Elite Traveler September-October 2016

Kyoto JAPAN

The imperial capital of Japan for more than a millennium, Kyoto today remains home to some 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines. The pace of life in the birthplace of tea ceremonies is far removed from futuristic Tokyo – think Zen gardens and a still-active geisha culture. The city also has a thriving modern art scene. Best for Gastronomy – after Tokyo, Kyoto has the greatest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in the world. Don’t miss Kabouku Tearoom (ippodo-tea.co.jp/en) where you can learn how to brew different types of green tea – there are more than 40 varieties to choose from. Where to stay There are several luxury western hotel chains in Kyoto, but for an authentic taste of Japanese culture, it has to be Hoshinoya. Traditional-style houses cling to a lush mountainside that tumbles down to a river, the property, which is reached by a cedar boat, is a welcome respite from city life, yet just 15 minutes from the urban center. Room to book The minimalist two-story Tsukihashi maisonette provides views of the river and the maple-tree forest, which is ablaze with scarlet and crimson leaves during autumn. Contact Toshiyuki Sakai, manager, info_kyoto@hoshinoya.com, hoshinoyakyoto.jp Price From $770 per night