【Kyoto The Shinmonzen】Summer Limited Afternoon Tea in Collaboration with Akihiro Kakimoto, Woven by World-Refined Sensibility

Summer Afternoon Tea

Amidst Kyoto's gentle transition from spring to summer, The Shinmonzen proudly presents a summer-exclusive afternoon tea, a collaboration with pastry chef Akihiro Kakimoto of Kyoto's "ASSEMBLAGES KAKIMOTO." This experience embodies a tranquil and profound afternoon tea, where a sensibility that delicately captures seasonal changes merges with refined skills honed globally.

This afternoon tea draws inspiration from the moment when the lingering essence of spring quietly intersects with the first hints of early summer. For sweets, a tart combining cherries and pistachios gently reflects the remnants of spring. A light cream puff conceals a cream layered with shiso, coconut, and pineapple, creating a harmonious blend of aroma and refreshing sensation. Furthermore, a blancmange with a subtle kick of ginger layered with the freshness of melon brings a cool aftertaste and lightness to the overall experience.

The savory dishes beautifully harmonize delicate spices with Japanese essences, adding a subtle contrast to the flavors. Freshly baked scones are served with clotted cream and pineapple jam, gently concluding the course with a refreshing summer sweetness.

Sweets Savory

Akihiro Kakimoto competed in two categories of the "Coupe du Monde de la Pâtisserie" in 2011 and challenged the "World Chocolate Masters" in 2013 and 2018. In all instances, he won the national preliminaries and achieved excellent results in the world championships. The sensibility and skill cultivated through these three challenges, which involve discerning the individuality of ingredients and deriving optimal combinations, are deeply embedded in this afternoon tea.

Furthermore, the restaurant "Jean-Georges at The Shinmonzen" within The Shinmonzen received one Michelin star in the latest Michelin Guide announced on April 23, 2026, following its success in the previous year. In a space where outstanding cuisine and service continue to be highly praised, this afternoon tea is also elevated into a memorable experience.

Indulge in a quiet and elegant summer afternoon tea, a fusion of ideas and techniques refined worldwide, in the sophisticated ambiance of The Shinmonzen. Enjoy a tranquil moment that satisfies your heart and senses under the gentle light.

Saisonnalité by Chef Kakimoto ― Summer Afternoon Tea

Period: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from May 1, 2026, to August 30, 2026

Hours: Each session is 2 hours. 14:30-16:30, 15:00-17:00

Price: 10,000 JPY (tax and service included)

Location: Terrace seating or indoor seating at Jean-Georges at The Shinmonzen

Book here

*Welcome drink ("NOOH" non-alcoholic sparkling wine), coffee/tea are free refills.

*Reservations required by 6 PM the day before.

The Shinmonzen

Opened in Gion, the heart of Kyoto, The Shinmonzen is a small luxury hotel comprising contemporary Japanese design by Tadao Ando, cosmopolitan interiors, and a collection of world-class contemporary art. Inspired by traditional Japanese ryokans, its nine balcony suites overlook the Shirakawa River in Gion, offering personalized service unique to a hidden retreat. In the first-ever Michelin Key hotel selection in Japan announced in 2024, it was selected as one of 17 "2 Michelin Key" hotels, and maintained that rating in 2025, receiving "2 Michelin Keys" for two consecutive years. Furthermore, its restaurant "Jean-Georges at The Shinmonzen" received one Michelin star in the Michelin Guide Kyoto Osaka 2025 and 2026, consistently being highly praised for its outstanding quality. More details about our hotel can be found at https://theshinmonzen.com/jp/.

[Reservations and Inquiries]

Jean-Georges at The Shinmonzen

Address: 235 Nishinocho, Shinmonzen-dori, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0088

TEL: 075 600 2055 E-Mail: jg@theshinmonzen.com