March 6th to 8th, 2025
Nearest airport: KIX
Accommodation
Ace Hotel Kyoto
Experience the perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional Japanese aesthetics at our chosen accommodation.
Fun Fact: The hotel’s stunning architecture was designed by the renowned Kuma Kengo, the visionary behind Tokyo’s iconic Olympic Stadium.
Day 1: March 6th - The Beginning
Kyoto Welcome Sake Hour (5p.m.)
Immerse in a tasting and educational session led by the 16th-generation owner of TsukinoKatsura Sake. As sake approaches recognition as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, this session goes beyond tasting to explore its rich history, craftsmanship, and cultural significance.
Day 1: March 6th - Welcome Dinner
Sake Barrel Opening
Traditional ceremony featuring sake barrel opening
Tuna-Cutting Demonstration
Witness a master chef expertly demonstrate the art of tuna cutting, using fresh tuna delivered the very same day.
Evening (10pm) Reception (Optional)
Relax and socialise over drinks at a private bar reserved exclusively for our group—an intimate space designed just for us to connect and unwind.
Day 2: March 7th
Morning: Zazen Meditation
Start our journey in Kyoto with an exclusive Zazen meditation session at a sub-temple within Daitoku-ji Temple, a prestigious first-class Zen temple normally closed to the public. Steeped in history, Daitoku-ji is famously tied to Edo period Shogun Hideyoshi Toyotomi, who ordered the seppuku of Sen no Rikyū, the most renowned tea master in Japanese history.
Lunch: Shojin Ryori
Experience Shojin Ryori, the traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine within Daitoku-ji Temple.
Afternoon: Suntory Whisky Distillery
Indulge in a private viewing of the world-famous Suntory Whisky distillery, a global sensation with deep ties to Kyoto and YPO. Typically sold out a year in advance, this exclusive tour has been specially arranged through our YPO connections!
Day 2: March 7th - Evening
Michelin-starred Kyoto Kaiseki Dinner
Experience traditional Kyoto Kaiseki cuisine at a Michelin-starred restaurant with a 150-year legacy and YPO connections.
Exclusive Maiko and Geiko Performances
Enjoy performances by Maiko and Geiko, a privilege reserved for members of Kyoto's prestigious tea house districts.
DJ Party (Optional)
Wrap up the night with an energetic DJ party in a space reserved exclusively for YPO SLC.
Day 3: March 8th - Day
Bushidō Swordsmanship
Begin the day with an immersive experience in Japanese “Bushidō” swordsmanship and imperial culture at Seiryuden Temple, featuring a captivating performance with the traditional Japanese sword (Nihontō).
Meet Imperial Family Member
Meet a member of the imperial family who owns the temple and take part in the sacred GOMADAKI fire purification ceremony—a powerful ritual for cleansing and making heartfelt wishes.
Tempura Lunch
Enjoy a tempura lunch at Endo, a renowned tempura house with 140 years of history, with a special guest.
Day 3: March 8th - Evening
Kimono Experience
Dress in traditional kimono for stunning photo opportunities as you visit the iconic Kiyomizu Temple.
Exclusive Evening at Kiyomizu Temple
Experience an exclusive YPO-only event: a private tour and life-learning session with Reverend Eigen Onishi, renowned for hosting figures like Michelle Obama and other national VIPs. Reverend Onishi will share profound teachings about “Life” and grant access to the temple’s hidden areas, normally closed to the public—a truly unique and privileged opportunity.
Cocktails and Dinner
Enjoy cocktails and dinner at the sacred Kiyomizu Temple. It is a deep honour for our group to be welcomed there and allowed to privatise this sacred place.
Karaoke Night (Optional)
End the evening with a fun karaoke session.
Day 4: March 9th - Departure and Optional Activities
Check-Out
Bid farewell to Kyoto as we conclude our retreat.
Optional Activities
- Osaka-style "Kuidaore" (eat until you drop) lunch
- Watch a live sumo match at the Osaka arena (limited to 20 seats)
- Free time for shopping or exploring
- Casual dinner
SLC 2025 Kyoto Retreat