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Japan

Travel 1 min.

The Best Izakayas in Kyoto for Tasteful Plates and Local Sakes

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).

Travel 2 min.

The 4 Best Affordable Restaurants in Kyoto

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.

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Kyoto’s Must-Try Dishes, According to Our MICHELIN Guide Inspectors

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

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The Most Affordable Hotels in Central Kyoto

Its compact size, flat terrain, grid-like streets and scenic paths make Kyoto among the most walkable cities in Japan — and one that’s best discovered on foot.

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Best Day Trips from Kyoto: Nara to Osaka

Kyoto’s an exciting place for food and culture in itself, but it’s also a great base for exploring other parts of Western Japan.

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How to Choose Your Kyoto Ryokan

Even the most traditional Kyoto ryokan makes some modern concessions. Ask yourself: just how much authenticity are you after?

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A Guide to Gion, Kyoto: Where to Eat, Stay and Explore in the Geisha District

In Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district, kaiseki masters, tempura artisans, and MICHELIN-starred chefs serve up tradition with a modern edge.

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Ace Hotel: The First-Timer's Home Base in Kyoto

With just enough time to plan a trip before cherry blossom season this spring, we're taking a closer look at one of the best hotels in Kyoto. Once you’ve found your sea legs in Japan, you might try a hyper-traditional ryokan. Until then, consider the One Key Ace Hotel.

Travel 3 min.

What Is a Ryotei? Discover Kyoto’s Best Traditional Restaurants

Kyoto’s ryotei culture traces its roots to the philosophy of wabi-sabi — a reverence for imperfection and impermanence — shaped by tea master Sen no Rikyu in the late 16th century.

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A One‑Stop Taste of Osaka: InterContinental Hotel’s MICHELIN Key Luxury

Osaka might be a detour off the typical Japan itinerary, but the so-called “Nation’s Kitchen” is an obvious stop for the MICHELIN-minded traveler. At the One Key InterContinental Osaka, everything that makes this city special, all in one place.

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What Is Kyo-Sushi And Where To Find It In Kyoto

Kyo-sushi is Kyoto’s elegant take on sushi, rooted in local ingredients, seasonal restraint, and centuries-old techniques unique to the city’s refined cuisine.

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Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Kyoto for Seasonal Japanese Cuisine

Kyoto’s rich culinary heritage goes beyond wagyu and kaiseki, it’s also the best city to try exceptional vegetarian food.

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Tokyo’s Hotels Are As Luxurious As Any in the World

From sky-high penthouses and private infinity pools to MICHELIN-Starred dining, these luxury Tokyo hotels are the ultimate playgrounds for the fabulously flush.

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Gourmet Getaways: MICHELIN Key Hotels in Japan and Thailand with Starred Restaurants

Why choose between a luxurious stay and a world-class meal when you can have both? These MICHELIN Key hotels in Japan and Thailand are home to MICHELIN-Starred restaurants, offering the perfect blend of impeccable hospitality and cuisine.

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Winter in Tokyo: 5 Ways to Eat, Explore, and Indulge

Discover unique ways to experience Tokyo’s winter charm—from glittering lights to gourmet delights—according to a local.

Dining Out 2 min.

Yama: Japan’s First Dessert-Only MICHELIN-Starred Restaurant

In The MICHELIN Guide Tokyo 2025, history was made: for the first time, a dessert-focused restaurant earned a MICHELIN Star. At Yama, Chef Koichi Katsumata redefines fine dining through an eight-course dessert experience, proving that sweets can be just as sophisticated as savory cuisine.

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Yuta Tamamori’s Tokyo: The Actor and Singer’s Favorite Spots in the Neon City

Actor and idol Yuta Tamamori shares his favorite Tokyo addresses with MICHELIN, from third-wave coffee spots to serene hotel restaurants.

Dining Out 1 min.

MICHELIN Guide Tokyo 2025 Inspectors’ Favorite Dishes

Year round, MICHELIN Guide inspectors sample an endless procession of dishes. Once in a while, a dish lands on their tables that is simply unforgettable.