ASAI KYOTO SHIJO

Dating back 150 years to the Meiji period, Nihon-buyo has now been developed into 200 different styles of dance within Japan. The original artform was influenced by the mixture of other Japanese traditional performing arts, including Noh and Kabuki. Learn the Kyoto form – Bando-style – in an interactive class. Contact us​

An important part of classical Japanese music and drama, the tate sword has been known throughout history as both a tool for killing (during the warlike Sengoku period), but also as a symbol of authority. Visit Toei Kyoto Studio Park, where most Japanese period drama are filmed, and take a tate lesson from a pro. Contact us

Discover an instrument with a history of more than 2,300 years. The unique, powerful sound of the wadaiko accompanies special occasions and ceremonies at shrines and temples throughout Japan. Learn the cultural importance of the drum and how to play it from an expert for a unique and truly Japanese experience. Contact us

On Tuesday afternoons, we invite you to connect mind and body in a chair yoga session on the first floor. No worries if it’s your first time, the practice is very beginner-friendly and our expert yogi will guide you through the movements, one by one. Contact us​

Head to the Kamo River, just 10 minutes from ASAI, for an energising run with a gorgeous view. A pro tip: start early and the scenic path will be less crowded. Finish up at Nouryou-yuka, a temporary alfresco dining space, where students, couples and families gather for a casual breakfast on benches. Contact us

Visit Rokkakudo Temple, the original home to the school of Ikenobo – the Japanese art of floral design, now famous throughout Japan. The art form values the beauty of natural life and teaches participants to see the uniqueness of each bloom. Join a session to discover more about this beautiful tradition. Contact us

Close your eyes, release your distractions and cultivate a clearer and purer mind with this ancient Buddhist practice. Visit locally well-known temples to join a zen meditation session and find yourself feeling calmer, more mindful and focused. Contact us

Head to our local temple just five minutes walk from ASAI Kyoto Shijo to participate in morning chanting as a way to centre yourself at the start of the day. Buddhists believe that by reciting the sacred texts, we can cultivate mindfulness, compassion and a sense of interconnectedness with all beings. Contact us

Besides all its cultural heritage sites and authentic restaurants, Kyoto is home to beautiful and rich natural settings. It’s a city surrounded by towering mountains, where you’ll find wonderful hiking trails and paths. So why not head out on a trek to uncover the nature of Kyoto, including flora, fauna and gorgeous views. Contact us

Arashiyama is a well-known tourist spot, where you’ll find the emblematic Togetsu-kyo Bridge, photogenic bamboo forests and a walk-and-eat tour of tasty local snacks. Hop on board a rickshaw to discover these great sites, plus a few extra hidden places, with lots of local knowledge from your expert guide. Contact us

Get ready for a day of cultural discoveries as you explore two of our neighbouring must-see destinations. More than 1,200 years old, Kiyomizu Temple is one of Kyoto’s most popular World Heritage sites in Kyoto, set in the wooded hills east of Kyoto. Yasaka Shrine in Gion is famous for its vibrant Summer Festival. Contact us

Embrace the beauty of nature and explore the heritage of a drink rooted deeply in Japanese culture. Dusit Thani Kyoto – our sister property – has a tea field in Wazuka-cho, in south Kyoto, and invites you on a visit to see and learn about Japanese tea. Learn how the seasonal changes influence the taste and aroma of the tea, infusing each sip with a unique character. Contact us

Among Japanese green teas, matcha is unique. Join us to master the distinct method of making this brew of brews. With support from your expert tea master, you’ll learn all about its history and the easy steps to make it so it tastes perfect every time. Contact us

You’ll never get bored of the menu at Soi Gaeng. Our talented Thai chef serves new specials for lunch and dinner each month so you’ll always have something different and authentic to enjoy. Make your reservation and join us for lunch or dinner to see what’s cooking. Contact us

Join us for a fun exploration of creative mixology and learn to make our signature cocktails, Gapao Gin & Tonic and Coriander Mojito. Discover the ingredients and mixing techniques with secret tips and tricks from our friendly bartenders. Then raise your glasses and enjoy your delicious creations. Contact us

Discover the art of authentic Thai cuisine with our talented chefs at Soi Gaeng. Use ingredients hand-picked from our organic garden and learn how they're used to enhance the balance of flavours and textures in classic Thai dishes. Learn some new skills, make new friends and sit down to enjoy your culinary creations at the end. Contact us

Stop by Soi Gaeng on the first floor and grab a tasty Thai coconut ice cream before you explore the city, or re-energise with a delicious Thai bingsu when you get back. With your choice of toppings, these yummy treats are the perfect snack. ​ Contact us

A visit to Kyoto without matcha? Unthinkable! The city has played an important role in the development of Japanese green tea since the Heian period, when Kyoto was named the capital, so it’s a great place to savour the drink and the sweets. As you explore the shopping streets around Shijo and Kawaramachi, look out for the bright green treats and try them for yourself. Contact us

Any noodle experience in Japan is incomplete without soba. A truly Japanese invention, these noodles are traditionally enjoyed on New Year's Eve for good luck. Visit Sobanomi Yoshimura, just three minutes away from ASAI Kyoto Shijo, to enjoy the authentic taste of real Japanese noodles. Contact us

Shojin-ryori, or Buddhist cuisine, is influenced by the religion’s teachings. So, for vegans, vegetarians, plant-based eaters and anyone open to trying something new, it’s a great option. Stroll around the Shijo neighbourhood and you’ll find a few restaurants that specialise in this cuisine.​ Contact us

Make your way to Ponto-cho for the chance to sample authentic Japanese cuisine. The street is lined with Kyoto-style houses and runs along the Kamo River so you can enjoy picturesque views as you stroll and savour. Each restaurant has its own specials, from authentic to creative new dishes, so try everything! Contact us

Are you ready to find local hidden gems? Our ASAI ambassadors have endless local knowledge and they’ll send you out into the neighbourhood with plenty of suggestions and recommendations, whether you want culture, nature, eats or drinks. Contact us

Some heritage sites in Kyoto welcome night-time visitors. Yasaka Shrine is open 24 hours and Kiyomizu Temple allows guests until 21:00 on special occasions. And at other sites, the illuminations make the experience extra magical. Contact us

Take in magnificent views of seasonal beauty on the Sagano Scenic Train. Hop aboard at Kyoto station and glide through the countryside, snapping epic pics from the viewing windows. With cherry blossoms in spring and incredible colours in autumn, it’s a seasonal spectacle not to be missed. Contact us

In a city with strict height limits in place to protect the skyline, this unique 100-metre building is an incredible spot to take in panoramic views of Kyoto at night. Look out over the city to pick out World Heritage Sites like Kiyomizu Temple. Fancy a cocktail with your vista? Why not visit the sky lounge below the observation deck? Contact us

The season is fleeting, but that’s exactly why it's worth visiting Kyoto’s famous heritage sites when the cherry blossoms are in bloom. At night, Heian Shrine, To-ji Temple and Kiyomizu Temple also offer illuminations to elevate the natural beauty and make your Instagram pics even better. Contact us

Head to the rental shops in our neighbourhood to find beautiful examples of traditional Japanese dress. While the kimono is made from fine materials and worn for formal occasions, the yukata is considered more casual and often worn during summer. Get in the mood and fit in with the townscape of the ancient capital Kyoto. Contact us

Compact Kyoto is small and safe – perfect for family explorations on two wheels. Rent yours from J-cycle, near ASAI Kyoto Shijo, and head out to explore the ancient capital of Japan. Bike along the Kamo River and stop at local cafes for coffee and sweets. There’s something for everyone out there. Contact us

Ever dreamed of becoming a Ninja? All your dreams come true at NINJA DOJO and STORE KYOTO, where you can participate in real ninja training in one of the main styles. Get dressed in your costume and master new skills with classes for every level from beginner to pro. Contact us