While Kyoto is beloved for its cultural heritage, the city is hardly stuck in the past. There’s a new generation of creative artisans at work – and a surge in recent hotel openings. Once mostly boutique and traditional, the local scene has been transformed by the arrival of design-forward properties and big luxury brands. From the Ace to the Aman, we highlight hotels in Kyoto that will inspire your next visit.
Japanese architect Kengo Kuma and California’s Commune Design bring an east-meets-west approach to the Ace Hotel Kyoto . Opened in June 2020, it’s bolder and bigger than most hotels in Kyoto, stretching across a new-build and the 1926-era Kyoto Central Telephone Office. The 213 rooms have retro turntables, bright upholstery, washi paper ceilings and stencil-dyed textiles by nonagenarian Samiro Yunoki – a pioneer of Japan’s craft movement. Suites forgo western-style beds for futons with tatami mats.
As ever with Ace, the hotel is as much a place to hang out as a place to stay. Clusters of seating give the lobby a lounge vibe; Piopiko offers up LA-style tacos and a private karaoke room; Mr. Maurice’s Italian does pizza and roof terrace drinks; and coffee cult favourite Stumptown’s first Japan outlet is also here.
245-2 Kurumayacho, Nakagyo-ku; +81 75 229 9001
A corporate dynasty with deep Kyoto roots, the Mitsui family built this flagship hotel on the grounds of the family’s former residence opposite Nijo Castle. It’s transporting to enter beneath Kajiimiya Gate – restored to its 1703 glory – and follow a path through bamboo trees to the lobby. At the hotel’s heart is a courtyard with a weeping cherry tree, rock formations and lanterns. Another standout feature is the spa, which has the only natural hot spring onsen of any downtown luxury property.
Hong Kong designer Andre Fu