THE RITZ-CARLTON KYOTO
Arriving at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is a bit like stepping into a serene Japanese ink painting. The building itself is a modern interpretation of a traditional sukiya-zukuri architectural style, blending effortlessly into the picturesque surroundings of the Kamo River. It’s almost as if the structure bows in respect to the ancient temples and shrines that pepper the city. The façade is understated—wooden latticework and natural stone marry tradition with contemporary design. Even the entrance feels like an invitation to leave the hustle of the world behind, replacing it with the calm grace of Kyoto itself.
As you pull up, you might first notice the manicured gardens that frame the building—subtle and refined, just like the hotel itself. The gentle trickle of water from nearby fountains provides the first whisper of tranquility you’ll come to expect throughout your stay. Stepping through the doors, you’re greeted with the soft, warm lighting that highlights the wood and stone interior, immediately washing over you with a sense of calm. It’s a space where luxury feels inherent, not imposed.
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto isn’t about grand opulence; it’s about thoughtful luxury. The common areas are designed as peaceful retreats, perfect for unwinding after a day exploring Kyoto’s ancient streets. The lobby, with its high ceilings and walls adorned with carefully selected artworks, feels more like a gallery than a hotel entrance. The décor leans heavily on natural materials—think soft woods, smooth stones, and delicate paper lanterns that cast a soft, welcoming glow.
Moving through the hotel, the sense of space and light is omnipresent. The lounges and public areas are airy, with floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the outside in. And speaking of the outside, the inner courtyard garden is a masterpiece of minimalism. It’s a place to sit with a cup of matcha and lose yourself in the art of shakkei—borrowed scenery—where the meticulously placed rocks and plants seem to blend seamlessly with the distant mountains.
For those who appreciate a good book, the library offers a quiet escape, with shelves lined with literature that invites you to slow down and savor the moment. It’s a place where you can feel the weight of history, yet the air is light with the promise of comfort and luxury.
THE ROOMS
The rooms at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto are where tradition meets indulgence, creating spaces that are both luxurious and deeply rooted in Japanese aesthetics. The rooms are a tranquil retreat with expansive views of either the river or the hotel’s serene gardens. The use of natural materials continues here, with soft tatami mats underfoot, shoji screens that let in filtered light, and deep soaking tubs that beckon after a long day.
The suites upgrade our serenity with a healthy dose of substance. Take the Garden Terrace Suite, which offers a private outdoor garden where you can practice your morning yoga or simply sip tea while listening to the gentle rustle of leaves. Or the Kamogawa Suite, named after the nearby Kamo River, where you can gaze out at the water from your spacious living room, feeling as if you’re part of the serene landscape beyond.
The Tsukimi Suite is the crown jewel, with over 140 square meters of pure, unadulterated luxury. With a panoramic view of the Higashiyama Mountains from the moon-viewing deck, a Japanese garden lit by historic lanterns, a private dining room, and a bathroom that rivals some spas, this suite is where you go when you want to experience Kyoto’s grandeur in the most intimate setting possible.
DINING
Dining at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is all about celebrating Kyoto’s rich culinary heritage without the need for excessive fanfare. The hotel boasts several dining options, each offering a distinct take on local and international cuisine.
At Mizuki, the hotel’s signature restaurant, the food is separated by experience, offering a true culinary journey of Japan’s traditional cooking methods. At Kaiseki Mizuki, the focus is in the name—the Japanese art of seasonal tasting menus. The chefs take pride in sourcing the freshest ingredients from Kyoto’s local markets, ensuring that every bite is a reflection of the seasons. The adjacent Sushi Mizuki features an 11-meter-long Wajima lacquered bar to enjoy Edomae-style sushi. Over at Teppan Mizuki, sit around a live cooking teppanyaki grill for lobster and Japanese beef steak prepared in the open kitchen. And, enjoy some of the best tempura shrimp you’ve had at the eight-seat counter of Tempura Mizuki.
If you’re in the mood for something less traditional, La Locanda offers a taste of Italy in the heart of Kyoto. The menu is a delightful blend of classic Italian dishes and modern interpretations, all served in a setting that feels like a Tuscan villa transported to Japan. The wine list is extensive, with both Italian and Japanese selections that pair perfectly with the menu.
And for those with a sweet tooth, The Lobby Lounge is the place to indulge in afternoon tea. The selection of delicate pastries and Japanese sweets, served with a side of matcha or a pot of rare tea, is the perfect way to spend an afternoon, especially if you’re lucky enough to snag a seat by the window overlooking the gardens.
WELLNESS
No stay is complete without a visit to the spa, and The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto’s Spa & Fitness is a sanctuary of relaxation. Inspired by Kyoto’s rich tradition of wellness, the spa offers a range of treatments that draw on both local and international practices.
The Kyoto Bamboo Ritual is a must-try—a treatment that uses bamboo sticks to relieve muscle tension and improve circulation. It’s as soothing as it is invigorating, leaving you feeling like you’ve just shed a layer of stress. For those seeking a more traditional experience, the Hinoki Bath Ritual offers the chance to soak in a tub made from fragrant Japanese cypress, a practice that dates back centuries and is believed to promote relaxation and healing.
The fitness center, though small, is well-equipped with everything you need to keep up your routine. But if you’re more inclined to take your exercise outdoors, the hotel offers guided morning jogs along the Kamo River, a peaceful way to start your day in Kyoto.
EVENTS
When it comes to hosting a meeting or wedding at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto, the setting itself sets the tone for an event that’s as elegant as it is memorable. The hotel’s event spaces are a harmonious blend of modern luxury and traditional Japanese aesthetics, offering a serene backdrop for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a corporate gathering or a milestone celebration, the venues here are designed to impress. The ballroom, with its soft lighting and warm wood accents, feels intimate yet grand, making it perfect for both large-scale weddings and more focused business meetings. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow natural light to pour in, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere that’s enhanced by views of the lush gardens just outside.
For weddings, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto provides a setting where every detail is meticulously crafted to create a day of pure elegance. The wedding chapel, with its minimalist design and soft hues, offers a tranquil space for exchanging vows, while the outdoor terrace presents a picturesque spot for a cocktail reception with panoramic views of the Kamo River and surrounding mountains. The hotel is dedicated to making every moment special, from personalized menus featuring Kyoto's finest ingredients to floral arrangements that reflect the natural beauty of the region. Whether you envision a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, the spaces at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto ensure your event will be as timeless as the city itself.
EXPERIENCES
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto’s location is ideal for exploring the city’s cultural treasures. A short walk from the hotel, you’ll find the famous Gion district, where you can catch a glimpse of maiko (apprentice geishas) and geiko (Kyoto-dialect word for geisha) hurrying to their appointments in traditional tea houses. Or, take a leisurely stroll to the Kyoto Imperial Palace, where you can wander through the gardens and imagine life in ancient Japan.
For those interested in shopping, the nearby Nishiki Market is a food lover’s paradise, with stalls selling everything from fresh seafood to traditional sweets. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs or just sample the local delicacies.
KAX will arrange activities for those looking to delve deeper into Japanese culture. You can try your hand at a traditional tea ceremony, learn the art of flower arranging, or even take a calligraphy class. These experiences are led by local experts, ensuring that you get an authentic taste of Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is a gateway to experiencing the refined elegance of Kyoto itself. Whether you’re here to explore the city’s ancient temples or simply to relax in the lap of luxury, this hotel offers an experience that is both timeless and modern, steeped in tradition yet effortlessly contemporary. It’s a place where every detail has been considered, where luxury is not about excess, but about creating moments of peace, beauty, and understated elegance. So, pack your bags, bring your sense of curiosity, and get ready to experience Kyoto in a way that only The Ritz-Carlton can offer.
