Kyoto Kaiseki: A Culinary Journey Through Seasons and Tradition
Joined 2025
Kaiseki is a traditional Japanese haute cuisine characterized by its meticulous preparation and artistic presentation. The tour will guide you through the intricate world of Kaiseki, where every ingredient is carefully selected to reflect the season's bounty.
Having experienced over 20 kaiseki restaurants, I've developed a deep appreciation for the art of tableware and seasonal decor. Let me create a truly special Kyoto evening for you.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel, or your choice in Kyoto city.
[About Restaurant]
We can tailor a variety of plans to suit your preferences.
Please contact me as soon as possible, as reservations are required for kaiseki restaurants. Feel free to tell me about:
your budget / preferred ingredients / location / or anything else you have in mind.
[Notification]
The course order and specific dishes can vary depending on the restaurant and the season.
Kaiseki cuisine emphasizes the natural flavors of the ingredients, resulting in delicate and refined dishes.
The presentation of each dish is an art form, showcasing the chef's skill and aesthetic sense.
Because Kaiseki cuisine has its origin from tea ceremonies, it is important to observe the manners that are based on the spirit of the tea ceremony.
1 Sakizuke
・This is the appetizer, served with a pre-dinner drink.
・It's usually a small, elegant dish featuring seasonal ingredients.
2 Shirumono
A warm soup, such as clear broth (suimono) is served.
3 Mukozuke or Sashimi
If it is based on forms of the "ichiju sansai" (one soup, three dishes), the foundation of kaiseki, you will have Mukozuke(one dish).
Or, sashimi assortment.
4 Nimono-wan
A simmered dish served in a covered bowl, featuring seasonal vegetables and seafood.
5 Yakimono
A grilled dish, such as grilled fish or meat, is served. Often, it's grilled over charcoal, giving it a smoky aroma.
6 Azukebachi (Hashiyasume)
A side dish, such as a simmered or vinegared dish, served as a palate cleanser. This course may not always be served.
7 Shiizakana or Hassun
A hearty dish, such as a fried or vinegared dish, served as a sake accompaniment. It may also be "Hassun" which is a tray of various delicacies from the sea and the land.
8 Gohanmono
This is the rice dish. Served with Pickles(Kou-no-mono) and a miso soup(Tome-wan). This is the meal's conclusion.
9 Mizugashi
A dessert, such as seasonal fruit, is served.
Ending Point
At your hotel or the place of your convenience
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide fee, Reservation fee, Hotel meet-up, Send-off in Kyoto city
Food and drink (you and guide)
Transportation fee (you) *from starting point to ending point
Tour Important Information
Attire:
・You may be asked to remove your shoes, so please wear clean socks.
・Please dress neatly and avoid casual wear such as jeans, T-shirts, and sandals.
・Please refrain from wearing strong perfumes or hair products that could interfere with the aroma of the dishes.
Table Manners: Kaiseki cuisine has specific etiquette.
・I will explain the basic manners, such as how to use chopsticks, handle dishes, and pace your meal, so please follow them.
・Please ask for permission before taking photos.
Regarding Time and Budget:
・Kaiseki dishes are served one by one, so the meal takes a long time (2 to 3.5 hours). Please allow plenty of time.
・Kaiseki cuisine is relatively expensive. Drinks are not included in the course menu, so please let me know your overall budget.
Many restaurants are closed on Sundays or Wednesdays but I try to find you where you can experience kaiseki. It is better that you contact me earlier if the tour date falls on Sunday or Wednesday.
Important message from the supplier
It's depends. Please feel free to ask me!
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2025
About Tour Guide Ayana K.
Hi, don't you interested in hidden gems in Kyoto?
I will unveil the true essence of Kyoto exclusively for you.
I'll take you to spots that locals love, away from the crowds, so you can experience the authentic Kyoto.
If you seek hands-on experiences or desire a tranquil journey to appreciate the beauty of Japan, please join me.
I studied in Switzerland from 2021 to 2022, during which time I visited many European art museums, so I understand what people look for in sightseeing.
About me:
I practice Chado (Tea Ceremony), Kodo (Incense Appreciation), and Ikebana (Flower Arrangement), .
I possess a sake sommelier certification.
I hold a wine certification.
Just one favor: please don't post about our adventures on social media.
Many of the places I take you to are not equipped to accommodate foreign visitors due to language barriers.
We want to keep these special places peaceful, so your cooperation is greatly appreciated.
$133/ per group
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