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Kyoto

HANA-Kitcho is renowned for its exquisite kaiseki cuisine, attentive service, and elegant ambiance. Guests frequently commend the freshness and quality of the ingredients, as well as the meticulous presentation of each dish. The restaurant's location in Kyoto's geiko quarter adds to its charm, offering a unique cultural experience. While the dining experience is considered expensive, many patrons feel it is worth the price for the exceptional quality and service provided.

Discover the exquisite charm of hana-kitcho in kyoto's historic gion district.

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto's Higashiyama Ward, HANA-Kitcho offers an unparalleled kaiseki dining experience that beautifully marries tradition with refined elegance. Situated in the culturally rich Gion district, this Michelin-starred restaurant invites guests to ascend to its serene third-floor setting, where every detail—from the welcoming geisha-clad server to the tranquil private rooms—crafts an unforgettable culinary journey.

Exquisite kaiseki cuisine and impeccable service

HANA-Kitcho’s culinary mastery shines through its multi-course kaiseki meals that showcase the freshest seasonal ingredients with artistic plating. Diners delight in dishes such as delicately prepared garoupa fish in clear broth, fresh seafood selections including tuna and prawn, and celebratory rice dishes infused with red beans. The meticulous attention to detail extends to the serving style, where the rice is presented with gentle care ensuring a fluffy, soft texture.

The service at HANA-Kitcho is equally exceptional.

 Guests are greeted by servers dressed in traditional geisha attire, creating an authentic and intimate atmosphere. Whether enjoying a private room or the refined dining area, visitors appreciate the quiet and focused environment that enhances the overall experience.

HANA-Kitcho serves lunch and dinner, offering beautifully crafted courses that reflect Kyoto’s seasonal flavors. The experience is high-end, with a price point that matches the quality and service, making advance reservation essential. While the restaurant does not offer takeout or delivery, dine-in guests enjoy the full ambiance and attentiveness that define this establishment.

 with geisha-clad servers enhancing cultural authenticity.

 highlighting fresh seafood, vegetables, and traditional delicacies.

 offering peaceful ambiance ideal for focused dining.

Frequently asked questions about hana-kitcho

 There is no specific dress code; however, guests are encouraged to dress smart-casual.

 Parking is not available on-site; guests are advised to use public transportation or nearby parking facilities.

 Children are welcome, but children under six are not permitted at the counter seating.

The sentiment surrounding HANA-Kitcho is overwhelmingly positive. Diners praise the restaurant for its exceptional freshness, artful presentation, and courteous yet warm service. Located in Kyoto’s geiko quarter, it offers not only superb cuisine but also an authentic cultural experience rarely matched. While recognized as a splurge-worthy destination, many guests agree the quality justifies the price, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts and travelers seeking a memorable taste of Kyoto’s culinary heritage.

Asia

Japan

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto's historic Gion district, HANA-Kitcho offers an exquisite dining experience that transcends mere sustenance. This Michelin-starred restaurant invites guests to embark on a culinary journey through the traditional art of Kaiseki, where each dish is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted to reflect the seasons and the essence of Japanese culture. As you ascend to the third floor, you are greeted by a server dressed as a geisha, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening filled with elegance and authenticity.

The Kaiseki menu at HANA-Kitcho is a symphony of flavors and textures, featuring standout dishes like the delicate crab topped with ginger and seasonal vegetables, beautifully presented to delight the eyes as much as the palate. Another highlight is the garoupa fish served in a clear broth, showcasing the chef's skill in balancing simplicity with sophistication. Each course is thoughtfully paired with premium sake, such as the renowned Kitcho Teio, enhancing the overall dining experience.


- Crab dish with ginger topping
- Garoupa fish in clear broth
- Seasonal seafood platter with tuna and prawn
- Rice with red bean, a celebratory dish
- Dessert: clear jelly with mango and grapes.

Located at 3-2 Yamatocho in the Higashiyama Ward of Kyoto, HANA-Kitcho is perfectly positioned for those wishing to explore the rich cultural heritage of the area. Nearby, you can visit iconic landmarks such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the historic streets of Gion, where you might catch a glimpse of a geisha. The serene atmosphere of the neighborhood complements the refined dining experience at HANA-Kitcho, making it an ideal stop for food enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.


HANA-Kitcho is renowned for its exquisite Kaiseki dining experience, showcasing seasonal ingredients and traditional Japanese culinary techniques.


Visiting HANA-Kitcho offers a unique opportunity to indulge in a Michelin-starred dining experience in a culturally rich setting, complete with attentive service and beautifully presented dishes.

What is the best way to make a reservation?


It is recommended to book in advance, especially for dinner, to ensure you secure a table at this popular establishment.

For those seeking a truly memorable dining experience in Kyoto, HANA-Kitcho is a must-visit. With its exquisite dishes, attentive service, and cultural ambiance, it promises an evening of culinary delight that you will cherish forever. Book your table today and immerse yourself in the art of Kaiseki dining.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIX3VxT0p3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJI-P4dpwIAWAR__cHhdAO5-E/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIX3VxT0p3EAE

Located in Gion , this one Michelin star restaurant requires taking a lift up to the third floor which will welcome by a server that was dressed as  a geisha.

It would be classed as as a Kaiseki style meal.

We had our own private room which was an amazing experience. It was quiet, private and enjoyable.

We had pre-booked the menu that we want to which was the eighth course the menu pretty much started in full swing within five minutes of rival Will given a complimentary super to start off with and we ordered our sake which was well priced and tasted excellent, which was called kitcho teio and we also had the Sakura- Akashi layer: also very nice

Food started with a a crab dish with some vegetables ginger topping, which was beautiful presented.

To make fish was a garoupa fish in a clear broth which was also very nice dish beautifully cook fish and this was followed by three types of seafood, tuna, prawn and a whitefish which I think might be flounder with two sources. The prawn head could be eaten as it was fried and tested very nice the fish and the prawn was very fresh.

This was followed by a rice with red bean in it which was supposed to be the celebratory birthday dish.

This is followed by the fish dish  which came in a house and a boat presented with some summer flowers with eel eggs and a salad the side and three passcode fried items of scallop eel and Edamame and a sweet potato. All very tasted very good.

Which of the seabass came with a beautifully glazed tomato and lightly battered okra. The fish was cook beautifully with some teriyaki sauce.

The after main was the filler upper ,  which was rice with sweetcorn and miso soup with some pickles vegetable
Rice with piece battered fish with the sweetcorn and the soy sauce with poured into the rice to enhance the taste.

Dessert was a clear jelly fruits of mango and grapes in it with a mango with a beautiful design jelly and mint top. After this tea was served again.

The service was excellent. We had a lady dress of a geisha serving as food and we were in a private room which was wonderfully private and we can focus on the food distraction externally.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURlOWZtR29BRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJI-P4dpwIAWAR__cHhdAO5-E/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURlOWZtR29BRRAB

Polite yet friendly staff and exceptional food. They are accommodating for menu preferences if you call ahead and explain. Anyway you will need to book in advance as it is deservingly popular. Not your typical Kyoto restaurant, and the service is so incredibly kind and inviting.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNoa3VpX01BEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJI-P4dpwIAWAR__cHhdAO5-E/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNoa3VpX01BEAE

Exquisite kaiseiki dishes with pleasant plating. The server was very careful when serving each dish. In particular, she served the rice with great attention and a gentle gesture so as not to compress the rice at all. The result was a really fluffy, soft, and tasty rice dish.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNBN3EtckJREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJI-P4dpwIAWAR__cHhdAO5-E/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNBN3EtckJREAE

We consider ourselves fortunate to have managed a dinner reservation on short notice at this restaurant.  Indeed, it was memorable. Amongst our favorites: warm sakura blossom tea, scallop and uni in vinegar, small rice dish with clam, raw saury with ginger, marinated cube of beef tongue with red pepper, grilled ayu, and steamed Nigata steamed white rice with thin slices of tamago and dried shrimp.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQdW8yUVJ3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJI-P4dpwIAWAR__cHhdAO5-E/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQdW8yUVJ3EAE

Man I don’t think for a second all the other reviewers for the place doesn’t it justice I honestly think that people that’s given it one star don’t know food at all seriously, never been the type to review food on Google review but wow it’s most definitely worth from the staff to the food nothing short of amazing best meal I’ve had in Japan. We will be back to try the omakase!

Michelin Star Kaiseki Dining at HANA-Kitcho in Kyoto

HANA-Kitcho is a prestigious kaiseki restaurant located in Kyoto's geiko quarter, known for its traditional Japanese cuisine and elegant ambiance.

Hana-Kitcho: A Timeless Jewel of Kyoto's Kaiseki Cuisine 

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto's enchanting geiko quarter, HANA-Kitcho stands as a beacon of refined Japanese culinary tradition. This prestigious kaiseki restaurant has garnered widespread acclaim for its exquisite seasonal dishes, meticulous presentation, and the serene elegance that envelops every dining experience.

Since its inception, HANA-Kitcho has continually elevated Kyoto's dining scene with its dedication to kaiseki cuisine—a multi-course Japanese dinner that harmonizes taste, texture, appearance, and colors. The restaurant's journey has been marked by important achievements that highlight its commitment to excellence and innovation.

HANA-Kitcho was awarded its first Michelin star, affirming its status as a top destination for kaiseki dining in Kyoto.

The restaurant introduced counter seating, enriching the intimate dining experience and allowing guests to admire the chefs’ artistry up close.

HANA-Kitcho celebrated its 5th anniversary, continuing to captivate food enthusiasts with its masterful kaiseki creations and exceptional hospitality.

Beyond its accolades, HANA-Kitcho offers a deeply immersive cultural experience. Guests are often welcomed in a setting reminiscent of Kyoto’s elegant traditions, sometimes greeted by servers in geisha-inspired attire. The private rooms and exquisite plating elevate the meal into an artful journey, making it a treasured spot for both locals and visitors seeking authentic Japanese haute cuisine.

HANA-Kitcho’s menu showcases seasonal ingredients prepared with precision and creativity, offering dishes like delicately cooked seafood, celebratory rice with red beans, and artistically crafted desserts.

The elegant setting in Kyoto’s historic Gion district provides a serene backdrop, enhanced by attentive service that honors Japanese hospitality traditions.

Each dish is served with care and precision, such as the carefully handled rice that remains fluffy and soft, embodying the highest standards of Japanese cooking artistry.

Dine In

Restroom

Reservable

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

In the heart of Kyoto's historic Higashiyama Ward, HANA-Kitcho beckons food lovers into a realm where culinary artistry meets traditional elegance. This charming establishment is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience that embodies centuries of Japanese gastronomic culture. Designed with an intimate ambiance, the soothing tones of natural wood and carefully placed shoji screens create a tranquil setting that encourages you to savor each moment. Guests at HANA-Kitcho can indulge in exquisite kaiseki meals, artfully prepared to highlight the seasonal bounty of Japan. Each dish tells a story, presenting a harmonious blend of color, flavor, and texture that reflects the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The meticulous preparation and presentation evoke a sense of celebration, truly showcasing Kyoto's rich culinary heritage. The location is a perfect launching pad for exploration; after relishing a meal infused with tradition, you can wander the nearby iconic streets of Higashiyama, home to stunning temples and picturesque gardens. HANA-Kitcho captures the essence of Kyoto — a place where time-honored traditions, breathtaking natural beauty, and innovative culinary practices converge to offer an unforgettable journey for the senses.

HANA-Kitcho

HANA-Kitcho offers a selection of seasonal à la carte dishes, including sashimi, stone-grilled items, soups, tempura, grilled dishes, and rice specialties. Prices range from ¥1,265 to ¥6,325.

Sashimi Platter

Stone-Grilled Items

Prawn Dumpling Soup

Marusui Soft-Shell Turtle Soup

Marunabe Soft-Shell Turtle Hot Pot

Rolled Egg Omelet

Japanese Tiger Prawn Vinegared Dish

Seasonal Delicacies Platter

Tempura Assortment

Grilled Unagi Eel

Salt-Grilled Amadai Tilefish

Murasawa-Gyu Mini Beef Sukiyaki

Steamed Savory Egg Custard

Freshly Steamed White Rice

Rice Topped with Chicken and Egg

Rice Topped with Marinated Beef and Beaten Egg (Omi Beef)

Amadai Tilefish Rice

Maruzosui Soft-Shell Turtle Rice Porridge

Assortment of Pickles

À La Carte Menu

Experience the exquisite à la carte menu at HANA-Kitcho

Nestled in the historic Higashiyama Ward of Kyoto, HANA-Kitcho presents an extraordinary dining experience that celebrates the art of Japanese cuisine with its seasonal à la carte menu. Ideal for food enthusiasts and discerning travelers seeking authentic Kyoto flavors, the menu skillfully balances tradition and refinement, offering a variety of carefully curated dishes that captivate both the palate and the eye.

Begin your culinary journey with delicate starters that showcase the freshest seasonal ingredients. The 

 offers delicate prawn dumplings immersed in a flavorful broth, setting a refined tone for the meal. For those seeking something truly unique, the 

 delivers rich, savory depth with tender soft-shell turtle meat in a comforting broth. Explore a seasonal 

 presenting an assortment of thoughtfully selected appetizers, or savor the elegantly fluffy 

 adds a tangy twist with tiger prawns marinated in a refreshing vinegar-based sauce.

The mains at HANA-Kitcho highlight the finest ingredients and meticulous preparation methods that define Japanese haute cuisine. Dive into the 

, featuring an array of assorted fresh sashimi slices artfully presented to showcase their pristine quality. For a savory and interactive experience, the 

 invite you to enjoy a variety of meats and vegetables grilled to perfection right at your table. The 

 is a succulent miniature hot pot showcasing premium Murasawa beef simmered in a delicate sukiyaki broth. Seafood lovers will delight in the 

 glazed with a sweet soy-based sauce, both cooked to perfection. Complement your meal with the 

, a crunchy selection of seasonal vegetables and seafood that delightfully contrast textures. Traditional rice dishes like the 

 offer comforting, flavorful finishes to the main courses.

, a silky custard that harmonizes subtle savory flavors in every spoonful. After dessert, enjoy a moment of calm with a carefully brewed cup of tea, perfectly rounding out this refined dining experience.

 – tender soft-shell turtle pieces simmered with fresh seasonal vegetables in a hot pot, offering a unique delight.

 – a comforting rice porridge enriched with soft-shell turtle, showcasing seasonal finesse.

 – a traditional variety of Japanese pickles to enhance and cleanse the palate.

Experience exquisite dining at HANA-Kitcho in Kyoto! Savor traditional Japanese cuisine in the heart of Higashiyama. Book your culinary adventure today!

HANA-Kitcho: Exquisite Dining in Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto City

A traditional multi-course meal featuring seasonal ingredients and meticulous preparation.

Kaiseki Course Cuisine

Enhance your dining experience with a selection of three teas paired with the kaiseki course.

Japanese Tea Pairing with Kaiseki Course

Hana-Kitcho: exquisite kaiseki dining in Kyoto's heart of Gion.

Nestled in the historic Higashiyama Ward of Kyoto, Japan, 

 offers an unparalleled culinary journey through traditional kaiseki cuisine. Located on the third floor in the atmospheric Gion district, this one Michelin-starred restaurant combines meticulous seasonal ingredients with exceptional presentation and service.

At Hana-Kitcho, diners can indulge in a traditional multi-course kaiseki meal that highlights the essence of Japanese culinary artistry. Priced at around 10,000 JPY, this offering showcases a succession of beautifully crafted dishes including delicacies like fresh crab with ginger, garoupa fish in clear broth, assorted sashimi, and delicately glazed seabass with teriyaki sauce. Each plate is a harmonious blend of texture, flavor, and seasonality, served with precision and grace.

 rooms elevate the experience, offering a serene setting where guests are personally attended by servers dressed as traditional geishas, adding an authentic cultural touch that enhances the quiet and intimate atmosphere.

exclusive tea pairing for an elevated meal

For those seeking a truly immersive dining experience, Hana-Kitcho offers an exceptional Japanese Tea Pairing with the kaiseki course for approximately 28,000 JPY. This pairing features a curated selection of three exquisite teas thoughtfully matched to complement each course, enhancing the subtle flavors and aromas of the meal.

 – Book well in advance to secure your spot in this popular Kyoto gem.

 – The experience is designed for dine-in only to preserve quality and ambiance.

 – Accepts credit, debit cards and NFC payments for convenience.

 – Sake, beer, and wine complement the delicate flavors of the courses.

Hana-Kitcho stands out for its impeccable fusion of cultural tradition and gourmet excellence. The attentive service, including servers dressed as geishas, private rooms, and artistically plated dishes, creates an unforgettable dining event. Guests praise the restaurant for its polite yet friendly staff, accommodating nature for dietary preferences (with prior notice), and an ambiance that invites complete focus on the meal without distractions.

Whether you are a food lover seeking authentic Kaiseki cuisine or a traveler eager to experience Kyoto's refined dining culture, Hana-Kitcho promises a sophisticated and memorable journey into Japanese culinary arts.

 – 3-2 Yamatochō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan 605-0802, in the prestigious Gion district.

 – Serves lunch and dinner; booking ahead is essential.

 – Access via elevator to third floor, ensures comfort for diners.

Kyoto Prefecture

Discover HANA-Kitcho in Kyoto's Gion district for exquisite Kaiseki cuisine, private dining, and top-rated Japanese hospitality. Book your experience now!

Kyoto HANA-Kitcho: Luxury Kaiseki Experience in Gion

Enjoy authentic Kaiseki at Kyoto's HANA-Kitcho, offering seasonal dishes, private rooms, and an elegant ambiance in Higashiyama Ward. Reserve today!

Kyoto HANA-Kitcho: Authentic Kaiseki & Private Dining

Experience top-tier Kaiseki restaurant in Kyoto’s Higashiyama Ward. Fresh seasonal ingredients, exceptional service, and cultural elegance await. Book now!

Shinmonzen Yonemura

Kodaiji Wakuden

Tominokoji Yamagishi