Kyoto Century Hotel has introduced two original cocktails inspired by the bold warrior and playful cat ukiyo-e prints of the famous Edo-period artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi. Available from July 18 to September 23, 2026, at the hotel’s main bar, Essex, these drinks celebrate the dynamic energy and whimsical charm of Kuniyoshi’s artwork.
Visitors to Kyoto can enhance their cultural experience by visiting the “Ukiyo-e Super Creator Utagawa Kuniyoshi Exhibition” at the Kyoto City Kyocera Museum of Art, held during the same period. The cocktails bring the spirit of Kuniyoshi’s masterpieces to life, offering a unique blend of traditional Japanese art and modern mixology in a sophisticated bar setting near Kyoto Station.
About the Collaboration Cocktails
The cocktail menu features two creations inspired by Kuniyoshi’s iconic works. “Dual Spirit” draws on the fierce warrior Tengan Isobyoe from the print “Honcho Suikoden Goketsu Yaohiki Tengan Isobyoe Yashiarashi,” blending two premium Japanese spirits—Hakushu whiskey and a botanical gin from Hokkaido—to express a balance of strength and elegance. A red paprika garnish symbolizes the warrior’s traditional loincloth, adding a vivid accent to the drink.
“Shape Shifter” is inspired by the playful cat-themed word picture “Neko no Ateji Fugu.” This cocktail layers two classic drinks, Violet Fizz and White Cargo, featuring Kyoto’s premium craft gin “Ki no Bi.” The drink’s bubbles evoke the cats’ lively movements, while the vanilla ice cream float suggests the softness of their fur. Guests mix the layers themselves to create a new flavor experience. A non-alcoholic version with green apple flavor is also available.
Highlights
- Two artistic cocktails inspired by Utagawa Kuniyoshi’s ukiyo-e prints: “Dual Spirit” and “Shape Shifter”
- Original coasters featuring each artwork are given with every cocktail order
- Non-alcoholic option available for “Shape Shifter”
- Collaboration runs from July 18 to September 23, 2026, at Essex bar, Kyoto Century Hotel
- Special accommodation plan includes exhibition tickets and cocktail vouchers
Menu and Event Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Kyoto Century Hotel “Utagawa Kuniyoshi Exhibition” Collaboration Cocktails |
| Menu / items | Dual Spirit (alcohol) ¥2,000 (tax included); Shape Shifter (alcohol and non-alcohol) ¥2,000 each (tax included) |
| Location | Essex Bar, Kyoto Century Hotel, Kyoto, Japan |
| Address | 680 Higashishiokoji-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto |
| Period | July 18, 2026 – September 23, 2026 |
| Price | ¥2,000 per cocktail (tax included); Table charge ¥500 per person (tax included) |
| Release date | July 18, 2026 |
