[Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto] The Lounge & Bar Rebranded as "SEY" | Sophisticated "Izakaya" Concept for Relaunch on April 1st (Wednesday)

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto (Location: 570 Myohokkeji-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, General Manager: Fanny Gibert) is revamping the concept of its 3rd-floor "The Lounge & Bar" to a sophisticated "Izakaya" as part of its 10th-anniversary initiatives. It will relaunch as "SEY" (pronunciation: SEI) on April 1st (Wednesday).

In preparation for the hotel's 10th anniversary in October 2026, a rebranding of the restaurant is being implemented. "The Lounge & Bar" will be renamed "SEY," offering a new dining experience with carefully selected signature cocktails that capture the essence of Kyoto, and bar food that adds a twist to familiar Izakaya flavors.

■ "SEY": A Place to Connect with Kyoto's Seasons and Culture

Kyoto's nature, nurtured by its clear, flowing waters since ancient times, including the Kamo River that brings relaxation and vibrancy to the lives of both tourists and locals. The pristine beauty and the original landscape of Kyoto are embodied in the new name, "SEY." Through carefully selected local sake and ingredients curated by our bartenders and chefs, we have created an experience that allows guests to feel an even deeper connection with Kyoto.

■ A Unique Cocktail Bar Experience in an Extraordinary Space Overlooking "Sekisui-en," a Garden with 800 Years of History

The hotel's iconic "Sekisui-en" is a historic pond garden whose name is recorded in "The Tale of the Heike." The water's surface, reflecting the changing seasons, enhances the world of "SEY." You can experience a special moment, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, surrendering to the leisurely flow of time.

■ Signature Cocktails Reflecting Kyoto's Climate, Led by Bartender Ogawa

FSK75

A twist on the French 75, based on six gins, prepared in the Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto style.

Finished with a sorbet made from red perilla from Ohara, Kyoto, shaped like a rose, and topped with Japanese sparkling sake. A refreshing cocktail accented with the tartness of sudachi.

The Monaka

A cocktail inspired by the Japanese confection Monaka, evoking a sense of Japaneseness. White vodka is paired with "Tamagawa," a sake from Kinoshita Brewery, located in Kyotango.

The garnish is a piece of Monaka wafer topped with white bean paste, exuding a faint aroma of cherry blossoms.

We recommend this drink for those who wish to enjoy the feeling of cherry blossom viewing in Kyoto.

Oyasumi

A dessert cocktail using Okinawan rum. A luxurious black sesame syrup, the mellowness of egg white, and the tropical aroma of mango create a perfect harmony, ideal for ending the day.

Enjoy the balanced flavor with the crisp texture of fragrantly torched brown sugar.

Additionally, we offer five signature cocktails, including "Silent Garden" made with Hakushu whisky, known for its smoky finish, and "Smoky Old Fashioned," a classic Old Fashioned with a Kyoto-esque twist of sansho pepper, providing a novel cocktail experience. (Signature Cocktails: ¥3,800 each)

■ Bar Food Elevating Izakaya Staples with a Hotel Touch

We offer bar food that reimagines familiar "Izakaya classics" with the sophistication and playfulness of Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto, infused with Kyoto's culture.

The "Beef Katsu Sandwich," featuring 200g of carefully grilled thick-cut Wagyu beef sandwiched between light and fluffy milk bread, is a must-try signature food. Each bite reveals the juicy and delicate umami of Wagyu, offering a simple yet impactful flavor. The "Beef Katsu Sandwich," a dish reflecting Kyoto's rich beef culture, is the chef's top recommendation.

About Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto opened on October 15, 2016, at the foot of Higashiyama, where the historic 800-year-old garden "Sekisui-en," mentioned in "The Tale of the Heike," is located. The hotel's main entrance begins with a 100-meter approach through a bamboo grove, and upon arriving at the lobby, guests are greeted by the lush greenery of Sekisui-en framed by a large window.

The hotel, surrounding this garden, features 123 guest rooms and suites and 57 hotel residences designed by Hirsch Bedner Associates, offering spacious accommodations. The stylish yet subtly Japanese-inspired spaces provide a tranquil retreat. The main dining room, "The Brasserie," with its terrace seating, offers house-aged steaks, seasonal seafood, charcoal-grilled local vegetables, and the hotel's special afternoon tea. Additionally, "SEY," reborn in 2026 with a sophisticated Izakaya concept, serves cocktails and bar food that allow guests to experience the essence of Kyoto with all five senses. "Kajyu," a tea house lounge in the sukiya-zukuri style located across the garden, offers sweets made with matcha and other ingredients during the day, and Japanese sake and champagne in the evening while enjoying the illuminated garden.

Furthermore, the hotel is equipped with a pool, fitness center, and spa for a resort-like experience. The chapel with natural light and banquet facilities, including a ballroom that can accommodate up to 360 guests, provide stylish spaces suitable for various events, from weddings to conferences and receptions.

Official Website: https://www.fourseasons.com/jp/kyoto/