A Symphony of Spring: The Welcome Delights
At the heart of this seasonal transformation are two exquisite new offerings: the “Parfait Printanier” and the “Spring Breeze” welcome drink. These additions are crafted to transport guests to a serene Kyoto spring moment.
Parfait Printanier: A Jewel of Spring
The “Parfait Printanier” (Spring Parfait) is a true masterpiece, adorned with precious white strawberries and delicate amezaiku (traditional Japanese candy craft) that glimmers like captured light. Each spoonful is a journey, beginning with transparent elderflower jelly, followed by a playful crunch of sweet-sour strawberries and white chocolate crumble. A cloud of smooth sakura-infused fresh cream crowns this creation, delivering a gentle, ephemeral aroma that whispers of spring.
One might imagine a guest remarking, “The way the sakura scent subtly unfolds with each bite, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the white strawberry, truly feels like an edible poem celebrating spring’s arrival.”
Spring Breeze: A Refreshing Whisper
Complementing the parfait is the “Spring Breeze,” a vibrant crimson non-alcoholic cocktail. This refreshing drink harmonizes the zesty acidity of grapefruit with the lush sweetness of strawberries. A faint, ethereal sakura aroma drifts through its fruity profile, creating a light and airy sensation, much like a gentle spring wind passing by.
The Full Afternoon Tea Experience
Beyond these captivating welcome items, the “Strawberry Parfait Afternoon Tea” continues to delight with its extensive array of treats.
Savories and Viennoiseries
Guests can indulge in seven types of strawberry sweets and four savory items, ensuring a balanced culinary journey. The savory selection includes:
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Rolled Cabbage
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Ume Shiso Sasami-age (Chicken tenderloin fried with plum and perilla)
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Salmon and Ikura Pie
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Aigamo Pinchos (Duck skewers)
These are perfectly complemented by the elegant “Croissant Sandwiches.”
Sweet Delights
The sweets stand showcases a dazzling assortment of strawberry-themed creations, each a tiny work of art. From glistening strawberry-shaped jellies to delicate tarts adorned with gold leaf, and beautifully layered cakes, every piece is designed to enchant.
Free-Flow Beverages
To enhance the experience, approximately 30 types of drinks are offered on a free-flow basis. This extensive selection includes unique Japanese black teas sourced from Wazuka-cho, Kyoto, alongside various flavored teas, traditional Japanese teas, specialty coffees, and other comforting beverages like matcha latte and hot chocolate.
Event Details
This special afternoon tea is available until April 12, 2026, with the new welcome menu commencing on February 24, 2026. Reservations are essential and must be made by noon on the day prior to your visit. The “Strawberry Parfait Afternoon Tea” is served in three distinct sessions daily at Café & Bar “TEA AND BAR” on the 2nd floor of THE THOUSAND KYOTO.
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Location: Café & Bar “TEA AND BAR” (THE THOUSAND KYOTO 2F)
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Hours: 3 sessions (11:30-13:30, 15:00-17:00, 18:30-20:30, all L.O.)
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Price: 7,400 JPY per person (9,400 JPY with a glass of champagne). Prices include a 15% service charge and consumption tax, along with the free-flow drink selection.
For more information and reservations, please visit the official website:
https://www.keihanhotels-resorts.co.jp/the-thousand-kyoto/strawberry-afternoontea2026/
This innovative blend of seasonal fruits and traditional Japanese aesthetics, particularly the subtle integration of sakura, showcases a growing trend in Japanese hospitality. It offers a unique opportunity for both local and international visitors to immerse themselves in Kyoto’s refined culinary culture, embracing the beauty of spring through taste and aroma. It’s a testament to how Japanese hotels continue to evolve the afternoon tea experience, making it a truly global, yet distinctly local, delight.
