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Weddings in the Heart of Japan at Park Hyatt Kyoto

CATEGORIES

October 29, 2024
Words by Hope O'Brien
Photos courtesy of Park Hyatt Kyoto

Asia is a sought-after destination for weddings and honeymoons, with Japan often topping the list. While the big cities each boast breathtaking views, Kyoto, the former capital of Japan, stands as one of the country’s cultural hearts. Nestled in the romantic and historic streets of the Higashiyama District, the Park Hyatt Kyoto provides a unique setting for a destination wedding.

Love in the Higashiyama Streets

After opening in October 2019, it wasn’t long before the name “Park Hyatt Kyoto” became synonymous with the luxury and beauty Kyoto offers. Whether you wish to fully embrace Japanese culture or blend in elements of your own, the Park Hyatt Kyoto has perfected the art of weddings far from home. The hotel boasts some of the best views in Kyoto and combines harmonious architecture with the city’s iconic landmarks.

For your big day, the hotel’s magnificent spaces are ideal for an intimate ceremony with up to 80 guests. Picture this: you and your closest loved ones enjoying a completely personalized experience that immerses you in both the luxury and culture of picturesque Higashiyama. It’s nearly impossible not to fall for the stunning views around every corner of the property!

In the Heart of Culture

There is something magical about the grounds that the Park Hyatt Kyoto was built on. Kyoyamato, a Japanese teahouse and kaiseki course restaurant, was founded in Osaka in 1877, with a second location opened in Higashiyama after WWII. This teahouse, which has now served seven generations of Japanese political and business leaders and holds a Michelin star, is nestled within the modern hotel built with traditional Japanese techniques.

Just outside the hotel grounds are landmarks and spaces that span centuries of Japanese history. Whether it’s world-renowned temples like Kodai-ji or Kiyomizu-dera, or streets lined with traditional teahouses, pottery shops, and restaurants, the Park Hyatt Kyoto is just steps away from everything that makes Kyoto such a vibrant and historic city.

Breathtaking Accommodations

The Park Hyatt Kyoto offers 70 rooms, including nine suites, with each one designed for stunning views through private terraces or gardens. We were lucky enough to tour the suites, and the hotel’s most luxurious Pagoda House exceeded every expectation, from its amenities to its views.

 

The room includes a bedroom, living room, kitchen, and spacious bathroom, providing a serene space for the couple to unwind both before and after their big day. Beyond the grandeur of the design, inspired by the nearby mountains, is a view unique to the Park Hyatt Kyoto. As you step into the Pagoda House, floor-to-ceiling windows greet you with an exclusive view of the famous Yasaka Pagoda and a panoramic front-row seat to sunsets over the historic streets of Kyoto.

Curated for You

Now, let’s talk weddings—because that’s what you’re here for! The wedding experience with Park Hyatt Kyoto is carefully curated to meet your exact needs. From the moment you contact the hotel’s team, your personalized wedding plan begins. Culture is a focal point for many couples, and the Park Hyatt Kyoto team embraces this. Whether you’re planning a traditional wedding or want to incorporate Japanese traditions like a kimono and tea ceremony, they can make your dreams a reality.

From grand details to the smallest touches, every aspect is considered. At the Park Hyatt Kyoto, you can choose from multiple spaces across the grounds for different parts of your celebration, including the ballroom, the bistro’s private room, and the terrace. Plus, you’ll have access to the property’s stunning backdrops for your photo shoot!

A World of Cuisine

The culinary experience at the Park Hyatt Kyoto is vast, offering options that satisfy every craving and cultural preference. The hotel is home to six bars, restaurants, and bistros. Yasaka, the signature restaurant, serves teppanyaki with French techniques against the backdrop of the famous Yasaka Pagoda. The historic Michelin-starred Kyoyamato restaurant on the hotel grounds specializes in traditional, seasonally inspired kaiseki cuisine.

The Living Room, at the heart of the Park Hyatt Kyoto, curates a five-course afternoon tea menu with carefully selected teas and snacks, while its Wine Bar offers top-tier cheese and wine pairings in the luxurious setting.

Our favorite, Kyoto Bistro, is the hotel’s casual dining restaurant styled as a quiet streetside café. This cozy space serves both international and Japanese comfort foods, along with fusion dishes made from locally sourced, organic ingredients. Its relaxed ambiance and views of Higashiyama make it an ideal spot for a welcome dinner!

For intimate pre- or post-wedding events, Kohaku, a bar adjacent to Yasaka, offers rare spirits and craft products. With floor-to-ceiling windows, the bar’s view of the Yasaka Pagoda is unmatched, day or night.

Activities and Amenities

With a range of relaxing and rejuvenating spaces and activities, the Park Hyatt Kyoto is perfect for a gentle and intimate wedding getaway.

The hotel’s gender-specific and complimentary bathhouses offer a unique taste of Japanese relaxation. Complete with warm and ice baths, they allow guests to experience Japanese bath culture in a luxurious and intimate setting.

The hotel also provides both on- and off-property activities to suit every guest. Whether you prefer a curated afternoon tea or wine tasting, or an adventurous rickshaw ride through Higashiyama’s streets, the Park Hyatt Kyoto offers it all.

One of the most indulgent experiences is The Spa Treatment, held in a private suite with an adjoining relaxation lounge. This experience includes authentic therapies, Japanese rituals, and signature essential oils and is tailored seasonally to capture the spirit of Kyoto.

Venues That Will Stun

Imagine the sun setting over the stunning Higashiyama streets as you exchange vows against the backdrop of the iconic Yasaka Pagoda. If that caught your eye, the Park Hyatt Kyoto’svenues are exactly what you’re looking for. Created for an intimate and memorable day, each space was curated with breathtaking backdrops in mind. It’s worth noting that the best time to wed in Kyoto is between March and June, as other seasons can bring unpredictable weather.

The Park Hyatt Kyoto is a dream destination for spring and early summer weddings. Its blend of luxury and cultural immersion in Higashiyama exceeds all expectations. Whether you’re drawn to Japanese culture or simply seeking a dream wedding, the team and spaces at the Park Hyatt Kyoto will make your Japan wedding truly unforgettable.

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