About
Gion Suetomo
Gion Suetomo was founded in 2009 by Hisashi Suetomo, a highly skilled chef who honed his craft at renowned Kyoto ryotei
(traditional fine dining restaurants).
Located in the heart of Gion, where historic establishments line the streets,
Suetomo believes that the restaurant’s atmosphere is as much a part of the dining experience as the cuisine itself.
With this in mind, he personally designed the restaurant’s architecture, emphasizing the beauty of Japanese design.
Here, guests can immerse themselves in seasonal elegance through a meticulously crafted kaiseki dining experience.
Enjoy the changing seasons of Kyoto through our carefully curated dishes, and indulge in a truly luxurious moment.
A Monthly Celebration of Kyoto’s Seasons and Culture
At Gion Suetomo, our kaiseki courses express the beauty of Kyoto’s seasons and traditions.
Each month, we craft a menu that highlights the finest seasonal ingredients, ensuring that every visit offers a fresh and unique culinary journey.
Crafted with Yasaka’s Pristine Water
Water is the foundation of Japanese cuisine.
At Gion Suetomo, we use the pure water of Yasaka,
drawn from 40 meters underground,
to prepare delicate, refined dishes.
Our kaiseki cuisine embodies the timeless traditions of Japan,
carrying a deep respect for cultural heritage
that is slowly fading in modern times.
We invite you to savor the depth of Kyoto cuisine
and experience the essence of Japanese hospitality
in its most authentic form.
- About Our Chef Hisashi Suetomo
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After training at renowned Kyoto ryotei, Hisashi Suetomo was appointed as the head chef of a prestigious restaurant in Gion.
Following his tenure, he spent over a year preparing to establish his own restaurant in a quiet yet distinguished area of Gion.
A Harmonious Fusion
of Architecture and Cuisine
At Gion Suetomo, we believe that the dining environment is an essential part of the experience. Our unadorned, minimalistic space reflects the elegance of Japanese architecture, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the spirit of Kyoto.
Located along Yasaka Street, where many renowned Kyoto ryotei are found, Gion Suetomo sits directly in front of the main gate of Kenninji Temple.
Inside, guests will find a tatami-lined counter area near the entrance, a private eight-mat tatami room in the back, offering a secluded retreat, and a second-floor dining room with a breathtaking view of Kenninji Temple’s main gate.
Our Sukiya-zukuri style architecture provides a tranquil escape from daily life, offering a deep connection to Japanese culture.
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A Seasonal Kyoto Kaiseki Experience
At Gion Suetomo, we offer kaiseki omakase courses for both lunch and dinner, featuring the finest seasonal ingredients. Our unique kaiseki experience includes:
- ・ Sakizuke (Starter): Inspired by Kyoto’s cultural traditions and seasonal themes.
- ・ Hassun (Assortment): A reflection of Kyoto’s seasonal beauty through artfully arranged small dishes.
- ・ Eight meticulously curated courses, each expressing the depth and artistry of Kyoto cuisine.
Even for guests dining in private rooms, we offer live cooking experiences, preparing grilled dishes right in front of you for an unforgettable touch.
Enjoy the delicate balance of flavors in our rice, desserts, and other carefully crafted dishes, designed to showcase the true depth of Kyoto’s culinary traditions.
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The Spirit of
"Wa-Kei-Sei-Jaku"At Gion Suetomo, we embrace the philosophy of "Wa-Kei-Sei-Jaku" (harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility). We believe that a dining experience should be a conversation between chef and guest, fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Guided by the principle of "food that is kind to the body and heart," we personally select our ingredients, often visiting farms and producers to ensure only the finest quality. From preparation to plating, every dish is crafted with deep care and attention to detail, ensuring that each guest feels at ease and truly welcomed.
We encourage guests to dine alone or with company, as we strive to create a peaceful and intimate experience for all.
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Now Featuring Four Exclusive Rooms
In response to growing demand for private dining, we have expanded our restaurant to include four exclusive private rooms. Among them, our second-floor room offers a breathtaking view of Kenninji Temple, creating a uniquely Kyoto atmosphere.
Perfect for couples, families, or special occasions, our private rooms provide an elegant and intimate setting for an unforgettable dining experience.
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Dining in the Heart of Gion
Located near Kenninji Temple, Yasaka Shrine, Kodaiji Temple, Kiyomizudera, and Sannenzaka, Gion Suetomo offers the perfect setting for a relaxing meal amidst Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage. As part of your Kyoto journey, we invite you to experience the depth of Kyoto cuisine in a refined, traditional setting.
Reservations are required in advance, as we operate on a strict reservation-only basis.
We are open throughout the year, including the New Year’s holiday, ensuring that we always serve the finest seasonal ingredients to our guests.
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Traditional Kyoto Ozashiki Asobi
Experience the elegance of Kyoto’s traditional Ozashiki Asobi—an exclusive cultural experience where guests dine and interact with Maiko (apprentice geisha).
With prior reservation, we can arrange for Maiko and Geiko (fully trained Geisha) to perform and host an authentic ozashiki (tatami parlor) gathering.
Enjoy traditional Kyoto entertainment, including dance, music, and classic Japanese games, for a memorable and uniquely Kyoto experience.
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We accommodate special dietary requests, including:
- ・ Shojin Ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine)
- ・ Fully vegetarian and vegan kaiseki courses
- ・ Allergy-friendly modifications
We also provide multilingual menus, ensuring that international guests can dine with confidence.