Kyoto Romantic Cherry Blossom Itinerary
Kyoto’s cherry blossoms are naturally romantic. Here’s a great way to enjoy the best of Kyoto’s cherry blossoms while avoiding the worst of the crowds

Kyoto Romantic Cherry Blossom Itinerary
Kyoto’s cherry blossoms are naturally romantic. But crowds are not. Here’s a great way to enjoy the best of Kyoto’s cherry blossoms while avoiding the worst of the crowds.

Where To Stay In Kyoto 2025
If you’re wondering where to stay in Kyoto, check our comparison of Kyoto’s key areas for places to stay and our rundown of the types of accommodation available in Kyoto.

Kyoto Events February 2025
It may still be chilly, but the first warmth of spring comes to Kyoto in February, and with it, the first plum blossoms too. There’s also the fascinating Setsubun festival, which is celebrated at shrines around the city.
Sake Brewery Tour And Tasting In Kyoto
Most sake brewery tours are impersonal group tours that require a long journey into the countryside, but there’s one brewery in central Kyoto that offers private tours and sake tasting. It’s called Sasaki Shuzo and they offer private tours led by the head brewer.
Coltrane Sweet Tonkatsu Curry
Sweet tonkatsu curry and cool jazz is a great combination and Coltrane is the place to enjoy it. Coltrane is a hip little joint on the edge of downtown, within easy walking distance of many hotels in the city core. It’s one of our favorite curry joints in Kyoto.
Mimaru Kyoto Nishinotoin Takasuji
The Mimaru Kyoto Nishinotoin Takasuji may be hard to pronounce, but it’s easy to love, especially for families. Indeed, we’re going to go out on a limb and say that it’s the best family hotel in Kyoto. Your kids will love the Pokémon room!
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
For all the essentials, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
For ideas on how to structure your trip, see my list of Kyoto Itineraries
Here’s a comprehensive list of Things To Do In Kyoto for inspiration and to book ahead where necessary
Do you want help planning your Japan trip? My team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
See my one page guide on Where To Stay In Kyoto
You can buy a Japan eSim SIM card or an unlimited data pocket wifi router online before you arrive in Japan for collection on arrival
View my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
See if the Japan Rail Pass can save you money during your trip
Why it's essential to have travel insurance for Japan
Travellers to Japan no longer need to supply proof of Covid vaccination or a negative test. We have all the latest news on visiting Japan
Visiting Tokyo or Osaka too?
Don't forget my companion websites InsideOsaka.com and TrulyTokyo.com for in-depth guides to these fascinating cities.
Happy travels!
Chris Rowthorn