As spring arrives in Kyoto, Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto welcomes the season with vibrant cherry blossoms and exquisite seasonal flavors. Nestled in the historic Higashiyama district, the hotel invites guests to immerse themselves in Japan’s most beloved time of year through thoughtfully curated dining and wellness experiences.
One of the most enchanting locations to witness the sakura bloom is Shakusui-en, the hotel’s heritage pond garden. Here, delicate pink petals drift over the tranquil water, setting the perfect scene for Hanami, the traditional Japanese custom of appreciating cherry blossoms.
From March 1, 2025, the hotel’s expert culinary team will present a series of exclusive gastronomic experiences, designed to celebrate the essence of spring. As General Manager Fanny Guibouret notes, “With stunning cherry blossom views right at the hotel, guests can enjoy this fleeting season in a peaceful and intimate setting.”
Seasonal Dining & Experiences
A Taste of Two Regions: ‘Kyoto Meets Shizuoka’
In this limited-time dining event, the hotel’s modern Japanese steakhouse showcases premium ingredients from Shizuoka, known for its rich natural produce. The menu highlights the season’s best flavors, featuring:
- Charcoal-grilled ‘Kyo no Niku’ beef fillet – paired with fresh Shizuoka wasabi and nori seaweed for a perfect balance of smoky and umami flavors.
- Kyoto Kinuhikari rice risotto – a spring-inspired dish topped with whitebait from Suruga Bay, squid, and bottarga.
Available: March 1 – May 8, 2025
- Lunch: JPY 7,000 (4-course), JPY 10,500 (5-course)
- Dinner: JPY 17,000 (5-course)
French Wine Pairing: Loire Valley Selections
A curated wine pairing experience introduces guests to Loire Valley wines, carefully selected to enhance the flavors of the seasonal menu. The selection includes three refreshing white wines and a bold red, all chosen by the hotel’s sommelier.
Available: March 1 – May 8, 2025
- Price: JPY 15,000 (4 wines, 80 ml each)
The Lounge & Bar
Exclusive Japanese Whiskey Tasting
Whiskey lovers can indulge in a unique tasting experience featuring some of Japan’s rarest and most sought-after whiskeys. This special menu includes legendary labels such as Yamazaki 25 Years, Hakushu 25 Years, and Hibiki 30 Years, each known for its rich complexity and smooth finish.
Available: March 1 – May 8, 2025
- Price: Starting from JPY 2,000
Sakurautage Afternoon Tea
Bringing the beauty of cherry blossoms to the table, this Afternoon Tea experience presents handcrafted sakura-themed sweets and savory delicacies. Guests can savor seasonal flavors like asparagus, salmon, and green apple, while enjoying a refined and relaxing atmosphere.
Available: March 1 – May 8, 2025
- Price: JPY 7,000 (weekday), JPY 7,800 (weekend)
- Seating times:
- First seating: 12:00 – 2:00 PM / 12:30 – 2:30 PM
- Second seating: 2:30 – 4:30 PM / 3:00 – 5:00 PM
Seasonal Dessert: Mixed Berry Chocolate Tart
This indulgent chocolate tart celebrates the bounty of spring with seven types of berries, from blueberries and black currants to wild strawberries, creating a vibrant balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Available: March 1 – May 8, 2025
- Price: JPY 4,000 (14 cm) / JPY 6,500 (18 cm)
Fuju & Shakusui-Tei
Japanese Sake Discovery Experience
Four Seasons sake specialists present a unique tasting experience featuring artisanal sakes from Kyoto, Yamaguchi, and Fukui. This exclusive selection offers insight into Japan’s diverse sake culture, showcasing the craftsmanship of renowned breweries.
Available: March 1 – May 8, 2025
- Price: JPY 10,000 (3 sakes, 60 ml each)
Pondside Sakura Afternoon Tea
Set against the stunning backdrop of cherry trees in full bloom, this Afternoon Tea experience highlights Kyoto’s finest spring ingredients. Guests can enjoy five delicate sweets and four savory bites, accompanied by premium Japanese teas. Signature flavors include sakura, yuzu, matcha, and strawberry.
Available: March 1 – May 8, 2025
- Price: JPY 6,500
Sushi Ginza Onodera
Omakase: A Culinary Journey
An extraordinary omakase (chef’s selection) experience brings together the finest ingredients from Kyoto, Hokkaido, and Tokyo. Guests can enjoy expertly crafted Edomae-style sushi, served at an elegant counter made from 400-year-old Japanese cypress.
- Price: JPY 37,500 (standard omakase) / JPY 49,500 (premium omakase)
Spa & Wellness
Serenity Retreat: A Spring Renewal
Designed to relax and rejuvenate, this seasonal spa treatment begins with a cherry blossom-infused salt foot bath, followed by a calming massage using cherry blossom oil and warm Himalayan pink crystals. The treatment is perfect for those looking to refresh their mind and body as they welcome the new season.
Available: March 1 – April 30, 2025
- Price: JPY 39,500 (90 minutes)