Manga "". The identity of the artist, of the picture, which was probably created in the 12th century, is unknown. It is believed to be the monk Toba Sojo.
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Often regarded as the ‘First Manga', these painted scrolls are called the “Scrolls of Frolicking Animals”. Drawn sometime during the 12th century, the identity of the artist is unknown but speculated to be the monk Toba Sojo. The painted scrolls depict a satirical story mocking the daily lives of priests, likening them to animals. The original scrolls are displayed at the Tokyo National Museum, but you can view a replica at the Sekisui-in hall at Kozanji.
The last remaining original structure in Kozanji, Sekisui-in was rightfully designated as a 'National Treasure'. It is one of the last remaining Kamakura-period buildings in all of Japan, most of them having perished to fires or other forms of man-made destruction over the years. Sekisui-in used to serve as a residence for an imperial family member who moved to the temple. In autumn, visitors flock to Kozanji to experience the million-dollar view from within Sekisui-in.
Take the JR Bus Takao/ Keihoku Route to Toganoo from JR Kyoto Station. 15-minute walk from City Bus Stop Takao from Sijo Station on the Karasuma Subway Line
A hidden gem, Ryokan Yamazaki is worth the 30 minute bus ride from central Kyoto. Tranquil surroundings, hearty food and family treatment will start & end your day right.
Tokyu Harvest Club Kyoto Takagamine & Viala is a gorgeous hotel inside the historical Shozan Resort Kyoto.
While the allure of Kyoto often lies in its historic temples and bustling Gion streets, the true essence of the ancient capital is found in its quietest corners. Nestled deep in the rolling foothills of the Takagamine mountains, ROKU KYOTO, LXR Hotels & Resorts offers a different kind of luxury: total seclusion. [photo id='245658'] As the first LXR property in the Asia-Pacific region under the Hilton brand, ROKU KYOTO is designed as an intimate retreat. The resort sits along the Tenjin River, a location that was once an artist's colony, and today serves as a sanctuary where nature, art, and French culinary techniques converge. A Modern Aesthetic Rooted in Tradition [photo id='245654'] From the moment of arrival, the "Dive into Kyoto" concept is palpable. The architecture is a modern interpretation of traditional Japanese aesthetics, utilizing the breathtaking panorama of the mountains as a borrowed landscape. The guest rooms are designed to maximize this connection to nature. For the ultimate indulgence, the Onsen Garden Rooms feature their own private hot spring baths overlooking a private garden, while the Poolside Terrace Rooms offer direct access to the resort’s water features. Culinary Artistry at TENJIN [photo id='245665'] Dining at ROKU KYOTO is anchored by TENJIN, a venue split into three distinct zones: the Chef's Table, All-Day Dining, and The Bar. For the gourmand, Tenjin Chef’s Table is the highlight. Here, the culinary team presents an unconventional take on French cuisine, exploring themes of nature and art using the finest locally sourced seasonal ingredients. It is a sensory experience that requires reservations a day in advance, ensuring an exclusive atmosphere. TENJIN All-Day Dining: This space serves as the heart of the resort's culinary offerings, open daily from 7 am – 10 pm. Whether joining for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, guests can enjoy locally sourced ingredients blended with contemporary French influences. The menu offers both sophisticated set courses and flexible à la carte seasonal favorites, as well as light bites throughout the day. [photo id='245653'] For a more relaxed evening, Tenjin The Bar offers a luxurious vibe with views of the reflecting water basin—the perfect spot to enjoy signature cocktails made from natural ingredients or rare Japanese liquors. Wellness: The Thermal Pool [photo id='245651'] Perhaps the resort's most unique feature is the ROKU SPA and its outdoor thermal pool. This is the only outdoor natural onsen pool within Kyoto City, which remains open year-round. Drawing natural hot spring water from the adjacent grounds, the pool allows guests to soak up the Takagamine atmosphere in silence. The spa menu is equally impressive, based on the concept of "Kyoto Elements," with treatments like the Signature Tenjingawa Stone Massage, which utilizes warm stones soaked in the river waters to channel the energy of the land. Immersive Cultural Experiences [photo id='245659'] For guests looking to connect deeper with local heritage, the concierge can arrange exclusive activities. You can try your hand at Washi paper making with a paper artist, or learn the art of Kintsugi (gold repair) from a master. There is even a Handicraft Porcelain Making workshop that uses soil from the ROKU KYOTO estate itself. A Family-Friendly Haven While ROKU KYOTO exudes a sophisticated, adult-oriented atmosphere, my recent stay proved that it is surprisingly welcoming to families. Traveling with my wife and baby, we were apprehensive about bringing a little one to such a high-end property, but the team put us at ease immediately. The hotel is fully equipped for young families, offering cribs and creating a comfortable environment within the spacious rooms. We were able to enjoy the luxury of the location without feeling out of place. [photo id='245648'] For those with older children, the thermal pool is accessible during specific daytime hours (9:00 am – 6:00 pm) with supervision, allowing the whole family to enjoy the onsen experience. The resort even offers a "Treasure Hunt," where kids can explore the grounds to find hidden items using a secret map—a thoughtful touch that turns the resort into an adventure. The Verdict Whether you are seeking a romantic culinary journey, a solo wellness retreat, or a luxurious family getaway, ROKU KYOTO manages to be all things at once without compromising its identity. It is a rare gem where the silence of the mountains speaks louder than the city below. [photo id='245656']
This new restaurant is easily accessible by foot from Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Arashiyama Station, and Saga-Arashiyama Station, making it an ideal spot to try authentic Japanese gyukatsu. Elevate your already unforgettable trip with an equally memorable meal.
Kohaku-do is a casual French restaurant in Kyoto, Arashiyama. It is situated just a few minutes from Tenryu-ji Temple. And other train stations such as JR Saga-Arashiyama, Arashiyama Station on the Keifuku Dentetsu Line and Hankyu Line are all within a few minutes walk. The price range for the lunch sets is 2000-3000 yen, including hors d’oeuvre, soup, bread, a main dish, desert and a drink-bar. We ordered grilled whitefish and a hamburg steak. Both of the main dishes were quite good!
Sagano-yu is an unusual cafe in the popular Arashiyama area in Kyoto. Formerly a public sento, or bathhouse, the whole building has been converted into a modern cafe while maintaining the highlights of the former bathhouse. Tile art, mirrors and faucets are abundant, giving rise to a feeling of nostalgia. The menu is diverse with the specialty being pancakes and desserts, and lunch sets include light salads and a daily pasta or curry rice. Japanese snacks including flavored rusks and crackers are for sale, too. In addition, artisanal home decorations (zakka) are displayed in the gallery upstairs. Sagano-yu is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and the nearest stations within walking distance are JR Saga Arashiyama station and the Keifuku Electric Railway Randen Saga station.
Daikaku-ji is a Shingon Buddhist temple in Ukyō-ku, a western ward in the city of Kyoto, Japan. The site was originally a residence of Emperor Saga, and later various emperor conducted their cloistered rule from here. The Saga Go-ryū school of ikebana has its headquarters in the temple. [Wikipedia]
Adashino Nenbutsu-ji is a Buddhist temple in Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan. In 811 Kūkai is said to have founded a temple, then Honen altered it to the present Nenbutsuji. [Wikipedia]
Gioji Temple (祇王寺) is a secluded Buddhist temple known for its picturesque moss garden.