The Lane Editor’s Travel Guide to Kyoto

As Karissa, in lieu with art director Gabby, journeyed into the heart of Japan, they found themselves awestruck by Kyoto’s quiet grace — a place where centuries of craftsmanship meet the poetry of ritual. Always in pursuit of a shock of beauty, Kyoto delivered – pulsing through every temple, every lantern-lit street, every perfectly poised moment. For creatives like ourselves, it’s nothing short of heaven — a sanctuary of craftsmanship, where humanity is expressed through the art of making, and every detail tells a story.

After a flight from Australia and a swift train ride, a dark night sky blanketed the town as we arrived. The stars above, scattered like tiny lanterns, seemed to bow in quiet welcome. Ushered into serene ryokan rooms at Four Seasons Kyoto, we drifted into a deep, dreamless sleep. Morning arrived with the soft glow of dawn, illuminating moss-covered gardens and the gentle chime of temple bells echoing through the stillness.

Even with so much to see, the morning unfolded unhurried. Kyoto doesn’t rush – it whispers. We began with a culinary exploration that felt more like art appreciation. At Stardust, a quaint café and boutique, every detail was imbued with intention. From the perfectly baked carrot cake and brûlée to the hashioki (chopstick rests) and handmade ceramics, beauty seemed to infuse every corner of the space. On the front of the menu, a simple quote caught our attention: “We are all stardust, we all have a light that belongs to the universe.” It struck a chord, echoing the quiet philosophy of Kyoto. In that moment, we realized that chasing beauty, creating it, and sharing it is the light that illuminates us.

“We are all stardust, we all have a light that belongs to the universe.”

Fueled by inspiration, we visited Misae Nikkei, an artisan whose journey from jeweler to cutlery maker has long captivated us. Her studio was a treasure trove of gilded spoons, handcrafted mugs, and tools that told stories through their patina. Misae’s humility and grace left an indelible impression. She confessed her nerves about speaking English, but her warmth transcended language. She spoke of the intimacy of Japanese weddings – small, authentic, and deeply personal. It made us reflect on the power of simplicity and the beauty of creating something meaningful without artifice. “Weddings,” Misae said, “are an extension of who you are, not a show.”

Then, we ventured deeper into Kyoto, guided by Misae’s list of favorite hidden gems.

In the meantime, we took the chance to explore more of Kyoto’s cultural offerings. Misea had suggested Kankakari Gallery – a still, meditative space. Renovated from a century-old Kyoto townhouse, we stepped inside and were immediately enveloped by its dimly lit serenity. The air felt dense with reverence, as if the walls themselves whispered the stories of time. At the center of the gallery stood a sculpture resembling a weathered globe, its textured surface like a map of an imagined world. Around it, works by local artisans beckoned us into their universe – handwoven baskets, aged wood, and earthen vessels.

Another gallery that came highly recommended (and we can attest to this): Oud, named after the ancient incense. Outside, fiery Japanese maple framed the entrance, a vivid contrast to the gallery’s subdued interiors. Inside, weathered wood and earthy ceramics harmonized effortlessly, while a single leather shoe gleamed in the shadows. A sculptural desk lamp hinted at the Japanese mastery of elevating everyday objects into art.

A train ride away in Osaka prefecture lies Okina Glass, where inimitable hand-blown glassworks are created by artisans in their kiln.

”Works by local artisans beckoned us into their universe – handwoven baskets, aged wood, and earthen vessels.”

For dinner, we found ourselves at Tan, a tiny boutique restaurant tucked away in the Gion district. Inside, the cozy atmosphere buzzed with the energy of regulars who shared laughs with the chef while he seared fresh-caught tuna over open flames. One guest, a local writer, bridged our languages, translating stories and jokes as the evening unfolded. It was the kind of dining experience that transcends food – a gathering of strangers turned companions, united by a shared love of art, culture, and cuisine. Another place on our list was Farmoon, Kyoto’s most exciting restaurant led by artist-turned-chef Masayo Funakoshi, housed in a beautifully converted wooden machiya. Sadly, it was closed during our visit, but the stories surrounding it were enough to build our anticipation for next time.

”It was the kind of dining experience that transcends food – a gathering of strangers turned companions, united by a shared love of art, culture, and cuisine.”

To be in Japan is to indulge in its quintessential bath culture, a ritual that transcends mere relaxation. On the recommendation of Japanese friends, we made our way to Kokyu Spa, founded by the esteemed head therapist Chuuma-san, who greeted us in an elegant red linen dress. Situated off Nijo Teramachi, this serene spa and gallery space is a sanctuary devoted to the mind-body connection. We washed away the day’s weariness in mineral-rich waters, enveloped by the earthy scent of cedar and soft trails of rising steam from the onsen.

As we made our way back, we were invited to partake in one of Kyoto’s most timeless traditions — tea. At Yugen, a Japanese tea house and craft gallery, the essence of Kyoto’s charm came to life. The space featured textured walls that absorbed the soft light and a long, raw-edge timber bar that flowed through the room like a stream. The tea ceremony unfolded with slow, deliberate movements, each step mindful. The velvety matcha swirled in hand-thrown bowls, vivid as freshly turned earth. As we sipped the green brew, it felt like drinking in life itself — vibrant, fleeting, and soul-stirring.

”As we sipped the green brew, it felt like drinking in life itself — vibrant, fleeting, and soul-stirring.”

To Do

Stay

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

Galleries & Shops

Kankakari
Elbereth
Art & Science
Oud
POJ Studio
Kyo Amaharu
Essence Kyoto
Ru
Chosei Gallery

Dine

Farmoon
Tan
Lurra
Ototojet
Monk
Cenci

Cafe

Stardust
Wife & Husband

Tea

Yugen
Rust Sabi

Relax

Kokyu Spa
Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto Spa

Visit

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Tōfuku-ji Temple
Nanzen-ji
Shimogamo Shrine
To-ji Temple