Four Seasons Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

Step between the paper lanterns and ikebana floral arrangements of the lobby at Kyoto’s Four Seasons hotel to enter a tranquil oasis in the city’s heart. This elegant, luxurious stay provides the tenants of traditional Japanese hospitality amid contemporary design. Surrounded by some of Kyoto’s oldest buildings and temples, the hotel’s modern architecture stands-out – an angular, cubist property partly veiled by the green curves of its ikeniwa garden. An ancient-style of planting, the verdant buffer between hotel and city offers dancing maple foliage, a postcard-ready tea house and – in spring – fluttering cherry blossom that’s photographed ritualistically by city inhabitants. Guests can enjoy stunning views of Kyoto’s swooping rooftops from one of 123 rooms and take advantage of the on-site spa. Facilities are first-class: dip into the low-lit basement pool, sweat it out in the pine-wood saunas, then cool off in a ofuru shower. Treatments nod to Japanese ritual, with Zen-focused massages and tanba salt scrubs. Come evening, a lucky few grab a reservation at the memorable 10-cover Sushi Wakon – but The Brasserie, with its garden-gazing terrace, offers a consolatory alternative, serving a Asian-European menu all day.

Key Information

• Rooms: 123
• Starting Rate: $1205
• High Season: Mar- Apr
• Dining: Sushi Wakon
• Drinking: The Lounge & Bar
• At the Hotel: Spa, boutique, fitness centre, indoor pool, garden, tea ceremonies, art collection, beauty salon, flower shop, bike rental, business centre, art tours
• 81755418288
• Visit Four Seasons Kyoto's Website

Location

445-3 Myohoin Maekawacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0932