Kikunoi Honten
Third-generation chef Yoshihiro Murata’s kaiseki house in Higashiyama, near Yasaka Shrine and Kodai-ji, with roots as a ryotei since 1912. The Michelin Guide Kyoto Osaka lists Kikunoi Honten among the city’s three-star references; lunch is usually the more attainable first visit than dinner. Official service windows centre on lunch from noon and dinner from late afternoon, with closures commonly on the first and third Tuesdays plus New Year. International guests typically book via hotel concierge or English platforms such as Pocket Concierge; direct phone is +81-75-561-0015. Confirm seasonal menus and private-room rules before locking dates.
- Address
- 459 Shimokawara-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0825, Japan
- Official website
- Visit site ↗
- Country
- Japan
While you're there
Shimokawara in Higashiyama puts Kodai-ji and Ninenzaka within a slow post-lunch walk if legs allow. Stay at Park Hyatt Kyoto to avoid crossing town afterward. Book months ahead, and leave the afternoon empty after kaiseki.
Pro Tip: Book lunch if your Kyoto nights are already spoken for; the Shimokawara daytime kaiseki leaves you daylight for Ninenzaka, and dinner forces a dark walk home when you only want sleep.
- Best for
- Three-star Higashiyama kaiseki when the hillside is already home base.
- Pair with
- Park Hyatt Kyoto to avoid crossing town afterward.
- Season / timing
- Book months ahead for cherry blossom and autumn maple seasons.