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ANoTHER IMPERIAL HOTEL: A Unique Cultural Experience in Kyoto

The ANoTHER IMPERIAL HOTEL, an online marketplace curated by the Imperial Hotel, is set to unveil a one-night-only special event that celebrates Japan's rich traditional culture. This exclusive gathering, dubbed "Mijikayo Hatsuhotaru (Short Night's First Firefly) - An Enchanted Tea Ceremony amidst Light and Darkness," invites just 20 guests to immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere of the longstanding Ayunoyado Tsutaya, a traditional Japanese inn located in Sagatoriimoto, Kyoto, on June 6, 2026.

Begin your journey on March 25, when registration opens for this unique experience. The event will feature a tea ceremony led by renowned tea master, Kimura Soshin, alongside seasonal dishes crafted with ayu (sweetfish). Attendees will also have the opportunity to enjoy the enchanting sight of fireflies against the background of early summer twilight, providing a perfect backdrop for this cultural outing.

Unveiling the Tradition

For nearly 400 years, the Ayunoyado Tsutaya has been a steward of the culinary traditions that surround the river culture of Kyoto. The establishment's deep-seated history, once serving as a resting place for ayu destined for the imperial court, forms the core of its ethos. Guests will savor traditional preparations of ayu, from sashimi to grilled varieties, all served under the storied thatched roof of this historical building.

Chef Kimura shares his philosophy surrounding the tea ceremony: "Eating and drinking in the evening during the hazy early summer is a luxurious indulgence that has been cherished for generations. This year, I encourage guests to surrender to the atmosphere and experience the refined pleasures that tea culture offers, without any prior expertise."

Event Details

• - Event Name: JAPANESE ESSENCE SALON "Mijikayo Hatsuhotaru - An Enchanted Tea Ceremony"
• - Date and Time: June 6, 2026 (Saturday) from 16:30 to 20:30 (registration opens at 16:00)
• - Location: Ayunoyado Tsutaya, Kyoto
• - Price: 170,000 yen (tax included) per person
• - Availability: Limited to 20 participants (minimum of 10 attendees required to proceed)
• - Purchase Period: Starting March 25, 2026, at 10:00 until spots are filled.
• - Website for Registration: ANoTHER IMPERIAL HOTEL

A Night to Savor

The night's program will unfold as follows -
1. 16:00: Guests arrive and are greeted by the serene sounds of the Hozu River.
2. 16:30: Introduction to the evening's theme, along with a talk by tea master Kimura Soshin.
3. 17:00: A tea ceremony that combines both thick and thin teas, tailored to embody the essence of early summer.
4. 17:45: Indulge in a specially prepared kaiseki meal featuring seasonal ingredients in a tranquil setting.
5. 19:45: Conclude the evening with a breathtaking view of dancing fireflies in the garden, providing a picturesque end to a night filled with cultural appreciation.

Insight into ANoTHER IMPERIAL HOTEL

The online platform aims to bridge the gap between tradition and contemporary consumers by offering diverse Japanese products that tell the stories of their makers. Committed to creating unique cultural experiences through curated content, the ANoTHER IMPERIAL HOTEL is ready to unveil more sumptuous programs this year to celebrate its first anniversary with the theme of experiencing traditional Japanese culture through all five senses.

The first step in this journey begins in Kyoto, where guests can relish in the beautiful integration of history, culture, and culinary excellence exclusively available through ANoTHER IMPERIAL HOTEL. For ongoing updates, you can follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and official website.