Exploring Hotels in Kyoto

Kyoto is a city located in the Kansai region of Japan. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning temples, and beautiful gardens. With a history dating back over a thousand years, Kyoto was once the capital of Japan and served as the emperor's residence. Today, it is a popular tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors each year.

Ritz Carlton Kyoto

Nestled beside the picturesque Kamogawa River, the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto seamlessly marries modern luxury with traditional Japanese aesthetics. Offering generously sized rooms, impeccable service and a wealth of upscale amenities.

Accomodations: The accommodations are luxurious, blending traditional Japanese motifs with modern comforts. Each room features a unique combination of a shower and bathtub, with an eye-catching floral pattern on the wall. The shower floor resembles that of an outdoor shower, designed with wooden slats allowing water to drain efficiently. Notably, the vanity mirror incorporates a built-in television. Furthermore, the hotel now offers

• Dyptique products among its amenities.

Dining: However, the true standout at the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is its exceptional culinary offerings. The hotel houses five restaurants, each providing a diverse range of dining experiences, from authentic Japanese cuisine to international dishes prepared by world-class chefs. They even have a Pierre Hermé boutique right onsite, and the display of macarons and cakes are drool worthy. The delectable breakfast pastries are sourced from the same bakery.

Recreation and Services: The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto offers an array of amenities and services. These include a Ritz Carlton Spa with wellness center, a state-of-the-art fitness facility and indoor swimming pool.

The concierge service is adept at arranging sightseeing excursions and other activities to enhance your exploration of Kyoto. Furthermore, the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto provides complimentary activities like soap-making classes and guided bicycle tours of the city.

Park Hyatt Kyoto

Park Hyatt Kyoto should be at the top of your list when searching for the best luxury Kyoto hotels. It is located in central Kyoto. It offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern design, providing guests with an unforgettable experience. The hotel is situated in the historic Higashiyama district, surrounded by iconic Kyoto landmarks. With its prime location, guests can easily explore the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto. The hotel's architecture boasts a modern take on a traditional Japanese machiya townhouse, offering a seamless blend of classic and contemporary design elements.

Accommodations: Park Hyatt Kyoto offers a selection of luxurious guest rooms and suites, each thoughtfully adorned with traditional Japanese motifs and equipped with state-of-the-art amenities. The rooms feature serene garden or river views, further enhancing the sense of tranquility and connection to nature. Contemporary art created by local artisans is featured throughout the property.

Dining: Park Hyatt Kyoto offers a diverse array of dining experiences, catering to various preferences. Among them is the serene Living Room, perfect for casual gatherings. Yasaki, a teppanyaki restaurant with fantastic views of the Yasaki pagoda. And Kyoyamato, a famed kaiseki restaurant serving authentic Japanese multi-course cuisine. Notably, Kyoyamato, a treasured family-run establishment spanning six generations, was meticulously preserved during the construction of the Park Hyatt Kyoto. If you are a foodie, this restaurant is a must! The hotel also offers several exclusive dining experiences for hotel guests.

Recreation and Services: After a day of exploring Kyoto, the spa and wellness center offers a soothing retreat. It includes separate male and female locker rooms equipped with dry and wet saunas, as well as hot and cold plunge baths. In addition, guests can make use of the fitness center.

Suiran - Luxury Collection Hotel

Nestled in the peaceful Arashiyama district to the west of central Kyoto, Suiran offers a tranquil haven away from the city's hustle and bustle. Positioned alongside the banks of the Hozu River, it boasts captivating views of Mount Arashi and the iconic Togetsu Bridge. Suiran serves as an ideal retreat just a stone's throw from the city.

Accommodations: Suiran offers a selection of thirty-nine rooms available in five different sizes, ranging from moderate twin rooms to four distinct types of executive suites. Many of these rooms provide captivating views of the river and mountains, while a select few even feature private open-air spa baths with "onsen" (Japan's natural hot springs).

Dining: Suiran offers diverse dining experiences, with Teppanyaki Kanzan providing traditional teppanyaki featuring high-quality beef and fresh seafood cooked before your eyes, Kyo-Suiran offering Japanese cuisine with a French twist and Cafe Hassui, housed in a century-old historic building, providing river views and delightful afternoon tea.

Recreation and Services: One way to explore the area is to rent a boat and enjoy a lazy cruise along the Hozugawa river. The must-see in this area of Kyoto is the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

No matter which luxury Kyoto hotel you select, you're sure to make an excellent choice, complemented by the warm and welcoming hospitality of the Japanese people.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Japan. In need of further inspiration? Check out Judy Tudor’s guide OR trip report, Best New Four Seasons Tokyo Hotel.