One Mystical Creature That Embodies This Millenary City Legacy

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Author

Alex Mustaros
August 01, 2024

I’ve been watching House of The Dragon with my family for the last couple of weekends.

It’s a prequel to the highly acclaimed series, Game of Thrones.

I love those fantasy movies and series.

Those dragons are something else!

HBO House of The Dragon

I won’t spoil it for you, but the series got me thinking about dragons.

Where did dragons come from?

It appears that people in ancient Europe and Asia may have stumbled upon dinosaur fossils, whale bones, or a combination of large predator bones, sparking their imaginations and leading them to interpret them as dragon remains.

In Japanese mythology, dragons, known as RYU or TATSU, appear as early as 680 A.D.

These dragons are thought to be the ancestors of Japan's first Emperor and hold great significance.

In Kyoto, there's a legend about a dragon king living in a pond at Shinzen'en, the Emperor's Imperial Garden.

During droughts, Buddhist monks performed rituals to persuade the dragon king to bring rain, symbolizing the region's wealth and abundance.

So, next time you find yourself in Kyoto, remember that these magnificent mythical creatures may have been first imagined there.

DESTINATION

Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan's former imperial capital, is known for its well-preserved temples, traditional wooden houses, and beautiful gardens.

This is a place where you will find a story from the past in every corner while also providing the best modern amenities for discerning travelers.

According to the Kyoto City Tourism Association, the city attracts more than 50 million visitors each year, demonstrating its timeless appeal.

DESTINATION

Experiences

Tea Ceremony Experience at En Tea House

Delve into the heart of Japanese culture with a traditional tea ceremony at En Tea House. This serene experience offers a glimpse into the meticulous art of tea preparation and the philosophy behind it. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation of Japanese hospitality and tranquility.

En Tea House

Private Guided Tour of Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with a private guide. The tour allows for a personalized and in-depth understanding of this historic site. It includes a hike through the famous red torii gates and insights into the shrine's spiritual significance.

Nishiki Market Culinary Tour

Embark on a culinary adventure through Nishiki Market, known as "Kyoto's Kitchen." This guided tour introduces travelers to local delicacies, traditional foods, and the vibrant market atmosphere, providing a taste of Kyoto's rich culinary heritage.

DESTINATION Experts

DMC’s

Regency Group Inc.

Regency Group Inc. provides high-end travel solutions, including customized tours and exclusive experiences. Their attention to detail and commitment to luxury make them a top choice for travelers to Kyoto.

Regency Group Inc.

Windows to Japan

Windows to Japan offers bespoke travel experiences with a deep understanding of Japanese culture. Their personalized services and unique itineraries cater to luxury travelers seeking an authentic and exclusive experience in Kyoto.

Boutique JTB - Japan

Boutique JTB—Japan is a division of JTB that focuses on high-end, personalized travel services. It provides exclusive tours, luxury accommodations, and unique cultural experiences tailored to discerning travelers.

EXO Travel - Japan

EXO Travel - Japan specializes in creating custom luxury travel experiences. Their deep local knowledge and connections ensure that clients enjoy exclusive access to Kyoto's best cultural and luxury offerings.

LODGING Experts

5 Star Hotels

AMAN, Kyoto

Aman Kyoto and a secret forest garden are just a mile from Buddhist temples. This secluded sanctuary pays homage to the traditional ryokan (Japanese inn) in a striking modern style. It is surrounded by ancient woodlands that once housed a revered artist community. Moss-covered stone pathways connect 26 minimalistic pavilions with 26 onsen baths that use mineral spring water.

AMAN, Kyoto

The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto

Overlooking the Kamogawa River, The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto, blends modern luxury with traditional Japanese aesthetics. This hotel offers spacious rooms, exceptional dining, and a world-class spa, making it the perfect choice for luxury travelers.

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

Set within a beautiful 800-year-old ikeniwa (pond garden), Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto provides an oasis of tranquility. The hotel features elegant accommodations, a top-notch spa, and gourmet dining options.

The Mitsui Kyoto, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Spa

Located in the heart of Kyoto, The Mitsui Kyoto offers a perfect blend of traditional Japanese elegance and modern luxury. This hotel features beautifully designed rooms, an exquisite onsen, and top-notch dining options.

Park Hyatt Kyoto

Nestled in the historic Higashiyama district, Park Hyatt Kyoto provides an exceptional luxury experience with stunning views of Kyoto’s traditional landscape. The hotel offers refined accommodations, exceptional dining, and personalized service.

LODGING Experts

Boutique Hotels

Sowaka

Blending traditional Kyoto architecture with contemporary design, Sowaka offers a unique and luxurious stay. The hotel features a Michelin-starred restaurant, Gion Roka, tranquil gardens, and beautifully designed rooms.

Web: Sowaka

Sowaka

The Celestine Kyoto Gion

Nestled in the heart of Gion, The Celestine offers stylish accommodations focused on comfort and convenience. The hotel features a serene garden, on-site dining, and close proximity to major attractions.

FUFU Kyoto

Fufu Kyoto offers a luxurious boutique hotel experience, combining traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern amenities. Located in a serene part of Kyoto, the hotel provides personalized service, exquisite dining, and beautifully appointed rooms.

For Epi-Curious Only

Restaurants

Hyotei

With a history of over 400 years, Hyotei serves traditional Kyoto cuisine in an elegant setting. This 3-Michelin Star restaurant is known for its beautifully crafted dishes and serene ambiance, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Web: Hyotei

Hyotei

Kikunoi

A Michelin three-star restaurant, Kikunoi offers an exquisite kaiseki dining experience. Chef Yoshihiro Murata combines traditional techniques with innovative presentations, creating dishes that are both beautiful and delicious.

Web: Kikunoi

Gion Sasaki

Renowned for its creative kaiseki cuisine, Gion Sasaki offers a multi-course dining experience that highlights seasonal ingredients and meticulous preparation. Each dish is a work of art, reflecting Kyoto's culinary traditions.

CONCIERGE Experts

Events

Kyoto Gion Matsuri Festival

One of Japan's most famous festivals, the Kyoto Gion Matsuri, takes place in July and features spectacular parades, traditional performances, and vibrant street markets. It's an unforgettable cultural experience for any traveler.

Museum

Kyoto National Museum

Discover Kyoto's rich cultural heritage at the Kyoto National Museum. The museum houses an extensive collection of traditional art, ceramics, textiles, and historical artifacts, offering a deep dive into Japan's history.

Kyoto National Museum

Travel Trade News

Banyan Tree Veya, Valle De Guadalupe Opens in Mexico

Situated in the Baja Californian hills, the 16-acre Banyan Tree Veya, Valle de Guadalupe, features an ethnobotanical garden, a range of wellness experiences, and a collection of 30 villas with private plunge pools. The resort has multiple dining options and a private winery.

Luxury Travel Advisor

The Virtuoso Hot 10

According to Virtuoso, the countries experiencing the largest percentage of year-over-year growth in bookings for summer 2024 are:

  • Thailand (+162%)

  • Japan (+126%)

  • Anguilla (+70%)

  • Singapore (+52%)

  • Belgium (+50%)

  • Bermuda (+50%)

  • Iceland (+49%)

  • Saint Barthélemy (+49%)

  • Sweden (+47%)

  • Netherlands (+33%)

Read the full article here

Luxury Travel Advisor

Hilton & Small Luxury Hotels Partnership

Hilton has joined an exclusive partnership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH), gaining 390 of the collection’s boutique hotels on its booking platforms.

Travel Market Report

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