Best Luxury Hotels in Kyoto
Found on the island of Honshu, Kyoto is often cited as the land’s cultural hub. It served as the Japanese capital and emperor’s residence from 794 until 1868. As a result, it’s packed with fascinating temples, Shinto shrines, museums, palaces and botanical gardens, some of which make up a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many national traditions – such as formal dining, tea ceremonies and geisha performances – are upheld, keeping tourists enthralled and putting it firmly on the sightseer’s map. It’s also home to artisan makers, artists and writers inspired by the large city’s ambience and rich heritage. And here are some of our favourite luxury hotels in beautiful Kyoto.
Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward
Fauchon Hotel Kyoto
(5 stars)AUCHON L’Hotel Kyoto brings French charm to Japan’s ancient capital as well as culinary delight thanks to Paris’ expert curators. This 5-star escape is a member of the leading hotels of the world and boasts gastronomic excellence in a chic, contemporary setting. Each of the hotel’s spectacular guestrooms and suites have been expertly designed using a blend of Western and Japanese textiles and craftsmanship, featuring elements of FAUCHON hotel’s signature pink and complete with FAUCHON’s Gourmet Bar. The Grand Café FAUCHON presents pristine French dishes and a panoramic view of Higashiyama. Guests can also enjoy delightful beverages in the Salon de Thé FAUCHON and Le Bar FAUCHON while Pâtisserie & Boutique FAUCHON offers only the finest sweet and savoury delicacies including macarons imported from Paris. Le Spa FAUCHON is home to a host of indulgent treatments and facilities for guests to enjoy. FAUCHON L’Hotel Kyoto also features stunning event and function space to make for the perfect wedding venue.
Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward
Four Seasons Kyoto
(5 stars)Be wowed by the incredible and ancient grounds of the Four Season Kyoto set amongst the ancient and scenic temple district. The hotel sits at the heart of the 800-year-old Shakusuien, a beautiful pond garden thought to have once been the garden of samurai Taira no Shigemori. The garden is so incredible it was immortalized in a 12th-century poem “The Tale of Heike”. The hotel itself is contemporary but rooted firmly in tradition, history and natural beauty. Décor is simple, elegant, and exudes typical Japanese minimalism. Rooms are tranquil, functional and bathed in natural light, some with peaceful garden views – a truly restorative view to wake up to. The hotel also features a stunning Michelin-starred Edo-style sushi restaurant, Sushi Wakon, and a great spa with a menu full of ancient healing rituals. The Four Seasons also offers a whole host of traditional experiences including the opportunity to experience the enigmatic charm of traditional Geishas at a kaiseki (multi-course) dinner featuring performances from the talented artisans, taking part in a traditional tea ceremony conducted by a tea master, and learning the art of making your own chibi-maru lantern with a 10th generation Kojima master.