Kyoto is one of the oldest municipalities in Japan (photo courtesy Unsplash)
Banyan Tree announced this month that it has opened a stunning property in Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama Ward.
Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto has 52 stylish rooms, a Banyan Tree spa, a natural onsen and two dining spots. It’s also the only hotel in Kyoto with a ‘Noh’ stage. Noh theatre is a major form of classical Japanese dance-drama that has been performed since the 14th century.
“We’re thrilled to introduce Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto, a ‘sanctuary for the senses’ inspired by the quiet beauty of Kyoto,” said Banyan Group boss Philip Lin. “This represents a significant milestone for our flagship brand in Japan, blending Kyoto’s rich heritage with the unparalleled luxury and service synonymous with the Banyan Tree brand.” Banyan Group already operates sister properties including Dhawa, Garrya and Homm in Kyoto.
Kyoto is the capital of Kyoto Prefecture in the Kansai region of Japan’s largest and most populous island of Honshu.
Kyoto is one of the oldest municipalities in Japan and was chosen as the ‘new’ seat of Japan’s imperial court in 794. The original city was designed according to traditional Chinese feng shui, a layout which remains to this day. The emperors of Japan ruled from Kyoto until 1869 when the capital was moved to Tokyo.
Onsen Retreat rooms have soothing views over the surrounding bamboo forests
Kyoto is home to more than 1,500 Buddhist temples, 400 Shinto shrines and palaces and gardens, many of which have been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Must-see landmarks include the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Sento Imperial Palace, Kyoto Tower, Kiyomizu-dera, a beautiful wooden temple supported by pillars on a nearby mountain slope, Kinkaku-ji, the Temple of the Golden Pavilion, Katsura Imperial Villa which is considered one of Japan’s finest architectural treasures and Shugakuin Imperial Villa which boasts one of the country’s finest Japanese gardens.
Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto is located on a hilltop just steps from Kiyomizu-dera Temple and surrounded by a bamboo forest. Inspired by its location, the hotel’s design draws on traditional Japanese building techniques using natural materials like Cypress wood. Sweeping windows and generous spaces make the most of the surrounding landscape. Local experts have restored the hotel's gardens and bamboo grove, reflecting traditional Kyoto craftsmanship.
Rooms feature large Hiba wood tubs and tatami mats with city or garden views. Onsen Retreat rooms have private onsen baths overlooking the bamboo garden.
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