Japan’s very own Kyoto has recently been voted the world’s top travel destination by readers of Travel and Leisure magazine. Renowned for the unparalelled beauty of its zen gardens and cherry blossom trees, Kyoto is now being recognised for its cutting-edge ryokans.
For those of you who have no idea what a ryokan is, let us explain: a ryokan is simply a Japanese inn. A typical ryokan would invariably feature tatami flooring, sliding doors and delightful hot spring bathing areas. Not just defined by its décor, your ryokan experience is completed by traditional Japanese cuisine Kaiseki, a multi-course meal that includes small, tapas-style dishes using regional and seasonal ingredients, perfect for sharing. However, in Kyoto the standard ryokans are now being gloriously re-imagined to cater for those after a more modern and traditional experience.
Plus, if you’re a real foodie, you might be interested to know that Kyoto is also home to the most expensive restaurant in the world. Our very own Heston Blumenthal has described his dining experience as ‘extraordinary,’ though if you were to dine here then the chances are you’d be paying around the region of $600 for a meal and drink. Pricey stuff, indeed.