Kyoto’s Hospitality Scene Flourishes with New Hotels Amid Pandemic Lockdown
As the pandemic lockdown in Japan coincided with a flurry of new hotels, especially in Kyoto, the city saw a surge in accommodations that catered to a range of travelers. With the reopening of the country to foreign visitors in October 2022, tourists flocked back to the city known for its 800-year-old temples and serene bamboo forests, now spoiled for choice when it comes to places to stay.
Among the new additions to Kyoto’s hospitality scene are the Park Hyatt, Aman, Four Seasons, and a group of independent properties. The city also welcomed the first Ace hotel in the archipelago, adding a youthful and vibrant touch to the historic city center.
One standout hotel is the Mitsui, designed by renowned interior designer Andre Fu, located across from the iconic Nijo Castle. The hotel seamlessly blends traditional elements with modern design, offering guests a luxurious experience with four food and drink venues, including the French-Japanese restaurant Toki. Rooms at the Mitsui start at around $1,360 a night.
Another unique addition is the Ace hotel, which combines Japanese architect Kengo Kuma’s renovation of the historic Kyoto Central Telephone Office with a modern industrial building. The hotel features Ace’s signature mix of bright colors and patterns, along with a street-level branch of Stumptown Coffee Roasters. Rates at the Ace hotel start at around $300 a night.
For travelers seeking a tranquil retreat, the 10-room property in the Arashiyama district offers a sense of calm amidst nature. The minimalist design and handmade furnishings create a serene atmosphere, with each room featuring a soaking tub for relaxation. Rates at this property start at around $540 a night.
In the Gion district, the Shinmonzen hotel blends seamlessly with its surroundings, offering spacious guest rooms with traditional Japanese elements like tatami mats and shoji screens. Designed by famed architect Tadao Ando, the hotel aims to replicate the look of a machiya, a traditional townhouse found throughout Kyoto. Rates at the Shinmonzen start at around $1,500 a night.
Lastly, the Maana Kiyomizu hotel, located near the Toyokuni Shrine, offers a unique experience with three suites housed in a complex of machiya. The property also features a boutique selling artisanal Japanese crafts and a popular cafe serving coffee and pastries. Rates at Maana Kiyomizu start at around $560 a night.
With these new and innovative hotels redefining Kyoto’s hospitality scene, travelers have a plethora of options to choose from when visiting this historic city.
