From Premium Matcha to Autumn Maple
Come fall, Kyoto transforms into a breathtaking crimson landscape, coloured by maple trees, golden ginkgo leaves, and cool mountain breezes. As the city’s temples and gardens glow with autumn’s palette, teahouses offer a cosy escape into Japan’s centuries-old tea culture. Here are the most enchanting places to enjoy tea and nature in Kyoto this season.
Gion Tsujiri Tea House
Located in the historic Gion district, Gion Tsujiri is beloved for its premium matcha. Enjoy velvety matcha parfaits, warm tea bowls, and seasonal sweets while watching the streets come alive with passerby geishas and autumn charm.
Koujitsukyo Tea House (Higashiyama)
Not far from the top hotels in Kyoto, Japan, Koujitsukyo offers an intimate tea experience surrounded by the hills of Higashiyama. Traditional tatami rooms, garden views, and handcrafted wagashi create the perfect ambience, just a short walk away from stays like The Hotel Higashiyama.
Shugakuin Imperial Villa
A masterpiece of Japanese garden design, this sprawling Imperial Villa features sweeping landscapes, tranquil ponds, and elegant pavilions. Guided visits offer a chance to appreciate Shugakuin’s several gardens, framed by fiery autumn trees and gorgeous mountain scenery.
Honen-in Temple
Tucked away from the crowds, Honen-in Temple enchants visitors with moss-covered gates, stone pathways, and peaceful tea spaces. Visit during peak foliage to enjoy a truly meditative tea moment in one of Kyoto’s most atmospheric settings.
