Tokyo to Kyoto
I’ve just returned from an unforgettable trip to Japan, where I joined 140 of Ireland’s top entrepreneurs on the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Retreat. Among us were the 24 finalists and leading business minds like Dennis O’Brien, Mark Roden, Anne Heraty, and Brian O’Sullivan. The week was an incredible blend of business inspiration, cultural exploration, and pure luxury — with a few fun surprises along the way!
Tokyo: Where Tradition Meets Innovation
We kicked off in Tokyo, a city of contrasts — high-tech yet deeply respectful of tradition. One of the highlights was our visit to the Tokyo Stock Exchange, where we got an up-close view of Japan’s financial powerhouse. Interestingly, unlike in the West where green signals a rise in stocks, in Japan red is the colour of luck and prosperity, so an “up” market flashes in vibrant red — a fascinating cultural insight.
We stayed at the elegant Hotel Okura Tokyo, a luxury property that beautifully marries old-world charm with contemporary refinement. One thing that quickly stood out? The toilets. Every bathroom we visited — even in train stations — had heated seats, sound effects, and more buttons than you can imagine. Once you’ve experienced a Japanese toilet, there’s no going back!
Top 5 things to do in Tokyo:
- Tokyo Stock Exchange – A behind-the-scenes look at the beating heart of Japan’s economy.
- Shibuya Crossing – One of the world’s most iconic photo ops.
- Meiji Shrine – A peaceful oasis in a buzzing city.
- Ginza District – Where luxury shopping meets world-class dining.
- Karaoke Night – Our group night out was unforgettable — full of laughter, music, and memories.
Customs Declaration and Entry Form
When arriving in Tokyo, you’ll need to complete a customs declaration and entry form. To save time and breeze through the airport, complete it online before arrival via Visit Japan Website.
Kyoto: A Peaceful Pause
From Tokyo, we zipped across the country on the iconic bullet train — a sleek, comfortable journey that’s a marvel in itself. We checked into the luxurious Four Seasons Kyoto, a serene haven tucked among ancient temples and gardens.
In Kyoto, the tempo shifted. We visited Kosho-ji Temple, where we took part in a tea ceremony, meditation with a monk, and even tried our hand at origami. It was a beautiful reminder of the depth of Japanese culture and mindfulness. Dinner that evening at The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto, set in a former artist’s residence, was a masterclass in refined Japanese cuisine.
Top 5 things to do in Kyoto:
- Kosho-ji Temple – For stillness, learning, and spiritual insight.
- Fushimi Inari Shrine – Walk through thousands of iconic red torii gates.
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – Step into a fairytale forest.
- Gion District – Catch a glimpse of geishas and historic Kyoto.
- Dine at The Sodoh Higashiyama – A must for food lovers.
I flew Business Class with Etihad Airways — 7.25 hours to Abu Dhabi and 10.05 hours onward to Tokyo. Worth every minute for a trip as extraordinary as this.
Japan — you captured my heart. I’ll be back.
To book your next luxury holiday to Japan, contact The Travel Suite on 019059008 or fill out our contact form and one of our Travel Experts will be in touch.
