As cherry blossoms start to bloom across Japan, our cocktail journey takes us to Park Hyatt Kyoto, a luxury hillside retreat nestled in the heart of Higashiyama. Overlooking the breathtaking Yasaka Pagoda, the hotel blends modern refinement with Kyoto’s deep cultural heritage. Among Park Hyatt Kyoto’s most distinguished spaces is Kohaku, an intimate bar designed for connoisseurs of fine cocktails and spirits. With warm woods, rich leather textures and floor-to-ceiling windows framing Kyoto’s timeless beauty, Kohaku offers an elegant yet inviting atmosphere for guests to unwind. Inspired by Kyoto’s iconic cherry blossoms, the Sakura Sling is a celebration of delicate flavors and expert craftsmanship. This cocktail features Ki No Bi Blue Dragon, a house gin made in collaboration with renowned local Ki No Bi distillery. Crafted using pure well water from the Higashiyama district, this gin is distinguished by its smooth, mellow profile. In addition, a sakura concentrated juice adds floral notes and a touch of sweetness before being topped with lemonade. It is then garnished with a lemon slice and a sakura branch. This refreshing drink captures the fleeting beauty of sakura season, delivering a sip of Kyoto’s elegance in every glass. Guiding Kohaku’s vision is chief bartender Akiko Nakamura, whose expertise and artistry have earned her a stellar reputation across Japan. Her credentials include Chivas Mizunara Masters champion in 2015, special award winner at the MHD XO cocktail competition in 2016 and top 20 in the Bacardi Legacy competition Japan in 2017. Since joining Park Hyatt Kyoto in 2019, Nakamura has captivated guests with her innovative cocktails and frequently showcases her skills as a guest bartender nationwide. Seamlessly blending history, craftsmanship and hospitality, Kohaku is a destination where every sip tells a story. Whether savoring a handcrafted cocktail or enjoying the serene surroundings, guests are invited to indulge in an experience that embodies the spirit of Kyoto. Every month, Bastien Gardrat, the Spirits Ambassador who oversees the Spirits Lab at Forbes Travel Guide’s L’Académie, shares a unique bar/cocktail experience. To be considered for a feature, email him at spirits@forbestravelguide.com. #forbestravelguide #hospitality #hospitalityindustry #hotels #hotelsandresorts #foodandbeverage #foodandbeverageindustry #bars #cocktails
