Kyoto’s Hospitality Scene Flourishes with New Hotels Amid Pandemic Lockdown
As the pandemic lockdown in Japan coincided with a surge of new hotels, Kyoto emerged as a hotspot for luxury accommodations. The city, known for its 800-year-old temples and serene bamboo forests, saw the opening of renowned properties like the Park Hyatt, Aman, and Four Seasons, alongside a wave of independent and boutique hotels. When Japan reopened to foreign visitors in October 2022, tourists flocked back to Kyoto, spoilt for choice with a range of new accommodations at various price points.
One of the standout additions to Kyoto’s hospitality scene is the Mitsui hotel, designed by the acclaimed interior designer Andre Fu. Situated across from the historic Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the 161-room hotel seamlessly blends traditional elements with modern design. The Mitsui boasts four food and drink venues, including the French-Japanese restaurant Toki, helmed by chef Tetsuya Asano. With rooms starting at around $1,360 a night, the Mitsui offers a luxurious and culturally rich experience for guests.
Another notable newcomer is the Ace hotel, a 213-room property that brings a youthful and vibrant energy to Kyoto’s city center. Designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma and the California-based design firm Commune, the hotel features a unique blend of traditional and contemporary elements. Guests can enjoy the street-level branch of Stumptown Coffee Roasters, the first of its kind in Japan, with room rates starting at around $300 a night.
For those seeking a tranquil retreat, the 10-room property in the Arashiyama district offers a serene escape surrounded by nature. With minimalist design and handmade furnishings, guests can immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance of this hidden gem, with rooms starting at about $540 a night.
In the historic Gion district, the Shinmonzen hotel pays homage to traditional Japanese architecture while offering a luxurious and intimate experience. Designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, the hotel features only nine spacious guest rooms, each furnished with authentic Japanese elements like tatami mats and cypress soaking tubs. With room rates starting at around $1,500 a night, the Shinmonzen promises a truly immersive cultural experience for guests.
Lastly, the Maana Kiyomizu hotel, located near the 16th-century Toyokuni Shrine, offers a unique blend of modern design and traditional craftsmanship. With three suites and a boutique selling artisanal Japanese crafts, the property embodies a minimalist wabi-sabi aesthetic, with rooms starting at about $560 a night.
As Kyoto continues to redefine its hospitality scene with these new and innovative hotels, visitors can expect a truly unforgettable experience that seamlessly blends tradition with modern luxury.
