Kyoto, Japan's ancient capital and cultural heart has welcomed numerous prestigious international hotel brands over the last ten year,s starting with Ritz Carlton in 2014 and there are more exciting openings to anticipate. Famed for its many temples, shrines, gardens, palaces, traditional Japanese architecture, and people whose modern lives are deeply connected to traditional culture and hospitality the city continues to evolve an extraordinary portfolio of uniquely Kyoto style luxury accommodation. With more openings on the way Kyoto is attracting premium clients who are drawn to the history and culture of the city, the new properties reflect the essence of Kyoto in their design and hospitality. Here we introduce recent and upcoming openings of note.

Dusit Thani Kyoto (opened September 2023) Dusit Thani Kyoto is located just 850 metres from Kyoto Station near the UNESCO World Heritage Site Nishi Hongwanji Temple in Kyoto's Hongwanji Monzen-machi.  The 147-guestroom property blends Japanese heritage with warm Thai hospitality in an elegant contemporary ambience. Drawing inspiration from Kyoto, Japan, and Ayutthaya, Thailand, the hotel evokes the architectural grandeur of both ancient capitals, the result is an urban oasis in the heart of Japan's cultural capital. The property has a signature Devarana Wellness centre, blending Thai massage techniques, Japanese rituals, and personalised wellness treatments.  Cuisine excellence is also a key focus with a diverse range of dining experiences on offer and a wide range of activities designed to enhance well-being and connect guests with the culture and spirituality of Kyoto. For more information, please visit https://www.dusit.com/dusitthani-kyoto/

Six Senses Kyoto (opening 23 April 2024) Another oasis is set to open in downtown Kyoto as the Six Senses brand makes an exciting debut into Japan.  In the historic Higashiyama district, Six Senses Kyoto holds a prime location with attractions such as Myoho-in Temple, Kyoto National Museum and Sanjusangen-do Buddhist Temple within easy walking distance. The 81 guest rooms and suites, range from 42 to 238 square metres, with quintessential Kyoto views of the peaceful central courtyard, the gardens of the Toyokuni Shrine, or the panorama of treetops, temples, tea houses, and rooftops. Authentic Japanese traditions and décor will be evident throughout the property, with unique accents inspired by local folklore, including the Moon Rabbit, and the 11th-century classic Tale of Genji. In a press release of 1 February 2024 announcing the opening date, General Manager, Nicolas Black, was quoted saying, “…There couldn't be a more fitting location than Kyoto in the cultural heart of Japan, where age-old sustainability traditions thrive, and well-being is deeply ingrained in the way of life." Official Press release: LINK                                                                            For more information, please visit  https://www.sixsenses.com/en/hotels/kyoto/

Banyan Tree Kyoto (opening 2024) Following on from the success of DHAWA YURA KYOTO, GARRYA Nijo Castle Kyoto, the Banyan Group confirms Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto will be opening in 2024. Located in a prime Higashiyama hilltop location just 650 metres away from Kyoto's Kiyomizu Temple on the former site of Hotel Ryozen built in the 1960s. The 52-guestroom luxury urban resort will have spectacular views across Kyoto City. This property is set to be the first and only hotel in Kyoto to have a Noh stage, a traditional Japanese performance space specifically designed for Noh, a classical Japanese theatrical art form dating back over 600 years.

Capella Kyoto (opening 2025) In the historic Miyagawa-chō district, Capella Kyoto is another luxury property designed by Kengo Kuma and Associates. The 92-guestroom property will pay homage to Kyoto city's rich heritage through its curation of Japanese artworks and artefacts. Located just minutes away from the Miyagawa-chō Kaburenjo theatre for geiko and maiko dances, the contemporary guest rooms will be carefully designed with respect for the legacy of Kyoto's geisha traditions.

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Tourism Garden is the official marketing and public relations representative for Kyoto City Tourism Association in Australia.