Best Boutique Hotels in Kyoto

Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto, is a refined 39-room hot spring hotel on the banks of the Hozu River in Arashiyama, where emperors once held boating parties and poets came to write about the passing seasons. This exquisite estate dates back to a 13th-century imperial palace, and two of the hotel’s restaurants occupy century-old villas built for a baron. Today’s guests can enjoy a private open-air onsen fed by natural springs, and gardens carpeted in moss beneath maple and pine trees. Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel is a destination for all seasons, from the first cherry blossoms, when the evening cicadas sing to when the maple leaves turn yellow.

This secluded retreat was opened by The Banyan Tree Group in 2020, accommodating 25 balconied bedrooms. It faces Nijo-Jo Castle and features interior architecture in a flying geese formation, taking its cue from the castle and Katsura Imperial Villa. The interior design is by the world-renowned Yukio Hashimoto; here the outside is drawn in, with picture windows emphasising its lush garden surroundings; greenery, planting and a calming water feature akin to a serene mini lake with a tree island at its centre. Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto also accommodates the Singular restaurant serving French cuisine, a kitchen and a well-being lounge.

Within walking distance of attractions, this boutique hotel is ideally located close to the Kamo River. Antique and old-world pieces are woven among contemporary furnishings to tell the story of the area’s heritage and showcase traditional Japanese crafts. Grill 54th is the all-day dining venue with an open kitchen cooking up rare Wagyu beef, seafood and local specialities. While 1867 is the lounge bar offering afternoon tea, modern cocktails and pre-dinner drinks. Dhawa Yura also has a 24-hour gym and bedrooms ranging from doubles through to king or twin suites with C.O. Bigelow amenities.

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.