Cultural Experiences

Kyoto isn't just an ancient city, it was also Japan's Imperial Capital for over a thousand years, thus making it a major hub for the nation's culture and arts. This is easily seen from the intricate details of the city's historic sights and sites. The UNESCO World Heritage Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto is a collection of the city's most beautiful and impactful landmarks. The nearby Buddhist temple of To-ji is counted among these historic monuments, and its five-story pagoda is known as the tallest wooden structure in Kyoto. Other monuments easily accessible from Akebono an Machiya include Yasaka Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera.

On your excursion to Kiyomizu-dera and Yasaka Shrine, be sure to visit the historic neighborhoods of Higashiyama District. Its streets are lined with well-preserved machiya that still serve their original purpose as shops and dining establishments.

Book Venue

Bowing (ojigi): It's advisable to bow to show respect when greeting someone. It can also be done to show gratitude or convey an apology.
Shoe etiquette: You must remove your outside footwear before stepping on the elevated area of the genkan (entrance) and entering a house. You should also ensure not to step on the lower area of the genkan without your shoes on. Shoes must be kept facing the entrance. If you wear socks, they should be clean and without any holes.
Slipper etiquette: It's usually better to wear fresh socks or slippers inside the house, especially for formal situations. Make sure to remove your slippers before stepping into a room with tatami mats on the floor. There should also be a separate set of slippers for the washroom.
Dining etiquette: How you hold and place your chopsticks while dining is crucial. For example, they shouldn't be held upright when eating rice. You must also place them on a holder when you're not using them. It's good to say "Itadakimasu" before starting a meal and "Gochisousama deshita" after completing it.
Tipping etiquette: Tipping isn't a common practice in Japan and may be considered rude.
Luggage etiquette: Luggage, especially those with wheels, should be carried instead of being dragged across the floor as it might damage the tatami mats or wooden flooring.
Photography etiquette: Photography rules can change from place to place, so make sure to check for signs or ask the staff before taking pictures anywhere.
Queueing etiquette: Make sure to maintain queues and never cut in line.
Onsen etiquette: Some onsens don't allow tattoos, so check with the staff before getting into one. You must also shower and be clean before entering a shared onsen bath.
Bathing etiquette: Japanese baths include separate areas for washing while the tub itself is meant only for soaking. This means bathers must first wash, scrub, and rinse themselves before entering the bath tub.