Dusit Thani Kyoto

The traditional Buddhist practice of hand-copying sacred texts is a form of meditation and devotion. Shakyo is a spiritual practice that engages both body and mind. The act of carefully copying each stroke fosters a sense of reverence and humility, reinforcing the understanding that the teachings are worth preserving and passing on. Take the chance to explore this ancient practice and clear your mind as you think of nothing but the shape of each character. Contact us

The juzu bracelet – also known as a Buddhist prayer bracelet or rosary – is used by Buddhists as a tool for counting recitations of mantras or prayers. Making a juzu can be a meaningful and meditative activity and we invite you to participate. String your chosen beads and central charm onto your own unique bracelet to wear when you visit Kyoto’s temples. Contact us

Join us to relax your mind and body in a morning yoga session – the perfect opportunity to set your intentions for the day. This class is suitable for guests of all levels, whether you are a beginner or an experienced yoga practitioner. Our instructor will offer personalised tips on postures, breathing and movement to create an enjoyable, mindful experience. Contact us

The word "zazen" comes from the Japanese "za" (seated) and "zen" (meditation). It is a fundamental and essential practice in Zen Buddhism that focuses on the cultivation of mindfulness, concentration, and insight. Join an experienced temple monk in a tranquil setting away from distractions, explore this discipline and enjoy an opportunity to clear your mind and see inside of yourself. Contact us

Experience a traditional Buddhist practice at Nishi Honganji Temple, one of Kyoto’s most important temples. As a form of meditation, morning chanting is a way to centre yourself before starting the day. It is believed that by participating in the chanting and reciting the sacred texts, one can cultivate mindfulness, compassion and a sense of interconnectedness with all beings. Contact us

Also known as "chanoyu" or "sado" in Japanese, the tea ceremony is a highly ritualised way of preparing and serving matcha (green tea). Kyoto, a city deeply connected to the history and cultural significance of the practice, is one of the best places to experience it in its most authentic and refined form. After learning the proper way of serving matcha tea, you’ll enjoy the complex taste and aroma in a tranquil setting.  Contact us

Held on the 15th of May every year, the Aoi Matsuri Festival is one of Kyoto’s most important annual events and celebrates Futaba Aoi – the hollyhock. The flower is central to everything, from the costumes to the float decorations, and visitors to Kyoto are invited to be part of the ritual by watering the flowers from February to September. Contact us

The Sagano Scenic Railway, also known as the Sagano Romantic Train runs old-fashioned trains between Saga-Arashiyama, alongside the Hozugawa River gorge for beautiful views of forests and mountains. Gaze out of the windows or take it all in from the open-air viewing car. The vistas are particularly picturesque in autumn and spring. Contact us

Inari is the god of business and prosperity and its shrine stands at the base of the mountain of the same name. More than 1,000 red torii gates, donated over the centuries, lead away from the main shrine to trails up the mountain, creating a uniquely fascinating hike. The trail to the summit takes up to three hours, but shorter walks are available too.   Contact us

Connect with nature as you step into the harvest fields, just 30 minutes from the centre of Kyoto and surrounded by mountains. Ohara is a beautiful traditional farming village where you can see where our ingredients come from. We plant several kinds of herbs in the fields and serve them in our restaurants at Dusit Thani Kyoto. Seasonally, you may harvest and enjoy them during lunch or dinner at the restaurant. The best time to visit the field is from April to November. Contact us

Connect with nature as you step into the harvest fields, just 30 minutes from the centre of Kyoto and surrounded by mountains. Ohara is a beautiful traditional farming village where you can see where our ingredients come from. We plant several kinds of herbs in the fields and serve them in our restaurants at Dusit Thani Kyoto. Seasonally, you may harvest and enjoy them during lunch or dinner at the restaurant. The best time to visit the field is from April to November. Contact us

Embrace the beauty of nature and experience the profound cultural heritage of a drink rooted deeply in Japanese culture at Dusit Thani Kyoto's Wazuka-cho field. Nestled in a region that celebrates an 800-year legacy of Uji Tea cultivation, our tea field offers guests an intimate journey. Witness firsthand how the distinct shifts in seasons shape the taste and aroma of our teas, each carrying its own story and heritage. Contact us

We occasionally team up with the best chefs from Kyoto and beyond to deliver a selection of delectable gourmet experiences that will entice your senses and tickle your taste buds. Join us for wine tastings, festive celebrations with seasonal menus, and food fusion journeys such as Thai food paired with Japanese sake. Contact us

Discover the art of authentic Thai cuisine with our talented chefs. Use ingredients hand-picked from our organic garden and learn how they’re used to intricately enhance the balance of flavors and textures in classic Thai dishes. Perfect for a couple, family, or small group, this activity combines creativity and culinary arts, culminating in a delicious finale in which you’ll enjoy your creations. Contact us

Japanese sweets, known as wagashi, are made in the shapes of flowers that represent each season and served with hot or cold tea depending on the time of year. Join us to experience culture and cuisine by crafting your own wagashi flowers using traditional tools and enjoying them as part of the tea ceremony.  Contact us

Maiko and Geiko are the Kyoto names for Geisha. After enjoying a traditional Kaiseki dinner, you’ll have the chance to see these artists perform their classical dance, join them in a unique game and enjoy a fascinating conversation with them as you admire their beautiful attire. Prepare for a night of Kyoto culture. Contact us

Nurie (colouring) is a relaxing activity for kids that promotes creativity, fine motor skills, and imagination. Let your child explore their creativity by choosing colours and expressing themselves through art. After colouring in the line drawings of Kyoto's shrines, temples, five-story pagodas, and other fascinating attractions, go see the real thing. Contact us

Hiragana is one of the three writing systems used in the Japanese language. It consists of 46 basic characters, each representing a specific sound. Join us to learn these fundamentals and master the art of writing your own name in the Hiragana script for a unique souvenir and skill to take home and impress your classmates. Contact us

Spend quality time together with a selection of fun activities designed to make magical memories rooted in this unique destination. Enjoy an escape packed with amusements including a chopsticks challenge and Japanese fan decorating. Have a tea party at our plantation in Wazuka-cho, in the mountains of Kyoto, and dye your own fabrics using the traditional art of Kyo Yuzen. Contact us

Origami, or paper-folding, is a popular activity for children and adults to enjoy peaceful moments crafting incredible shapes. Learn to make a crane – Japan’s favourite origami creation – and many more shapes. Race against one another to see who can make the most cranes in 10 minutes. Contact us

Give your child the chance to experience the Japanese martial art of Kendo, famous for its Shinai – bamboo sword, and Bogu – armour. Explore the spirit of Kendo by learning to focus on yourself and respect your opponent as you learn about Reiho – the etiquette of the art, as well as the offensive and defensive movements. Contact us