Vladislav Doronin: Events in Kyoto

Vladislav Doronin, OKO Group CEO, is also the chairman, owner and CEO of Aman Group, leading a company that has pioneered the ultra-luxury resort and residence market.

This article will look at Aman’s exceptional location in Kyoto, Japan, as well as providing an overview of local events within comfortable reach of Aman Kyoto.

Hidden away in a secret garden, which itself is surrounded by forestland, Aman Kyoto lies a stone’s throw from 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in total, including the world famous golden Kinkaku-ji Temple.

With pavilions set in tranquil glades boasting light-filled suites, the resort is perfect for those seeking solitude, with its private onsen and healing spa presenting the ultimate wellness experience.

Aman Kyoto’s hidden gardens are the starting point for countless inspirational journeys into the secrets of this ancient imperial capital, with numerous awe-inspiring sites within easy reach. In addition to temples, guests at Aman Kyoto also enjoy privileged access to transformative cultural encounters that are beyond the reach of most travellers.

During the early Edo period, the Takagamine area of Kyoto was home to the world-famous craftsman and calligrapher Hon’ami Koetsu. Born in 1558, throughout the course of his lifetime, Koetsu established Kyoto as a centre for arts and culture, paving the way for the creation of the art village of Takagamine in 1615.

Today, the site is home to Aman Kyoto’s secret gardens, presenting guests with an opportunity to journey back through time, following in the footsteps of this ancient dynasty.

Wandering through the 32-hectare gardens, guests are surrounded by Kitayama cedars and Japanese maples, with the gardens bursting into life during the summertime when an abundance of irises, peonies, hydrangeas and azaleas sit waiting to be discovered.

Aman Kyoto guests are invited to take part in daily meditation sessions with Zen Buddhist monks in the ancient hall overlooking the beautiful Japanese gardens.

Participants can learn the principles of Zen meditation from local monks, helping them to find an inner sense of calm in a meaningful and engaging yet light-hearted process.

In Japan, the practice of flower arranging is regarded as much more than an aesthetic indulgence. Rather, it is celebrated for its therapeutic benefits and regarded almost as a form of moving mediation.

Aman Kyoto guests are invited to spend time with an expert in Ikebana, transforming seasonal blooms into structurally magnificent arrangements in terms of both form and colour.

Aman Kyoto is ideally situated for guests keen on experiencing local culture, with the following annual events all within striking distance.

Miyako Odori

A traditional dance ritual dating back to the Meiji period, Miyako Odori is performed in April in Gion, Kyoto. The event includes performances by geishas, who dance dressed in exquisite kimonos.

First shown at the Kyoto Exhibition, Miyako Odori earned rave reviews from international audiences, showcasing the geisha culture for which this district of Kyoto is renowned to the whole world.

The event was also well received by cultural figures within Japan, leading to the creation of the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theatre and several other famous stages to host the geishas’ stunning performances.

Translating to English as ‘Capital City Dances’, an apt title given the Kyoto was once the Japanese capital, Miyako Odori is a rare opportunity for international guests to gain a glimpse into the mysterious world of the geisha.

Aoi Festival

One of Kyoto’s oldest festivals, Aoi Festival starts with a parade in May, beginning at Kyoto Imperial Palace and heading to Shimogamo Shrine before making its way to Kamigamo Shrine.

Led by the cavalry followed by female courtiers carrying parasols and floral decorations, the procession also features a palanquin, upon which sits the Saio-Dai, or festival princess, an unmarried female dressed in an elaborate ceremonial attire including a 12-layer ceremonial kimono.

The festival provides spectators with unique appreciation of the ancient capital, also incorporating horseraces, mounted archery displays and solemnly performed Shinto rituals.

Oka Festival

Staged at Hirano Shrine, which is renowned for its stunning annual cherry blossom display, this annual event takes place while the blossom is in full bloom.

Stalls line the approach to the shrine, with local people joining together to have a good time. The festival’s climax is a procession involving around 200 people, incorporating an impressive display of cavalry and traditionally dressed young ladies.

The procession files past Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, proceeding to Hakubaicho Station then on to Kinkakuji Temple.

Gion Festival

The festival floats of Gion Festival are the highlight of summer sightseeing in Kyoto, attracting visitors from across Japan and beyond as one of the country’s three major festivals.

Highlights of Gion Festival include a parade called Yamaboko, where floats are decorated with extravagant ornaments and paraded through the streets of Shijo-dori and Kawaramachi-dori, powered by countless float pushers and accompanied by traditional Japanese musical instruments.

Gion Festival originated as a purification ritual designed to eliminate a plague and is associated with the wishes and prayers of local people to this day.