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Four Seasons Kyoto
PRICE: Worth maxing out for
Located near the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, just on the edge of the city’s historic Higashiyama district, Four Seasons Kyoto occupies a serene spot where the bustle of modern life feels a world away, integrating the best of Kyoto’s architectural heritage and natural beauty.
The building itself is a blend of contemporary design and traditional Japanese aesthetics. Designed by the renowned architect, Kengo Kuma, it integrates seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The hotel is low-rise, a respectful nod to the city’s skyline of pagodas and temples, allowing the forested grounds to become as much a part of the architecture as the structure itself. With a flowing, almost organic design, the hotel feels as if it has grown from the very soil of Kyoto, as though it belongs here in a way that few buildings can claim.
Inside, the atmosphere is calm and understated. The spacious lobby, with its rich wooden panels and minimalist decor, is designed to evoke a sense of peace, not grandeur. The warm tones of the materials used—wood, stone, and bronze—are a constant reminder of Kyoto’s deep connection to nature. Large windows frame views of the hotel’s lush Japanese garden, where carefully curated landscapes of water features, moss, and traditional stone lanterns create a meditative, almost timeless backdrop.
The rooms and suites are equally in tune with Kyoto’s history and nature. Simple yet luxurious, they feature floor-to-ceiling windows that offer sweeping views of the surrounding hills or the hotel’s meticulously designed garden. The interiors are a reflection of Japan’s minimalist approach, with tatami-inspired design elements, wooden screens, and contemporary furnishings that embrace both comfort and serenity.
Culinary options at the Four Seasons Kyoto are equally steeped in tradition yet infused with modern flair. The hotel’s restaurants, such as the Michelin-starred sushi bar, focus on seasonal ingredients from the region, offering an intimate experience of Kyoto’s famous food culture. The hotel’s on-site tea house adds yet another layer to its immersive cultural experience, where guests can participate in the ancient tea ceremony, and get a taste of this centuries-old practice.
The Four Seasons Kyoto is a destination in itself—one that allows guests to experience the quiet beauty of Kyoto in a way that few others can.
Four Seasons Kyoto: The Gallery
