Recommendations

Other Local Tips

teamLab Biovortex Kyoto – Step into a World of Immersive Art

teamLab Biovortex Kyoto is a spectacular digital art museum where art, technology, light, sound, and nature come together. Unlike a traditional museum, the artworks respond to your presence and movements, allowing you to become part of the experience itself.
Explore vast, dreamlike spaces filled with flowing light, floating sculptures, and constantly changing digital landscapes. With more than 50 immersive artworks spread across approximately 10,000 square metres, every room offers something new and surprising.

It is a wonderful experience for couples, families, solo travellers, and anyone looking to discover a modern and imaginative side of Kyoto. Located within walking distance of Kyoto Station, it is also easy to include in your sightseeing itinerary.
Our tip: Allow at least two hours to explore, wear comfortable shoes, and book your tickets in advance, as popular time slots may sell out.

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Shoren-in Temple Special Summer Night Illumination

Special Evening Admission – “Blue Lotus Summer Lights”

*Event Period
July 17 (Fri) – August 23 (Sun), 2026
Closed: August 13 (Thu) – August 16 (Sun)

*Opening Hours
7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
(Last admission: 9:00 PM)

*Admission
Adults: ¥1,500
Elementary school children: ¥1,000

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Green Tea

We recommend green tea in the Recommendations shop section, but if you’re looking for an easy option to pick up at a supermarket, this is our top choice.
It’s made by one of Japan’s most well known tea brands one that virtually every Japanese person recognizes.

The tea comes in a convenient powder form that dissolves instantly, even in cold water, making it perfect for everyday use.
This is also the green tea we serve to our guests during our workshops, and it’s always a favorite🍵
We hope you’ll give it a try and enjoy a taste of Japan.

Try Japanese Melon Pan

One of the most popular treats among our guests is Melon Pan.
Despite its name, it doesn’t actually contain melon.
It got its name because the crispy cookie like topping looks similar to the pattern of a melon.
You can find Melon Pan at most convenience stores, but we recommend trying one from a local bakery where it’s freshly baked that day, it tastes so much better!

Kyoto is famous for having one of the highest numbers of bakeries in Japan, and people in Kyoto absolutely love bread. You’ll find wonderful bakeries all over the city, and it’s hard to go wrong with any of them.
If you happen to spot a bakery during your stay, be sure to stop in and try a freshly baked Melon Pan.
We hope you’ll love it!

🏪 What Should You Try at a Japanese Convenience Store?

Japanese convenience stores are famous for their surprisingly delicious and high quality food.
Here are some of our favorite recommendations!

🍙 Onigiri (Rice Balls)Onigiri is one of the most popular foods among Japanese because it’s tasty, affordable, and easy to eat on the go.

If it’s your first time, we recommend:
*Tuna Mayo 🥇
*Shrimp Mayo 🍤
Mayo=mayonnaise/Japanese mayonnaise has a milder, creamier flavor than mayonnaise in many other countries.

You might also see Umeboshi (pickled plum). It’s very sour and has a unique flavor, so it can be a bit challenging if you’re trying onigiri for the first time!

🍗 Other Must Try Snacks
* Karaage-kun from LAWSON Bite-sized fried chicken that’s a Japanese favorite.

*Famichiki from FamilyMart – Crispy, juicy fried chicken that’s perfect for a quick snack.

*Japanese Egg Sandwich
Soft bread with creamy egg filling. It’s simple, but many visitors say it’s one of the best sandwiches they’ve ever had!

If you’re feeling a little hungry while exploring Japan, you can’t go wrong with any of these:)

Mini Lesson

Arigatou/ Arigato = Thank you
Sumimasen= Excuse me
Konnichiwa=Hello
Oishii= Delicious
Kawaii=Cute

💡 “Sumimasen” is one of the most useful Japanese words you can learn.
You can use it to:
Get someone’s attention,
Politely ask someone to move
Say “excuse me”,
Apologize for a small mistake
You’ll probably find yourself using it many times during your trip!