Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over 1,000 years, beginning in 794, when Emperor Kammu made the city the seat of his Imperial court and the center of Japan’s political world. This long and prestigious history led to the development of many of the refined arts we now associate with Japan.
Having been to Kyoto many times, I can say on the surface it can appear a bit blah, and like any other Japanese mid-sized city. But food and culture is everywhere, though much is tucked here and there, needing a bit of exploring.
KIX Kansai International Airport which also serves Osaka, is the main airport in the region. And though you may be tempted to have car service from the airport, the best and fastest is taking the JR Limited Express Haruka, to the main station in Kyoto.
The Shinkansen (Bullet Train) is the my suggested option when coming from Tokyo.
For Japan in general, Spring and late Autumn (Oct / Nov) are my favorite times to be in Japan. The summers can get hot and muggy and typhoons are common in August and September. Winters can get bitter cold, though tend to be on the drier side.
Mid-March to April is Cherry Blossom Season and is considered a “High Season”, so pricing goes up and many fine hotels reach maximum bookings, so do plan ahead if wanting to visit during this time.
Kita Ward / Genkō-an Temple
Size: 26 rooms and suites
Style: Contemporary Japan
Year Opened: 2019
Designer/Architect: Kerry Hill
Just a mile from famed Buddhist temples lies a secret forest garden and Aman Kyoto. Surrounded by ancient woodlands that once offered refuge to a revered artist community, this secluded sanctuary pays homage to the traditional ryokan (Japanese inn), albeit in strikingly modern style. Moss-covered stone pathways wind between latticed pavilions that house 26 minimalistic rooms; healing onsen baths source their waters from nearby mineral springs. Practice yoga, take a mindfulness hike, or explore Kyoto’s 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites.
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Arashiyama District
Size: 22 rooms and suites
Style: Updated Ryokan
Just on the outskirts of Kyoto, it requires a ten minute cruise up the Ooigawa (Katsura River). This still is one of my favorite Hotels in Kyoto, though not the most convenient, so not recommended for a business traveller. All 25 beautifully designed rooms offer a view of Arashiyama’s beautiful Ooigawa. One of the best Japan has to offer.
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the hills above central Kyoto
Size: 70 rooms and suites
Style: Contemporary
Year Opened: 2019
Designer/Architect: Tony Chi
Park Hyatt Kyoto offers an elegant hillside retreat in the heart of bustling Higashiyama, with easy access to the heart of Tokyo. Designed as the quintessential guesthouse, the hotel’s 70 spacious rooms and suites radiate a Zen vibe while highlighting local craftsmanship with warm tamo wood and original artworks. Eye the famous Yasaka Pagoda over local, seasonal fare in signature Yasaka restaurant, or savor authentic Japanese kaiseki cuisine in the family-run Kyoyamato. The hotel is just steps away from Ninen-zaka’s merchant shops and teahouses.
2023 #30
PART OF MY HYATT PREFERRED PARTNER PRIVÉ PORTFOLIO
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Nijo-jo Castle
Size: 160 rooms and suites
Style: Contemporary Japanese / Modern Design & Lively
Year Opened: 2023
Designer/Architect: Andre Fu
Built on the historic estate of the Mitsui family, the Mitsui Kyoto is something totally unique. Guests enter the estate through a landmark 300-year-old gate, just across from the UNESCO-listed Nijo-jo Castle, before making their way into this stunning luxury hotel. Designed by a team of Japanese artists and architects led by the Hong Kong–based Andre Fu, it’s a feast for the eyes, and for all the other senses as well.
PART OF MY MARRIOTT STARS PORTFOLIO
You get additional Amenities when I manage your reservation.
• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom
• $100usd (or more) F&B or Spa Credit
• Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
and more
Central Kyoto
Style: Contemporary
Year Opened: 2020
Designer/Architect: Atelier Ace
The first Ace hotel in Asia is the Ace Hotel Kyoto, designed by Kengo Kuma and Commune Design. (We won’t be offended if you stop reading right there, and go straight to selecting your dates.) Kuma’s primary contribution as architect was his powerful revision of an early modernist telephone exchange by Tetsuro Yoshida, a departure from the minimalist-luxe concrete symphonies we’re used to. And Commune and Kuma together were responsible for adapting Ace’s eclectic, bohemian aesthetic to Kyoto, paying tribute to this historic city without falling into shoji-screen clichés.
I AM A MICHELIN PREFERRED PARTNER
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Shugakuin Yabusoe
This is a must see and plan to spend half a day (or more) here. But you need to get your tickets arranged prior to arrival, by a few weeks or more.
Weather permiting, this is a fun trek along the Katsura River.
Before or after your Romantic Train Ride, enjoy this very Instagramable site!
A Guide to Kyoto, Japan Through the City’s Craft Scene
Getting to know Kyoto means getting crafty in the former capital of Japan.
► My Virtuoso Kyoto Japan Information Page
Here is a good place to start for some additional information on quality Hotels, Water Adventures and Activities.
► WIKIVOYAGE: Kyoto Japan Page
A great resource for all the basic information you may want for Kyoto Japan.
Japan General Information Page
with Visa & Entry Requirements
Tokyo General Information Page
or leave a comment below
page updated: August 2024
images courtesy: Wikimedia Commons, Japan Tourism Board
Please Note: All Hotel / Resort / Cruise / Services Amenities are subject to availability and may have changed since the date of this being published.
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