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Experience the Serenity of Zen at Hotel Granvia Kyoto

Nestled away from the city's hustle and bustle, Hotel Granvia Kyoto offers its guests a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the tranquility of Kyoto's cultural heritage. Starting now, guests staying on the exclusive 14th and 15th floors of the hotel, known as the Granvia Floor, can enjoy a special guided viewing of the Tokuyuan at the Ikkyuji Temple, a historically rich site in Kyotanabe City.

Tokuyuan, a stunning tea room built in the Muromachi period, is closely associated with the famous Zen monk Ikkyu Sojun, affectionately known as “Ikkyu-san.” This beautiful structure showcases elegant wooden architecture and offers breathtaking views of the garden framed by the delicate branches of plum trees, revealing the beauty of each season like painted artwork.

The surrounding garden is a designated national scenic spot known as the Zen Garden, attributed to the tea ceremony pioneer Murata Jukou. From the serene tea house, one can experience the essence of “Cha-Zen-Ichimi,” the harmonious blend of tea and Zen philosophy pursued by the cultured individuals of the past. It is a chance to reflect and meditate on the peaceful space that retains its original charm since Ikkyu Zenji’s time.

Tokuyuan Special Viewing Highlights

The guided tour includes the chance to view the important cultural property known as the Hojoten Garden, which can be admired from the Hojō, the main hall of the temple. The garden features diverse styles of rock gardens created collaboratively by renowned figures of the early Edo period: Ishikawa Jozan, Shokado Shojo, and Sagawada Kiroku. Visitors will be enthralled by the distinct beauty each of these gardens presents. After the tour, guests can indulge in a special sweet known as “zenzai,” which holds historical significance tied to Ikkyu Zenji, who reportedly praised this warm dessert of sweet red bean soup with mochi as “Yoki Kana Kono Shiru”—a phrase signifying beauty and serenity.

Tokuyuan Viewing Experience Details

• - What’s Included: A guided tour of Tokuyuan and a serving of zenzai at the tea room, with a chilled version available in summer.
• - Price: 30,000 yen per group (up to 5 people).
• - Viewing Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Treasury Hall: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM).
• - Reservations: Must be made at least a week in advance.

Sample Itinerary (Approx. 1 hour)

• - 10:20 AM: Arrival and registration at Ikkyuji Temple.
• - 10:30 - 10:50 AM: Special viewing of Tokuyuan.
• - 10:50 - 11:10 AM: Viewing of Hojoten Garden and statue of Ikkyu Zenji.
• - 11:10 - 11:30 AM: Savoring zenzai at the tea room.
• - 11:30 AM: Free exploration of the temple grounds.

Additional Information

• - Reservations must be made up to a week prior to your visit.
• - Entrance fee is payable on the day of the visit at the temple reception.
• - Kindly notify the hotel of any cancellations at least two days in advance to avoid a cancellation fee of 50% of the experience cost.
• - Please arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled time for entrance.
• - Pets are not allowed, and visitors should refrain from wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or going barefoot.

About Ikkyuji Temple

Ikkyuji Temple is a renowned site that has captivated visitors since the Edo period. It is the temple where Ikkyu Sojun spent his later years, characterized by its beautiful rock gardens reflecting the essence of Zen culture and history. Visitors can explore countless historical artifacts and important cultural properties that embody a spirit of tranquility.
Located at: 102 Sakini no Uchi, Kyotanabe, Kyoto Prefecture.

More About Hotel Granvia Kyoto

Connected directly to JR Kyoto Station, Hotel Granvia Kyoto features 541 rooms alongside a diverse selection of dining options and spacious banquet facilities, making it a favorable location for travelers. The exclusive Granvia Floor offers stunning views of Kyoto and elevated hotel experiences.
Located at: Karasuma-dori, Shijo-sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto.

Unique Experiences at Hotel Granvia Kyoto

Every guest can immerse themselves in the culture and traditions of Kyoto through tailored programs involving temples, arts, and local crafts. Let Hotel Granvia Kyoto's concierge help you uncover these unique local experiences.

For more details, visit: Hotel Granvia Kyoto Experiences