Let’s face it: traveling with teenagers is a whole new ballgame. Gone are the days when you could plop them into a swimming pool, kick back in a cabana, and call it a day. Teenagers crave something meaningful to them, and nothing remotely childish will do. That’s why I’m always on the hunt for experiences that strike the perfect balance of cultural immersion, entertainment, and relaxation. In Kyoto, that search led us to one of my absolute favorite stays: The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto.
Why The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto Stands Out
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto holds a special place in my heart. While the Park Hyatt Kyoto also shines with its unbeatable location near iconic landmarks like Kiyomizu-dera, the Ritz-Carlton brings something unique to the table: a welcoming, family-friendly vibe with just the right touch of luxury. It’s the kind of place where teens and parents can relax, connect, and create unforgettable memories. During our two-week adventure across Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka all on miles and points, our two-night stay at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto became the highlight of our trip. Here’s what made it so special, and why it might be perfect for your family too.
Reason 1: Activities Tailored For Families With Teens
If you’ve ever struggled to keep teenagers entertained on vacation, you’ll appreciate how The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto goes out of its way to cater to families. They offer a variety of activities, from complimentary options to unique paid experiences, that will engage even the pickiest teens.
- Kimono Experience (11,000 Japanese Yen Per Person)
The kimono experience was the highlight of our stay – a private session right in the hotel. The Ritz-Carlton’s collaboration with a kimono vendor meant expert guidance, with staff assisting each guest with dressing, hair styling, and accessories. The attention to detail was astonishing: a separate guest room was set up with rows of kimonos, hairpieces, handbags, and slippers. One standout moment was when my younger daughter, who struggles with social anxiety, became overwhelmed. The Ritz-Carlton staff immediately knelt to her eye level, offering comfort and talking about shared interests like anime until she felt at ease. Their patience and genuine care turned what could have been a meltdown into a joyful experience.
- Origami and Gift Wrapping (Free)
Our teenagers loved the origami and gift-wrapping session, which was both fun and culturally enriching. The instructors were patient and engaging, sharing stories about Japanese traditions while teaching the kids how to make beautiful creations.
- Morning Hiking For 2 hours
We also signed up for a morning hike, which turned out to be a magical experience. The trail offered breathtaking views of Kyoto, and to our delight, it started snowing, which is a rare sight in recent winters. Even our teens, who usually groan at early wake-up calls, were thrilled by the serene beauty of the hike. We planned this on our checkout day, so we could return for a hearty Japanese breakfast at Mizuki before heading to Osaka. These thoughtful, teen-friendly activities are where The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto truly excels.
Reason 2: Breakfast & Dinner – A Culinary Adventure
At the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto, meals are more than just food, they’re experiences. If you have Marriott Bonvoy Elite status, you’ll especially appreciate the complimentary breakfast benefits. Here’s how we maximized them for our family:
- Breakfast at La Locanda
This Italian restaurant’s breakfast service is an elegant affair. The beautifully set tables and diverse menu make mornings feel special. Thanks to our Marriott Bonvoy Elite status, we booked two rooms – one under my Platinum Elite status and one under my husband’s Titanium Elite status, which ensure complimentary breakfast for all four of us.
- Kaiseki Breakfast at Mizuki
On our last day, we opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast at Mizuki. While it came with a 3,000 Japanese Yen surcharge per person, the artistry and flavors were worth every Yen. Returning from our snowy morning hike, this meal hit the spot and fueled us for the day ahead.
- Dinner at Tempura Mizuki
For a family celebration, we reserved seats at the intimate Tempura Mizuki. Watching the chefs prepare delicate tempura dishes. turning fresh ingredients into delicate, crispy masterpieces in front of us was an experience in itself. Our teens, still in their kimonos, bonded with the chefs over shared interests like food and cooking, making the evening even more memorable. If your family loves food as much as we do, this dinner is worth the splurge.
Reason 3: Service & Concierge – A Five-Star Standard
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto’s service is what truly sets it apart. The staff’s genuine care and attention to detail made every aspect of our stay seamless. From accommodating dietary requests to handling logistical challenges, like tracking delayed couriered luggage, their dedication was unwavering. Their ability to personalize experiences, especially for families, was remarkable. For instance, when my younger daughter, who was dealing with the challenges of wearing braces, expressed her dietary preferences. The concierge team not only accommodated her requests but also suggested additional dining options and activities to suit her mood.
Tips For Families Traveling With Teens
If you’re planning a stay at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto, here are some tips to make the most of your visit:
- Book Multiple Rooms: With Marriott Bonvoy Elite status, booking two rooms can maximize your benefits, including complimentary breakfast for the whole family.
- Plan Activities in Advance: Popular options like the kimono session and Tempura Mizuki dinner fill up quickly, so make the reservation early.
- Encourage Cultural Exploration: Teens might resist at first, but they’ll often end up loving immersive activities like origami or hiking.
- Wake Up Early: Kyoto’s beauty shines in the quiet of the morning. Our sunrise hike was one of the trip’s highlights.
How We Booked The Rooms For 4 Of Us:
- Two Nights with the 85,000 Marriott Free Night Certificates: We redeemed Free Night Certificate valued at 85,000 Marriott points for the luxurious stay.
- Two Nights Using Marriott Points: We booked an additional two nights, each requiring 85,000 Marriott points.
Each night carried a cash value of $1,500 per room, allowing us to save a significant amount in out-of-pocket expenses while enjoying a top-tier luxury experience.
Hotel & Room Information
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto’s signature fragrance adds a touch of serenity as you step inside. Our two rooms – one twin and one king, were on the courtyard level, offering a peaceful setting for rest and relaxation.
- Guest Room, 1 King, Courtyard View:
- Guest Room, 2 Double, Courtyard View:
Final Thoughts
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto isn’t just a luxury hotel. It’s a place where families can reconnect and create lasting memories. Whether it’s through thoughtful activities, exquisite dining, or impeccable service, this hotel has a way of making every moment special. If you’re navigating the challenges of traveling with teenagers, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto offers the perfect balance of sophistication and warmth. It’s a destination that caters to parents and teens alike, making it an ideal choice for your next family adventure in Japan.
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