Nanzenji sando KIKUSUI in Kyoto

This is by far my favorite restaurant in Japan! Everything about it is just perfect – from the warm hospitality to the beautifully prepared dishes. The flavors are unforgettable, and every detail shows so much care and passion. The atmosphere is absolutely wonderful, making every visit feel special. Truly flawless, I couldn’t ask for anything more.

Update in 2025: My second stay during the autumn foliage season—beautiful, though not as stunning as last year when the leaves were at their peak.

The service was still warm and attentive, especially when I arrived with a slight cold.
But the breakfast was disappointing this time. Last year’s French-style breakfast and desserts were excellent, while this year’s Italian breakfast fell short.

Travel is always an ichigo ichie moment. Until next time.

Below was in 2024: This hotel is next level, it’s not just a hotel, it’s an experience.
Arriving in Kyoto late at night, I stepped out of the taxi as it turned into a quiet little lane. The glowing sign of “Kikusui” came into view, marking the start of a solo journey I’d gifted myself after a year of hard work. As I walked along the serene path steeped in Zen, the inn’s hostess greeted me at the entrance. Check-in was smooth—selecting breakfast time, exchanging pleasantries—and soon, I was finally led to my room.

I had long forgotten the specifics of my booking and spent much of the journey trying to recall what had drawn me to this place. But as the hostess slid open the door to my room, my breath caught. Outside the latticed window, illuminated by soft nightlights, stood a brilliant crimson maple, its beauty so striking I was utterly captivated. It was as if the universe had whispered, “Surprise.” No expectations truly do lead to the best surprises. The hostess, with a gentle smile, said softly, “It’s the perfect time. Please enjoy.”

Let me start with this: it’s the most enchanting inn I’ve ever stayed in during autumn. That single maple tree—standing gracefully outside my window—seemed to exist just for this room, offering a private panorama that no other guest could glimpse.

The inn itself is small, housing only six rooms. For this solo retreat, I chose the smallest, Room 203, a cozy yet luxurious 39 square meters. A quick glance at the layout suggested that Room 202 might offer an even better view of the autumn foliage with its larger windows. Their marketing, however, doesn’t do the property justice; the photos online gave no hint of this breathtaking maple. If I could rewind time, I’d pick 202 without hesitation, but perhaps that’s a treasure for my next visit.

The room is thoughtfully designed with a separate dry and wet bathroom layout. The bedroom lies further inside, and sliding doors between spaces allow for a warm, private atmosphere at night. The minibar is stocked with complimentary drinks—sparkling champagne, cold beer, and a variety of teas and coffees, perfect for indulging in a quiet evening.

Every guest receives a physical key, handed back to the front desk each time you leave and returned upon your arrival. There’s something old-worldly charming about this ritual, as if each exchange signifies a moment of connection with the inn’s spirit.

Breakfast first morning was a traditional Japanese affair—beautifully presented but not entirely to my taste, as it leaned heavily on cold dishes. Yet, the rice was exceptional, each grain a testament to the art of simplicity perfected. The end morning was amazing! It was a Japanese plus French fusion. The scallop porridge was great so I asked for more again and again, then three course desert came was fantastic too!

Great location, walking distance to 永观堂 and 南禅寺, and many good restaurants.

Ichigo ichie—a once-in-a-lifetime encounter. I had the privilege of experiencing this fleeting season of fiery maples, each leaf whispering its gratitude to the passing breeze. My heart is full.

My favorite restaurant in Kyoto. Every time I travel to Kyoto, I will take my friends or family to this restaurant. It perfectly combines beautiful scenery and delicious food. While enjoying the traditional courtyard of Kyoto outside the window, you can also quietly enjoy the carefully cooked delicacies, and the dishes are presented one by one like works of art.

This is A must experience in Kyoto.
Had a wonderful coffee time here with unique 3 different kind of ice cream.
Great garden view and nice quiet scenery.

Wow - what a gorgeous ryokan! We had two rooms for our family of four and were blown away by both when entering each room. The view of the garden is amazing. The decor, the spaciousness, the calmness and the amazing bathroom. We stayed here for one night and wish we could have stayed longer. Yes, the traditional breakfast was, err, traditional and may require a degree of adventurousness for some. In the evening, we strolled down the road for 5 minutes and devoured the best (wagyu) burgers in the world at Dragon Burger (they close early at 8pm). Upon returning to the hotel, we enjoyed a peaceful walk around the ryokan's beautiful garden - not to be missed. Only slight niggle is the bed and pillows were a little hard and the daylight blasted in from one of the bedroom windows (as there were no blinds/curtains on it). All in all, though, an incredibly memorable stay all round and one of the best places we've stayed in!

Amazing experience for 3 nights during or honeymoon.
The view on the garden from the room is unique. The rooms themselves are amazing.
The service is good, and they had a lovely attention for our honeymoon (see pictures).
It was like a dream for the whole stay.
Also, breakfast is very nice, copious and with variety, but you need to like Japan cuisine.

We celebrated Christmas Eve dinner with the dining experience at Kikusui. The staff was very attentive and every diner sat at 15 minute increments so the sole attention was on you during your course- so interesting.

Food was good and not too much as is the case often with tasting menus

Beautiful boutique hotel! The room was gorgeous! Bathroom was well designed and luxurious. Complimentary bento box with treats in the room was a nice add on. All around great experience!

Great place to enjoy tranquil afternoon tea. Located on the first floor of the building. You can see the Japanese garden from the restaurant. The afternoon tea set includes variety of small savouries and desserts. You can order drinks (tea and others) as many as you would like within the provided time frame. However, staffs are not quite actively looking for guest's order. Price is around ~5000 JPY per person.

Beautiful place for authentic Kyoto kaiseki