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Japanese experience in London near Thistle Hotels

Dreaming of Japan

Are you dreaming of a trip to Japan? With spectacular gardens, flavourful cuisine and a rich and varied culture, it’s no wonder that the country has pride of place on many a bucket list. But did you know that you can enjoy many of those Japanese pleasures right here in London?

We’ve put together our top picks for destinations in London that will help you find that authentic Japanese experience you’ve been craving. From Kensington Sushi to a Japanese tearoom, there’s plenty to discover.

Kyoto Garden

With its rippling waterfall and lake full of gleaming, coy carp, it’s hard to believe that this peaceful spot is in London at all.

Kyoto Garden is a perfect place to wander all year round when visiting London, with Japanese topiary, stone lanterns and other delights at every turn. You can even enjoy one of the most quintessentially Japanese experiences every spring when the cherry trees blossom. A visit in autumn to witness the maples turn burnished red and gold is not to be missed either.

Kyoto Garden is found in Holland Park W8 6LU, London. The nearest underground stations are Holland Park and Kensington High Street.

Discover Kyoto Garden

Peaceful waterfall in Holland Park near Thistle Hotels

Japan House

Japan House lets you get hands-on with Japanese culture. Located on Kensington High Street, it’s an immersive space where you can enjoy exhibitions, talks and workshops for free.

Exhibitions and displays are constantly changing, with previous topics spanning history, technology, traditional craft and anime. 

Once you’ve finished strolling the current exhibition, you can browse their library for a while. Even the gift shop is a place to be informed as they provide fascinating insights on how the various treasures were created.

You can find Japan House at W8 5SA. The nearest underground station is Kensington High Street.

Take a look

 

Japan House experience in London near Thistle Hotels

Katsute 100

If tea is your thing, head to Katsute 100 in Islington. This charming tearoom blends the spirit of the Japanese tea ceremony with British flourishes for a truly relaxing experience. Sit inside and enjoy the antiques and soft jazz or take your tea outside to their soothing garden.

Tuck into Japanese-inspired desserts like matcha crepe cake or yuzu scones while sipping on one of their many specialty teas. Everything has been designed to showcase the work of small producers in Japan. Katsute 100 is the perfect place to chill and enjoy delicacies that you’re unlikely to find anywhere else in the UK.

You can find Katsute 100 at N1 8EG, London. The nearest underground station is Angel.

Visit Katsute 100

Experience Japanese dishes in London near Thistle Hotels

Japan Centre

Japan Centre was first established in 1976 and it’s now a leading source of Japanese ingredients in the UK, with its flagship shop on Panton Street (Regents Street).

Foodie’s can start with a wander around the food hall, visit the butchery and fish counter to see the experts at work and then finish up at the bakery for some Japanese patisserie. There might even be demos and tastings going on.

You can also take a stroll around the book or homeware departments as you hunt for the perfect items to add a little Japanese flare to your home.

You can find the Panton Street shop at SW1Y 4EA. The nearest underground station is Piccadilly Circus.

Take a look

Interior of The Japan Centre in London near Thistle Hotels