Best for culture and cuisine…
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan with many of the country’s unique traditions originating in the ancient capital. It’s known for its famous geisha and World Heritage-listed temples, but Kyoto is a paradise for foodies. The city caused quite a stir at the end of 2009 when its first Michelin Guide awarded 87 of its restaurants with a total of 110 Michelin stars, proving that Kyoto really is a gourmet force to be reckoned with.
The first stop for food-loving newlyweds should be the Nishiki market. Affectionately known as ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’, this 400m-long covered arcade is lined with nearly 130 stalls and shops, selling the weird and wonderful.
When the sun goes down, there’s one place to head – Ponto-cho. This narrow cobbled street is crowded with cosy little izakayas (bars) and restaurants, dishing up servings of traditional favourites such as sushi, sukiyaki, and kushikatsu.
For a unique Kyoto experience, check into a ryokan (traditional Japanese guest house) and treat yourselves to an elaborate kaiseki banquet – a multi-course extravaganza of seasonal local flavours. Hiiragiya Ryokan – with its wooden corridors, bamboo screens and lacquered bathrooms – is a renowned ryokan and has played host to several visiting celebrities.
Be sure to also take a trip out to the leafy mountain of Mount Kurama, about 30 minutes from the centre of Kyoto. Here lies Hyoue – a picture-perfect spot where you can try amazing Japanese cuisine on a platform over a rushing waterfall.
Crushing on Kyoto? We’ve got plenty of tips on what to do and see on your Kyoto honeymoon here.
