Kyoto Brighton Hotel’s
original activities
to explore a special Kyoto
Recommended Activities
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Spring Private Tours Program
Morning Tours Special early entry to Kyoto’s famous temples with beautiful Cherry Blossoms (Sakura)Concept If you would like to enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms (Sakura) in peace, here is the answer for you. This special plan will take you to temples and gardens famous with cherry blossoms (Sakura), privately reserved just for Kyoto Brighton Hotel. You can enter each site before the gates open to the public, enjoy strolling the gardens, and take photos in the peaceful atmosphere. Also enjoy our delicious breakfast after returning to the hotel. Don’t miss the opportunity to join one of the most special and popular activities with us.
Tour Date April 3rd-10th, 2026
Privately reserved for Kyoto Brighton Hotel
20-40 guests each day, depending on the destinationDestination April 3rd To-ji Temple
April 4th Bishamondo-Monzeki Temple
April 5th Daikakuji Temple
April 7th Taizo-in Temple
April 8th Haradanien Garden
April 10th Haradanien GardenPrice from 49,300JPY per pax (based on double occupancy in an Executive Twin Room)
*Prices differ depending on the date, pax, room type, etc.What's Included - one-night stay from the previous day, consumption tax (accommodation tax to be paid separately)
- breakfast (Japanese set menu or Western buffet)
- transportation between hotel and destination
- welcome drink
- goshuin stamp (Red ink stamp)
Notes - This tour will be conducted in the same group as Japanese guests staying at Kyoto Brighton Hotel. Please note that all guidance and explanations at the viewing sites will be provided in Japanese. Thank you for your understanding.
- For breakfast, you may choose from either the Japanese set menu or the western buffet.
- Please note that due to weather or other conditions, the content of the service may be altered or canceled.
- There may be instances where you will need to walk on stairs, slopes, or gravel pathways. If you have any concerns regarding mobility, please inform us in advance.
- Please note that travel schedules may be adjusted slightly due to traffic conditions, etc.
- Seasonal scenery, such as Sakura (cherry blossoms), may vary depending on its condition.
The peaceful moment
Gardens are usually designed to be enjoyed from a seated position. With the limited number of participants, the quiet atmosphere will allow you to relax in the true way.
Enjoy the Cherry Blossoms (Sakura) at Different Temples
We will take you to different temples each day, during the period. Why not join the tour every morning during your stay, and enjoy each atmosphere?
Pickup and drop-off from the hotel
There is no need to worry about the transport. Every morning, the tour will pick you up from the hotel, attended by the hotel staff.
Daikakuji Temple -The Former Saga Imperial Palace-
April 5th
Members of the Imperial family had occupied the position of the abbot of the temple until the early Meiji era (1868-1912). The large pond beside the garden is the oldest existing artificial pond in Japan, where many cherry blossoms bloom beautifully.
Taizo-in -Zen Buddhist Temple with a spectacular Japanese Pond Garden-
April 7th
Located in the heart of Myoshin-ji Temple Complex, Taizo-in is famous for the beautiful pond garden “Yoko-en”, which displays beautiful colours of a different kind in each season. The weeping cherry blossom tree at the entrance is gorgeous.
To-ji Temple -UNESCO World Heritage Site-
April 3rd
Famous for its 55 meters high Five-Storied Pagoda, and a national treasure from the 17th century and the tallest wooden pagoda in Japan, To-ji is known as the symbol of Kyoto. The scenery of Sakura (cherry) trees together with the pagoda is a must-see.
Haradanien Garden -The Earthly Paradise-
April 8th & 10th
Located in the north-west of Kyoto, this Haradanien Garden is a secret cherry blossom spot known only to the locals. The vast and beautiful garden is full of many different kinds of Sakura, snow willow, Japanese globeflower, etc… enjoy the superb scenery together with the floral fragrance.
Bishamondo-Monzeki Temple
April 4th
Having a history of imperial princes serving as head priests, the temple is famous for its 150-year old cherry tree and lovely autumn maple leaves. The great ink dragon with clouds on the ceiling of the Reiden Hall was painted by Kanō Eishoku, one of the famous painters of the Kanoha group.
Breakfast (Japanese set menu or Western buffet)
After returning to the hotel, breakfast will be waiting for you. The end of the relaxing morning tour will add you the energy to start the day.
Previous day Check-in 7:00～7:30 Departure from hotel (by van type taxi) 7:30〜9:00 Arrival at each temple and garden
Explore the beautiful garden9:00 Departure from each temple and garden (by van type taxi) 9:30 Arrival at hotel, breakfast (Japanese set menu or Western buffet) -
Spring Private Tours Program
Night Tour at Kiyomizu-dera (UNESCO World Heritage Site) Enjoy a spectacular night view with beautiful Cherry Blossoms (Sakura) at one of the most famous World Heritage sites.Concept A luxurious way to enjoy a spectacular night view of a World Heritage site - we will show you to a private evening tour at Kiyomizu-dera Temple. 50 participants can join the tour, privately reserved just for Kyoto Brighton Hotel. After enjoying dinner at one of our four restaurants, we will take you to the only-one special tour, where you can print the beautifully illuminated cherry blossoms both in your minds and in your cameras.
Tour Date April 6th, 2026
Privately reserved for Kyoto Brighton Hotel
Approximately 50paxPrice from 81,000JPY per person (based on double occupancy in an Executive Twin Room)
*Prices differ depending on the pax, room type, etc.What's Included - one-night stay on the tour date, consumption tax (accommodation tax to be paid separately)
- dinner (to be chosen from Traditional Japanese Cuisine, Chinese or Western style)
- breakfast (Japanese set menu or Western buffet)
- transportation between hotel and destination
- welcome drink
- goshuin stamp (Red ink stamp)
Notes - This tour will be conducted in the same group as Japanese guests staying at Kyoto Brighton Hotel. Please note that all guidance and explanations at the viewing sites will be provided in Japanese. Thank you for your understanding.
- Please note that due to weather or other circumstances, the content of services may be altered or canceled.
- Guests may encounter stairs, slopes, or gravel paths during the tour. If you have concerns about walking or mobility, please inform us in advance.
- Timing may be subject to adjustments due to traffic conditions.
- Seasonal scenery, such as Sakura (cherry blossoms), may vary depending on its condition.
Enjoy the Spectacular Night View
The temple offers a stunning cityscape of Kyoto, especially beautiful in the evening. Don’t miss the chance to reach the outstanding panoramic view of the city.
Make the most of it
Being one of the most famous World Heritage sites in Kyoto, the temple is usually full with people while open to the public. This small group private tour will allow you to enjoy its atmosphere in peace.
Informative talks by a famous monk
Participants will first enter a special room that is usually not accessible, whare a famous monk from Kiyomizu-dera Temple will talk about Kannon and Kiyomizu-dera Temple in an easy-to-understand manner. (in Japanase)
Pickup and drop-off from the hotel
There is no need to worry about the transport. The tour will pick you up from the hotel, attended by the hotel staff.
Enjoy the Culinary Brighton
Menus are supervised by our award-winning Executive Chef, renowned for numerous accolades. Please choose your preferred dinner from our exquisite in-house restaurants.
Relaxing time back in your room
Our guest rooms are spacious with plenty of space. Relax in your room until the next day, where there is no need to rush for check-out until noon.
15:00 Check-in 17:00 Dinner at hotel (to be chosen from one of our in-house restaurants) 19:15 Departure from hotel (by van type taxi) 19:45 Arrival at Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Explore the night view with beautiful cherry blossoms21:00 Departure from Kiyomizu-dera Temple (by van type taxi) 21:30 Back to hotel 
Spring Private Tours Program Night Tour at Kiyomizu-dera (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Make a Reservation -
Spring Private Tours Program
Night Tour at Ninnaji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site)Concept Ninnaji Temple is a Buddhist temple in north-west Kyoto that is deeply related with the Imperial Family of Japan. The temple is especially famous for its Omuro Sakura cherry trees which are the latest blooming cherries in the whole of Kyoto city. This spring, 30 participants can join our special tour, privately reserved just for Kyoto Brighton Hotel.
Tour Date Tour Date
April 10th, 2026
Privately reserved for Kyoto Brighton Hotel
Approximately 30paxPrice from 78,000JPY per person (based on double occupancy in an Executive Twin Room)
*Prices differ depending on the pax, room type, etc.What's Included - one-night stay on the tour date, consumption tax (accommodation tax to be paid separately)
- dinner (to be chosen from Traditional Japanese Cuisine, Chinese or Western style)
- breakfast (Japanese set menu or Western buffet)
- transportation between hotel and destination
- welcome drink
- goshuin stamp (Red ink stamp)
Notes - This tour will be conducted in the same group as Japanese guests staying at Kyoto Brighton Hotel. Please note that all guidance and explanations at the viewing sites will be provided in Japanese. Thank you for your understanding.
- Please note that the itinerary may be subject to changes or cancellation due to weather or other conditions.
- Portions of the tour may involve walking on stairs, sloped paths, or gravel trails. If you have any concerns regarding mobility, please inform us in advance.
- Timings may vary due to traffic or other factors.
- Seasonal scenery, such as Sakura (cherry blossoms), may vary depending on its condition.
Kondo (National Treasure / Usually not open to public)
The Kondo (Main Hall) was originally on the grounds of the Imperial Palace in central Kyoto, donated to the temple in the 1600s.
Nio-mon Gate（Important Cultural Property）
Guarded by the two otherworldly, wrestler-like Kongo-rikishi statues, the gate is one of the three most famous of the numerous temple entrance gates in Kyoto.
Goten Palace（Registered Tangible Cultural Property）
Built in the style of an imperial palace, the highlight is the Goten, the former residence of the head priest in the southwestern corner of the temple complex.
Omuro Sakura (Cherry Blossoms)
The temple is especially famous for its Omuro Sakura cherry trees which are the latest blooming cherries in the whole of Kyoto city.
Enjoy the Culinary Brighton
Menus are supervised by our award-winning Executive Chef, renowned for numerous accolades. Please choose your preferred dinner from our exquisite in-house restaurants.
Relaxing time in your room
Our guest rooms are spacious with plenty of space. Relax in your room until the next day, , where there is no need to rush for check-out until noon.
15:00 Check-in 17:15 Departure from the hotel via jumbo taxi to Ninnaji Temple 17:45 Arrival at Ninnaji Temple
Explore the night view with beautiful Sakura (cherry blossoms)19:15 Departure from Ninnaji Temple via jumbo taxi back to the hotel 19:45 Return to the hotel
Dinner at the hotel's restaurant
Seats will be arranged for each group booking
Your table will be available until 10:00pm
Spring Private Tours Program Night Tour at Ninnaji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Make a reservation -
Morning Zazen Experience at Tenryu-ji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Concept Being one of the most famous and popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kyoto, Tenryu-ji Temple is usually full of visitors, coming from all over the world.This program will take you to the temple before it opens to the public, where you are able to experience Zazen (Zen meditation) in front of the historic site.
Tour Date April 9th, 2026
Privately reserved for Kyoto Brighton Hotel
Approximately 20paxPrice from 49,300JPY per person (based on double occupancy in an Executive Twin Room)
*Prices differ depending on the pax, room type, etc.What's Included - one-night stay from the previous day, consumption tax (accommodation tax to be paid separately)
- breakfast (Japanese set menu or Western buffet)
- transportation between hotel and destination
- welcome drink
Notes - This tour will be conducted in the same group as Japanese guests staying at Kyoto Brighton Hotel.
- For breakfast, you may choose from either the Japanese set menu or the western buffet.
- Please note that due to weather or other conditions, the content of the service may be altered or canceled.
- For the Zazen (Zen meditation) experience, as you will be sitting on a zabuton cushion, we recommend wearing loose-fitting pants.
- Please be aware that you may need to walk on stairs, slopes, or gravel paths. If you have concerns about walking or your footing, please kindly inform us in advance.
- Explanations will be provided so that even first-time participants can join with peace of mind. If you have concerns about sitting cross-legged (for Zazen), please consult with us.
- Seasonal scenery, such as Sakura (cherry blossoms), may vary depending on its condition.
Major Rinzai Zen Temple in Arashiyama
Established in 1339 by the shogun Ashikaga Takauji in memory of Emperor Go-Daigo, Tenryu-ji is well known as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Sogenchi Teien (Sogen Pond Garden)
Laid out nearly 700 years ago by Zen master Muso Soseki, the garden’s appearance remains unchanged. This special Zazen experience will be held in front of this beautiful garden.
Guided by a Zen monk from America
The tour will be guided by an American-born Zen monk, who has been in Japan for more than 50 years. Being one of very few Westerners to complete the full Zen training, he will give you the special opportunity to experience the world of Zen.
Enjoy the Beautiful Garden in Peace
After the Zazen experience, enjoy exploring the garden full of cherry blossoms and other beautiful flowers in a private, peaceful atmosphere.
Breakfast (Japanese set menu or Western buffet)
After returning to the hotel, breakfast will be waiting for you. The end of the relaxing morning tour will add you the energy to start the day.
Relaxing time back in your room
Our guest rooms are spacious with plenty of space. Relax in your room after breakfast, where there is no need to rush for check-out until noon.
Previous day Check-in 7:00 Departure from hotel (by van type taxi) 7:30 Arrival at Tenryu-ji Temple
Zazen (Zen meditation) experience
Explore the beautiful garden9:00 Departure from Tenryu-ji Temple (by van type taxi) 9:30 Arrival at hotel, breakfast (Japanese set menu or Western buffet) -
Gozan Okuribi (Daimonji Bonfire)
Summer Special: Dinner & Rooftop Viewing PlanConcept Gozan Okuribi, also known as the Daimonji Bonfire, is one of Kyoto's most symbolic summer sacred rituals, illuminating the night sky in a spectacular fashion. On August 16th only, our hotel offers an exclusive plan allowing guests to ascend to our rooftop for an unparalleled view of this magnificent ceremony. Spend a truly unforgettable evening experiencing this once-a-year sacred event.
Date August 16th, 2026 Price from 60,900JPY per person (based on double occupancy in an Executive Twin Room)
*Prices differ depending on the pax, room type, etc.What's Included - one-night stay on the tour date, consumption tax (accommodation tax to be paid separately)
- dinner (to be chosen from Traditional Japanese Cuisine, Chinese, Teppanyaki or Western style)
- breakfast (Japanese set menu or Western buffet)
Notes - Prices vary depending on your choice of restaurant.
- To access the rooftop, you will need to use some stairs.
- Please note that depending on your viewing location, parts of the view may be obstructed by buildings or other structures. We appreciate your understanding.
- Rooftop viewing may be canceled due to inclement weather or other reasons.
- Please note that for rooftop viewing, wheelchairs, strollers, and photography/videography with tripods or similar equipment are not permitted.
In the Heart of Kyoto
Located in Kamigyo Ward, our hotel stands in the heart of Kyoto. This district, where traditional culture still thrives amidst numerous government offices and scenic spots, offers panoramic views of the Gozan mountains.
Gozan Okuribi Bonfires Visible From Our Hotel
From the hotel's rooftop, you can enjoy views of almost all of the Gozan Okuribi bonfires.
Dinner Options
Our Executive Chef, acclaimed with numerous awards including the Yellow Ribbon Medal of Honor and designation as a Contemporary Master Craftsman, oversees the exquisite cuisine served at each of our restaurants.
15:00 Check-in 16:45 Dinner at your chosen restaurant 19:30 Rooftop access begins 20:00 Gozan Okuribi Bonfire Lighting commences
20:00 Daimonji Bonfire lights up
20:05 Myo/Ho Bonfire lights up
20:10 Funagata Manto-ro Bonfire lights up
20:15 Hidari Daimonji Bonfire lights up
20:20 Torii-gata Bonfire lights upAfter conclusion Event concludes, and guests are free to depart.
Gozan Okuribi (Daimonji Bonfire) Summer Special: Dinner & Rooftop Viewing Plan
Terrace Restaurant
Feerie Kyo-kaiseki
Hotaru Chinese Restaurant
Kakan Teppanyaki
Himorogi -
Toraya Karyo Kyoto Ichijo "Morning Matcha Experience" Enjoy the Morning Japanese Garden View
Concept Toraya, a venerable Japanese confectionery shop, has been located west of the Imperial Palace (Gosho) since before 1628. This quiet and historic neighborhood is where the shop has long served the Imperial Palace. The garden, featuring an Inari shrine and an Edo-period storehouse, changes its expression with each season and has also been selected for the National Japanese Garden Ranking. We have prepared a special plan that allows you to experience wagashi (Japanese sweets) and matcha (green tea) in a private, spacious setting during the quiet pre-opening hours, all while overlooking this beautiful garden. Enjoy the traditional Japanese culture of tea ceremony and wagashi, and spend a profound moment unique to Kyoto.
Dates Every Friday from October 3, 2025
Exclusion Dates: January 2nd & 9th, 2026, and other closing daysPrice 5,000 JPY per person
*Exclusive for guests staying at Kyoto Brighton HotelWhat's Included - Matcha (green tea) and seasonal fresh wagashi at Toraya Karyo, a souvenir of Kyoto-limited Toraya yokan (sweet bean jelly), and consumption tax
Notes - This is an optional plan exclusive for guests staying at Kyoto Brighton Hotel. Please note that, depending on reservation status, you may be guided alongside other hotel guests.
- Reservations are accepted for 2 to 10 people.
- If you wish to participate, please inform the concierge by 15:00 the day before. Reservations are accepted starting one month in advance.
- For those who wish for a simple matcha whisking experience, you can enjoy it for approximately 30 minutes under the guidance of the staff (times may vary depending on reservation status). Kindly inform us when booking. No additional fee is required.
- Please enjoy your time at Karyo at a leisurely pace, aiming to depart around 10:30. After the 10:00 opening, general customers will start arriving.
- You can choose your preferred wagashi from several types on the day. As quantities are limited, the store may not be able to accommodate requests for the same item if multiple persons desire it.
- If you have any food allergies, please inform us when making your reservation.
A Moment to Experience Japanese Culture
At Toraya Karyo, approximately 600 books related to Japanese culture are freely available for browsing. The "Toraya Kyoto Gallery" also occasionally hosts exhibitions related to Kyoto.
The Beautiful Japanese Garden All to Yourself
Selected for the National Japanese Garden Ranking "Shiosai Project," you can enjoy sweets while gazing at the garden that changes its expression with each season.
Matcha Experience Exclusive to This Plan
For those who wish, a simple experience of whisking your own matcha under the guidance of the staff is also possible. This is a special opportunity not available during regular business hours.
9:25 Walk from the hotel
Staff will guide you to the store9:30 Arrive at Toraya Karyo
Enjoy matcha and wagashi in the quiet atmosphere10:30 Free to depart after the experience
Past Events
Autumn Private Tours Program
Night Tour at Ninnaji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Following the success of this spring's event, we held our first autumn special program, offering small-group guided tours after public closing hours.
November 2025
Autumn Private Tours Program
Morning Tours
Special early entry to Kyoto’s famous temples and shrines with beautiful autumn leaves
Guests experienced a serene early morning, enjoying exclusive private access to one of Kyoto's famous autumn foliage spots before public opening hours, as part of our highly popular plan.
November 2025
Autumn Private Tours Program
Night Tour at Kiyomizu-dera Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Enjoy a spectacular night view with beautiful autumn leaves at one of the most famous World Heritage sites
Guests enjoyed a truly luxurious experience: exclusive private access to a World Heritage site for just 50 attendees, savoring the magnificent night view of Kyoto City.
December 2025
KAWADOKO ＆ NORYO YUKA Riverside Dining Plan
Guests enjoyed Kawadoko dining amidst lush greenery and the river's gentle sound. They savored delicious summer dishes, experiencing Kyoto's natural coolness – a refreshing escape from air-conditioned interiors.
Summer 2025
Kabuki Performance at the Minamiza Theatre
March Program
First class seat ticket included
Guests enjoyed the special KABUKI performance at the Minamiza Theatre, from the first class seats.
March 2024
Kabuki Performance at the Minamiza Theatre
December Program
First class seat ticket included
Guests enjoyed the special KABUKI performance at the Minamiza Theatre, from the first class seats.
December 2023
