6 Alternative Experiences for Your Next Trip to Kyoto
Beyond Kyoto’s well-trodden tourist trail lies a city filled with local curiosities, artisans and experiences found nowhere else on earth. Leave the crowded temples behind and dive into ancient rituals such as tea ceremonies, or swap souvenirs for a piece of authentic local craftsmanship. There’s a modern side to the city, too, including a wide range of design hotels on offer, and contemporary design retailers producing modern takes on traditional Japanese footwear and ceramics. Kyoto’s rich history has given rise to a myriad of unique experiences that will make exploring the city that much more memorable; here are a few not to be missed when visiting Japan’s ancient capital.
Experience Art and Nature at The Garden of Fine Arts Kyoto
Sakyo Ward | Architecture
The Garden of Fine Arts is a unique museum designed by Tadao Ando in 1994, which features near-life-sized reproductions of famous masterpieces on porcelain panels. The garden combines traditional Japanese architecture with light, water and contemporary materials like glass and concrete.
Pro Tip : The Garden of Fine Arts is joined with Kyoto’s Botanical Gardens, so you can easily visit both in one day.
Try Fresh Green Tea at Wazuka Tea Farm
Wazuka | Tea
Renowned for its exceptional green tea production, Wazuka boasts an impressive 800- year history of crafting high-quality Uji tea. Take a day trip to Wazuka to see its picturesque tea fields and partake in various tea experiences, including tea cuisine and matcha art. Recognised as the ‘hometown of green tea,’ Wazuka is the origin of Ujicha, a prized green tea variety, and is designated as one of Japan’s most beautiful villages.
Pro Tip : You can try a range of tea-based activities in Wazuka, from trying tea-infused beer to doing a matcha foam art class.
Related Post: 6 Design Hotels for Your Next Trip to Kyoto
Shop for Zouri Sandals at Hakimono Sekizuka
Iwakura | Shopping
Japan’s artisans are known as ‘Shokunin’, one of whom is Shinji Sekizuka, a skilled designer and craftsman specializing in traditional Japanese footwear and zouri sandals, which operates under the moniker Hakimono Sekizuka. In his converted workshop and showroom, he meticulously handcrafts each custom piece and is one of the leading artisans of Japanese footwear.
Pro Tip : Iwakura, where the workshop is located, is around 25 minutes by car from central Kyoto – you can also catch a train or bus.
Take Part in a Traditional Tea Ceremony
Higashiyama | Culture
Discover the meticulous preparation of matcha (powdered green tea) and the delicate movements that accompany the serving of tea. Traditional tea ceremonies can be experienced within Kyoto’s iconic temples like Kenninji, cultural centres such as Camellia Tea Ceremony, and specialised tea ceremony experiences offered in districts like Higashiyama.
Pro Tip: Check with your hotel, as many locations can connect you with private tea ceremony experiences.
Learn the Art of the Kimono at a Yuzen Dyeing Workshop
Nakagyo | Crafts
Using only the highest quality textiles local artisan, Kitamoto Sengei, will guide you through the process of yuzen dying using a process called surihikita. The surihikita technique has been used in Japan since the Edo period and involves using a bespoke mould to painting dye directly onto cloth. Elaborate patterns and combinations can be used to create unique designs for kimonos, folding fans and Japanese textiles.
Pro Tip : Make sure you allow for plenty of time out of your day for a Kyo Yuzen workshop, as you will want to spend time practicing your skills to get the perfect result.
Discover more unique experiences across Kyoto in my brand new eguide series, 50 Things to Do in Kyoto.
Shop the Work of Master Craftspeople at POJ Studio
Higashiyama Ward | Shopping
POJ Studio, situated in a converted traditional Japanese townhouse just a short distance from the renowned Kiyomizu-dera temple, offers a curated collection of 6 Alternative Experiences for Your Next Trip to Kyoto 3 Japanese handicrafts, ranging from hinoki wood tableware to distinctive tie-dye indigo wall hangings.
Pro Tip : Buy DIY souvenirs such as kintsugi kits, which allow you to mend broken pots with gold lacquer and paper lantern kits.
Tips & Tricks for a Visit to Kyoto
1. Choose Your Seasons — Kyoto is especially beautiful during spring and autumn, but beware the crowds.
2. Wake up Early — Kyoto is getting busier by the day so be sure to wake up early to avoid the tourists.
3. Go Beyond the Tourist Trail — Seek out smaller temples, quiet streets and hidden cafes.
4. Take a Hike — The city has many hiking trails, including The Kyoto Isshu Trail.
5. Spend Time Doing Nothing — Visit a day spa, traditional ryokan or hot spring in a nearby onsen town.
6. Experience the Culture — Many temples offer private meditations and tea ceremonies, just make sure to research and book ahead.
7. Get Crafty — Kyoto is home to many artisanal workshops including kimono dyeing and ceramic artists.
8. Think Modern — Many don’t realise how contemporary Kyoto is, with many innovative design spaces across the city.
9. Respect the Etiquette — Remember that Kyoto is a place where locals live their daily lives, not a theme park.
10. Rent Bikes — The best way to see Kyoto is often on two wheels. It is quick and allows you to see the city at your own pace
Looking for a More Meaningful Way to Experience Japan?
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