Kyoto

Through the eyes of Kyle Connaughton, the visionary chef behind Three MICHELIN Star SingleThread in California, we explore Kyoto — the chefs and restaurants there that influenced him, and the quiet poetry of his daily walks through Gion.

All year round, MICHELIN Guide inspectors visit an endless procession of restaurants. Once in a while, a dish lands on their tables that is simply unforgettable. Here are the dishes that stood out while preparing for The MICHELIN Guide Kyoto Osaka 2026.

From ramen and soba to izakaya, tonkatsu, and Thai cuisine, these 12 new Bib Gourmand restaurants reflect the range and appeal of Kyoto and Osaka’s latest selection.

The latest selection also includes five new Two-MICHELIN-Star restaurants, 19 new One-MICHELIN-Star restaurants, and the first Sommelier Award for the Kyoto Osaka area.

MUBE, led by Takatomo Izumi, was awarded One MICHELIN Star in The MICHELIN Guide Kyoto & Osaka 2026. Here, a MICHELIN Guide Inspector shares their impressions of the restaurant.

Every MICHELIN Key hotel in Kyoto, handpicked by our Inspectors.

From iconic cherry blossoms to quiet temples off the beaten path, spring reveals Kyoto’s most enchanting side.

The New Year is the most important holiday in Japan. To celebrate, a look at how 10 MICHELIN Key hotels have reimagined the ancient ryokan for a new millennium.

The garden is Kyoto’s greatest hotel amenity — a landscaped masterpiece offering painting-perfect views and a hidden oasis amid the bustle of the Ancient City.

Japan offers more than skyscrapers and ryokan: It’s home to some of the most unique hotel forms in the world.

Kyoto is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and appeal. Get to know two of the most iconic, Higashiyama and Arashiyama, with this itinerary blending history, art, natural beauty and culinary delights. You’ll also hear from two international hospitality professionals from MICHELIN Guide establishments who share how these neighborhoods shape their creative lives.

Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, internationally acclaimed for his boundary-crossing cuisine and flagship restaurants such as Jean-Georges at The Shinmonzen in Kyoto, shares his insider favorites — from udon to tempura to cocktails — alongside stories that shaped his love for the city.

Mauro Colagreco, the chef behind the Three-MICHELIN-Starred Mirazur in Menton, traces his deep-rooted affinity for Japanese culture back to Kyoto — the city where it all began. Now, years later, he’s returned with his family, eager to share the place that first awakened his fascination.

Nara, Japan’s original capital, offers a peaceful blend of ancient temples, sacred deer, and walkable parklands — just a short trip from Kyoto.

Kyoto has no shortage of izakaya, casual eateries where you can enjoy ryotei and kappo fare in a relaxed environment. Step into any one of them and be greeted by the same inviting atmosphere: gentle clinks of sake cups over the chitter chatter of guests either catching up with the chef by the counter or conversing among themselves set against warm lights that enhance the nostalgia of a Kyoto machiya (traditional two-story townhouse).

Kyoto continues to captivate international travelers — not only with its temples and gardens, but also with a culinary scene that blends tradition and innovation. The MICHELIN Guide Kyoto Osaka 2025 includes four new Bibs Gourmand, our affordable restaurants in Kyoto, spotlighting exceptional food at moderate prices.

A curated look at Kyoto’s standout dishes, all handpicked by our MICHELIN Guide Inspectors, from the 2025 selection.

Explore Kyoto with Junko Sakaguchi, okami of Sanso Kyoyamato and MICHELIN Guide Service Award winner, as she shares her favorite spots and traditions.