Experience Fall Foliage Season at The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto

The introduction of the new offerings comes as the breathtaking fall foliage season commences. One of the city’s most iconic destinations to take in all of autumn’s splendor is the Myokaku-ji Temple, a Nichiren Buddhist temple founded in 1284. Although fall is when Kyoto experiences high volumes of tourists, the temple provides a completely tranquil and serene retreat to be one with nature and view the vibrant crimson maple leaves.

Kyoto is a city where artisans practice rare skills, passed down through kin over the course of centuries. To help guests gain insight into these ancient traditions, The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto created special activities such as the “Samurai Experience” for participants to perform a Japanese sword dance called kembu, and “Your Own Zen Garden,” during which participants learn to make their own miniature bonsai plants.

And now, due to popular demand, The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto is now expanding its range of offerings to three new immersive experiences, including a morning chanting session at the Myokaku-ji Temple:

Morning Chanting Experience takes place at Myokaku-ji Temple, where guests can witness monks chanting to the beat of Japanese drums. Exclusive to guests of The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto, this experience takes guests to Gosho, in which guests are welcomed to explore by bike prior to attending the monk chanting. At the end of the chanting session, guests will learn how to play the drums and enjoy a traditional Japanese onigiri and miso soup breakfast with the monks, for the perfect start to a Kyoto morning.

Morning chanting Experience
Available time: 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Transportation: Bicycle or Car
Fee: ¥10,000/group (or approximately 92 USD)
*Group could be couple, family or friends traveling together.
(MAX 6 persons)

With the Japanese Harp Experience, guests are invited to learn how to play the “Koto,” a 13-stringed harp-like ancient Japanese musical instrument. The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto connects guests with a professional Koto player instructing them on how to create beautiful, angelic music with the instrument. Guests will be amazed to find that they will be able to perform a traditional Japanese song by the end of the experience.

Japanese Harp Experience
Duration: 1 hour
Fee: ¥8,000/person (or approximately USD 73)
For reservations and inquiries:
TEL： +81-(0)75-746-5555
Email：rc.kyoto.activity@ritzcarlton.com

The Kyoto Tandem Bike Ride takes guests on a fun-filled cycling adventure around Kyoto with a friend or loved one. Tandem biking along the riverside and visiting temples is one of the most enjoyable ways to see the real Kyoto.

Kyoto Tandem Bike Ride
Number of persons: 2
Duration: 1 hour - 1.5 hours
Fee: Complimentary
This activity is arranged upon request and subject to availability.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto sits serenely on the banks of the Kamogawa River, with sweeping views of the famous Higashiyama Mountains. The resort features 134 guest rooms and suites, four restaurants and bars, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, and four different types of banquet rooms ranging from corporate dinners, to meetings, exhibitions and private events. The resort also boasts a unique partnership with Pierre Hermé Paris, creator of Haute Pàtisserie, showcasing popular creations and introducing an exclusive range of signature desserts. Blending the centuries old traditions and rich culture of Japan's ancient capital with modern luxury, The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto brings to life the cultural heart of Japan. The resort is in close proximity to Kyoto's popular downtown areas including Gion and Kawaramachi-dori, the city's retail and entertainment district. For more information or book accommodation, visit www.ritzcarlton.com/kyoto.