About Curated Kyoto
Curated Kyoto introduces you to a new way of connecting with Kyoto through in-person experiences, travel itineraries, collaborations and media. We sift through countless possibilities in Japan’s ancient capital to bring you the very best the city has to offer.
Since 2017, Curated Kyoto has been introducing individuals and brands to a unique way of connecting with Kyoto. Amidst the countless possibilities in Japan's historic capital, we meticulously curate the finest experiences, itineraries, collaborations, and media offerings. In a city where personal relationships and connections are paramount, we believe that having a local specialist to introduce you to the right places and faces elevates experiences and deepens connections.
While Curated Kyoto started by offering ways for you to travel and explore Kyoto, we have expanded our mission to support clients in deepening their connections with the city and its beautiful culture through events, programs and collaborations.
At Curated Kyoto, we work closely with luxury hotels, brands, and creative individuals to ensure that every aspect of our clients' time in Kyoto is elevated to its fullest potential. Our past clients include esteemed names such as CHANEL, Estée Lauder, Adidas, American Express, KCRW, Vans, Park Hyatt Kyoto, and more.
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About Founder
Sara Aiko
Creative Director / Founder
Conde Nast Travel Expert 2021/2022/2023/2024
I created Curated Kyoto after working in a media department and realizing there was a significant gap in the available information. While there was plenty on well-known tourist destinations, there was a dearth of insights into the city’s beautiful culture and what truly makes Kyoto so special.
Kyoto has been my greatest teacher and has transformed my life. The craftsmen community, their dedication to excellence, and the pride the people take in preserving their beautiful city and culture have all profoundly impacted me, both personally and creatively. While beauty is everywhere in Kyoto, it’s the city’s layers and depth that truly change how you view life, especially in today’s modern world. This is the feeling I want to share with you.
In addition to curating experiences for Curated Kyoto, I work as a creative director for various media projects. This role has allowed me to deeply connect with Kyoto and gain a profound understanding of its culture and creative community. My work as an experience curator and creative director/editor go hand in hand. Ultimately, I love cutting out the noise, bringing out the beauty, and highlighting the best to truly touch the souls of my clients and audience.
My biggest ‘thank you’ goes to my Japanese mother for so fiercely raising me with two languages and cultures in New Zealand. Thanks to this upbringing, I have the unique advantage of possessing both a Western and Eastern perspective on Kyoto, which has been the backbone of my business.
I feel very blessed to be able to live in this city and connect the world to the city and creative community I love so much. Even after 14 years, this city inspires and amazes me every day.
Sara Aiko and Curated Kyoto
have been featured in…
Conde Nast Traveler, Vogue, Elle, The Financial Times,
Wall Paper Magazine and more.