The Kamogawa River flowing quietly through Kyoto.
Photo by Mina Usui

A Wedding Designer’s Perspective

Kyoto is not only a beautiful destination — it is a place where culture, architecture, and quiet beauty shape unforgettable weddings.

Paris, Where My Design Journey Began

Kyoto has always held a special place in my heart.

Perhaps it is because of the city’s quiet elegance and its deep respect for culture, architecture, and tradition. In many ways, Kyoto reminds me of Paris — another city that has carefully preserved its beauty over centuries.

Hotel Fauchon Kyoto
Fauchon Hotel Kyoto – a beautiful blend of Parisian elegance and Kyoto aesthetics.
Photo by Mina Usui

Before becoming a destination wedding planner and designer, I studied floral design in Paris.

That experience shaped the way I see beauty not only in flowers, but also in atmosphere, architecture, and the relationship between design and space.

It also introduced me to the idea of art de vivre — the French philosophy of turning everyday life into an art, where beauty is found in how we live, gather, and celebrate.

In many ways, I feel Kyoto expresses a similar spirit where beauty lives quietly in everyday spaces.

The Seine and the Kamogawa

Just as the Seine flows gently through Paris, the Kamogawa runs through the heart of Kyoto.

Sunset time Kamogawa River ‖Photo by Mina Usui

Along its riverbanks and narrow streets, you discover small cafés, restaurants, and shops that feel like hidden treasures.

Many of these places are tucked away in historic buildings or hidden along quiet streets, waiting to be discovered.

Sometimes even finding a location can feel like a small adventure. It is not unusual in Kyoto that a taxi driver might not immediately recognize an address. Many places are known more by landmarks, neighborhoods, or simply by local knowledge.

But this is also part of Kyoto’s charm.

When guests discover these hidden places such as a beautiful restaurant, a quiet garden, a traditional building — it often feels like uncovering a small treasure.

My Favorite Hidden Places in Kyoto

Over the years, I have also discovered many wonderful restaurants, cafés, and hidden spots throughout Kyoto that I personally love.

If my clients wish, I am always happy to share a curated list of my favorite places of small restaurants, beautiful cafés, and special corners of the city that reflect the spirit of Kyoto.

For many couples and their guests, discovering these places becomes one of the most memorable parts of their time in Kyoto.

A City That Preserves Beauty

Kyoto also offers something increasingly rare in the modern world: a deep respect for preserving historic architecture and cultural heritage.

One of the charming bistros hidden in Kyoto’s historic streets.
Photo by Mina Usui

Rather than replacing old buildings, the city carefully protects them, allowing traditional spaces to continue living alongside modern creativity.

Wonderful cafés, bistros, and restaurants exist within traditional architecture, blending contemporary sensibilities with heritage in a way that feels both natural and refined.

For someone who loves art, design, and beautiful spaces, Kyoto is endlessly inspiring.

Relationships That Make Kyoto Personal

Another reason Kyoto feels so meaningful to me is the relationships I have built there over the years.

One of my closest collaborators — a trusted friend and team member originally from Kyoto — has supported my work for many years.

Through our work together, I have also built meaningful relationships with venue managers and many talented professionals throughout the city.

Four Seasons Kyoto
Sam Spicer Photography

These relationships, built quietly over many years, form an important foundation for the weddings we create.

While this may not always be visible from the outside, it allows us to work with Kyoto in a way that respects the culture, the traditions, and the unique character of each space.

Through these connections, Kyoto has become much more than a beautiful destination for weddings.

It is a place filled with inspiration, trust, and deep personal meaning.