This ryokan-inspired hotel is a good mix of Japanese minimalism, Ritz-Carlton swagger and contemporary service. It’s a comforting blend of east and west, in a stunning riverside setting.
Stay at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto takes its cues from traditional Japanese ryokans, with rock gardens, bonsai trees, shoji doors and serenity. This was the first international luxury hotel in Kyoto and western sensibilities have their place too, notably in the room design and layout. It’s reassuringly familiar without looking and feeling out of place in the old city.
Location
Scenically set along the Kamogawa River looking towards the Higashiyama mountains. Yet within a short cycle or walk to some of Kyoto’s key attractions. It’s tranquil and relatively central at the same time.
Rooms
At 50 square metres, the entry-level rooms are well sized compared to the usual in Japan. The design is Japanese inspired but the look and layout is much closer to Ritz-Carlton than the land of the rising sun (except for the Garden Terrace Tatami room). The biggest factor in room choice is the view, as most rooms either don’t have one or look towards a drab part of the city. River-facing rooms and suites on the higher floors are best.
Who is it for
The rooms and facilities definitely suit couples over families. Overall, it’s a quiet place and there’s not much space for kids. It’s nice on a first-time visit to Japan, as you have one foot in somewhere local and the other in somewhere international and familiar.
Facilities & activities
The service is excellent, international in style with a Japanese attention to detail. The dining is very good too. Other facilities are limited though, notably the lack of outdoor space in the hotel. There’s a spa and gym but they’re nothing special and we’d expect the hotel to offer a little more in terms of facilities. On the other hand, do you need much more than the treasures of Kyoto all around you?
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto Photo Gallery
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