In Japan, Valentine's Day connotes sharing special treats and moments with treasured family and friends, a lover, or even by yourself. Owing to its unspoilt charm and beauty, Kyoto is a fabulous city to visit this Valentine's Day. Whether travellers are part of a couple, family or even going solo, there is a plethora of cultural attractions and special treats to experience, from ancient temples to exquisite cuisine. Kyoto Convention and Visitors Bureau (KCVB) is therefore encouraging all travel lovers to choose the former capital of Japan this February and feel the real romance of the city.

No Groom? No Problem. Get Married In Kyoto This February
For those who are happily single, Japanese tour operator Cerca Travel is offering a novel experience for female travellers who are looking to enjoy the full magic of a wedding day without the legal obligation of a marriage certificate! This package includes a day of pure bliss for wannabe brides, who can dress in elegant traditional kimono or a billowing white gown to create the picture perfect wedding. Set in the scenic backdrop of Kyoto, the two-day package is a unique and unforgettable way to spend Valentine's Day. The price starts from approx. 2,496.76 GBP for one person and includes one night's accommodation, English-speaking guide and a photo album memento of the day. For more information, visit www.cerca-travel.com.  

Share Heavenly Japanese Cuisine With A Loved One, from approx. 23.41 GBP
At the centrally-located Hotel Okura, guests can indulge in romantic treats to commemorate their love this Valentine's Day. The Special Accommodation Package starts from 221.59 GBP and includes a gift from the resident patisserie chef, who will bake a divine cake to be delivered to guests' rooms on cue.  Lovingly-decorated and accompanied by a personalised message, the cake is a delicious way to express one's feelings! Downstairs in the hotel's French restaurant, Pittoresque, couples can have a decadent date night on 14 February. Two exclusive menus will be on offer, starting from approx. 23.41 GBP for two people, and both include a glass of champagne – perfect for toasting the night. For more information, visit

For those looking to spend Valentine's Day in Kyoto, see below:

Beginner's Guide to Japan, from 4,990 GBP per person
For those who are yet to experience the joys of Japanese culture, Ampersand Travel has curated the perfect 11 day break for couples and families to take in the breadth and beauty of the country, including three nights in Kyoto. Commencing in Tokyo, visitors are treated to the stylish modernity of the city before heading into the Japanese Alps for a scenic getaway. A bullet train then takes travel lovers right to the heart of Japan, Kyoto, where its 17 world heritage sites, striking temples and Zen gardens will inspire even the most experienced travellers. Spend the days strolling through the city's diverse landscapes and learn the fascinating stories of the Geiko and craftsmen before retreating to the Royal Park Hotel, where guests have access to total luxury.  For more information, visit http://www.ampersandtravel.com/destinations/itineraries/japan-a-perfect-introduction/.

Exchange Vows In A Harmonious Temple, from 2,569 GBP per person
All preferences are catered for by Out Of Office, who will curate a bespoke package for same-sex couples looking to get married in a truly magnificent location this Valentine's Day! Upon arrival in Kyoto, travellers can spend the day getting acquainted with the city, before settling in for the night knowing that the next day will mark a very special occasion – the wedding day. After getting dressed in traditional wedding kimono and being tended to by a hair stylist, brides and grooms are taken to Shunkoin Temple – the first in Japan to offer same-sex ceremonies.  After the grand event, the married couple can enjoy a spectacular wedding dinner at the Shiokoji Rakusui traditional Japanese restaurant, and the days of marital bliss that follow can be tailored to individual preferences. For more information, visit https://www.outofoffice.com/Japan/gay-wedding-in-japan.

For more information on Kyoto, visit  kyoto.travel/en.

-ENDS-

Photo Captions:
Image 1: A Solo Bride Enjoying Her Big Day With Cerca Travels
Image 2: A Happy Couple Celebrating Their Same Sex Marriage At Shunkoin Temple

About KCVB
Kyoto Convention and Visitors Bureau is the official partnership for international tourism representation of the City of Kyoto, Japan. Kyoto's diverse history and reputation as Japan's original capital and cultural centre provide a wealth of opportunities for tour operators and travel agents.  The city is home to the Imperial Palace whilst also being the only place where 'real' geishas can still be seen, its old temples and Zen gardens interspersed with urban living means that Kyoto is a striking contrast of heritage and modern city.  Its location just 25 minutes from Osaka and 2hrs 15 minutes from Tokyo, make it easily accessible from Japan's two main international gateways.

Travellers can now take advantage of the 'City of Kyoto Visitors Host' service, whereby interpretation guides specialising in the history and culture of the city, can be booked to enrich visitors' experience and alleviate the pressure of day-trip planning. For more information, visit http://kyoto.travel/en/latest_news/42.  

For more information or imagery, please contact:
McCluskey International 
Fiona Anderson / Libby Hughes
T: 020 8747 2170
E: kyoto@mccluskey.co.uk