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Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto Celebrates Autumn Artistry with New Afternoon Tea in Collaboration with Pastry Chef Charles-Henry Lebourg

Reservations are now open for highly anticipated event, slated to begin October 1, 2025
August 21, 2025,
Kyoto, Japan

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto invites guests on a dazzling exploration of fall flavours at the Fleur d’Automne Afternoon Tea, an artful collaboration between Pastry Chef Charles-Henry Lebourg and Executive Pastry Chef Yoshihide Hamamoto. Reservations are now open for this seasonal culinary experience, which will run from October 1 to November 30, 2025 in the scenic setting of EMBA KYOTO GRILL.

Acclaimed for his jewel-like pastries, Chef Charles-Henry Lebourg is the founder of his namesake French café in Tokyo. Trained by the legendary Joël Robuchon, and with over 15 years of experience at world-renowned, he merges the traditions French haute patisserie with carefully selected Japanese ingredients – all rooted in the deep appreciation for beauty that unites both cultures. Joining him, Chef Hamamoto adds a delicate, Kyoto-inspired touch, resulting in a truly unique Afternoon Tea experience.

“We are delighted to welcome Chef Charles-Henry to our Kyoto resort, where nature’s seasonal beauty illuminates every moment. Guests can look forward to intricately balanced flavours and a strong autumn focus, with fresh Japanese fruits at the heart of our menu,” says Jonathan Montolieu, Director of Food and Beverage.

Two signature seasonal tarts from the Afternoon Tea menu will also be available for takeaway during this period.

Fleur d’Automne Autumn Afternoon Tea with Charles Henry Lebourg

The Afternoon Tea unfolds a sensorial feast of sweets and savouries, dressed in fall’s glowing hues. Classic French treats are reimagined using seasonal Japanese ingredients like persimmons and chestnuts, with each bite offering a lasting impression of surprise, joy and finesse.

Guests are welcomed by an Earl Grey and orange mocktail, setting the scene for autumn-themed specialities such as:

  • Shine Muscat Tart. Luscious Shine Muscat grapes gain a wondrous new complexity with the addition of Parmesan lemon mousse and tangy redcurrant compote – all finished with a touch of floral elderflower.
  • Persimmon Tart. A rediscovery of Japan’s iconic autumn fruit. Naturally sweet persimmons are rounded out with salted pecans, while dried persimmon and olive oil create a satisfying texture. Flavours deepen further with a velvety chocolate cream and whiskey.
  • Jambon-Beurre. A modern take on the classic French sandwich, recreated with homemade white ham, specially seasoned butter and Comté cheese. Chef Charles-Henry updates the baguette with Japanese soba flour, which is naturally low in gluten and reveals a surprising richness of taste.

The savoury menu includes an ensemble of French-inspired hors d’oeuvres, such as artichoke soup. An extensive tea and coffee selection completes the experience.

Hosted at EMBA KYOTO GRILL, the Fleur d’Automne Afternoon Tea is served against the stunning backdrop of the Hotel’s 800-year-old Japanese pond garden. Guests can dine alfresco at the open-air terrace, enveloped in the pleasures of autumn: a cool, crisp breeze and the reflection of colourful leaves dancing across shimmering waters. The indoor dining room is brightened by soft sunshine and floor-to-ceiling views of the autumn scenery outside.

*The terrace incurs an additional charge.

Takeaway Specialties

From October 1 to November 30, 2025, the Afternoon Tea’s signature tarts – Persimmon Tart and Shine Muscat Tart – will also be available for takeaway. Perfect as a gift, a treat for oneself, or a dessert for special occasions, these luxurious sweets bring a touch of indulgence to any moment.

Fleur d’Automne Afternoon Tea

  • October 1 to November 30, 2025
  • EMBA KYOTO GRILL
  • First Seating: 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm / 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm
  • Second Seating: 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm / 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm
  • Price: JPY 8,400 per person (tax and service charge included, weekdays and weekends)