My dear travellers and lovers of unusual journeys, welcome to the new series of travelogues on the Mr.M blog. There are places in this world where time stands still, where past and present intertwine in perfect harmony, and where every corner tells a story that goes back centuries. Park Hyatt Kyoto is just such a place. Located on the hilly slopes of Higashiyama, Kyoto’s most famous historic district, this hotel is much more than just accommodation, it is a gateway to a world of Japanese tradition, craftsmanship and breathtaking hospitality.
Before starting today’s travelogue about Kyoto, I want to express my special thanks to the United Nations World Tourism Organization – UN Tourism and Park Hyatt Kyoto for supporting and promoting quality tourism around the world. Their dedication to connecting cultures and destinations is an inspiration to all of us who believe that travel enriches the soul.
The moment I stepped into the entrance of this incredible hotel, surrounded by traditional Japanese gardens and undulating ceramic tile roofs, I knew I was in for an experience I would remember for a lifetime. The smell of the wood there, the quiet murmur of water in the stone trough and the view of the legendary Hōkan-ji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda) in the distance, all spoke of the attention paid to every detail.
PARK HYATT KYOTO: THE HISTORY AND HERITAGE THAT DEFINES THIS HOTEL
Park Hyatt Kyoto opened on October 30, 2019 as the second hotel of this prestigious brand in Japan, but its story goes back much further. The hotel is built on land it shares with the Kyoyamato restaurant, a family institution that has existed since 1877 and has been run by the same family for seven generations.
What makes this hotel truly special is the fact that its grounds are home to historic buildings dating back to the Edo period. One of them is Sojo-tei, a more than 300-year-old tea house, where feudal lords used to meet secretly. These ancient structures have been carefully restored and integrated into the modern hotel complex, creating a unique blend of old and new.
The construction of the hotel was quite an undertaking that required compliance with the strict regulations of the Kyoto Protected Beauty Zone. The company Takenaka, one of the largest architecture and construction firms in Japan with a tradition longer than 300 years, took over this project. Together with award-winning interior designer Tony Chi, they created a facility that blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape of traditional machi houses and temples.
The hotel has only 70 rooms, including nine suites, which is a deliberate decision made in order to preserve harmony with the surroundings. Unlike typical hotels that aim for 150 to 200 rooms for profitability, here priority is given to quality of experience and respect for cultural heritage.
The Pricker Garden at the entrance of the hotel, named after the Executive Chairman of the Hyatt Hotels Corporation, Thomas Pricker, deserves special attention. It features 300-million-year-old stones personally selected by renowned landscape architect Yasuo Kitayama and shipped from Aspen, Colorado. In addition, there are stones from Horiu-ji Temple, which previously decorated the garden of Kyoyamato Restaurant.
PARK HYATT KYOTO: A BREATHTAKING LOCATION
As a tourist I could say that the location of the Park Hyatt Kyoto is exceptional, but honestly that’s an understatement. The hotel is located just off the famous Ninenzaka Street, home to Kyoto’s largest collection of heritage buildings and the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
Stepping out of the hotel, you are immediately in the heart of the Higashiyama district, where cobbled streets meander between traditional wooden houses, teahouses and souvenir shops. It feels like you’ve stepped into a time machine that takes you back several centuries.
From the higher floors of the hotel and from many rooms, there is a stunning view of the Yasaka Pagoda, a 46-meter-high five-story Buddhist tower that is one of the most recognizable symbols of Kyoto. This pagoda is the last remnant of the sixth-century Hokan-ji temple complex and is considered the oldest building in Kyoto. Legend has it that it was built by Prince Shotoku in 589, inspired by a dream of the Buddha.
The architects of the hotel paid particular attention to the position and height of the restaurant and bar in order not to disturb this scene. The result is a perfectly framed panorama of ancient Kyoto that changes with each part of the day, from the morning mist, to the afternoon sun, to the magical sunset when the pagoda casts long shadows over the city.
PARK HYATT KYOTO: MY PARK SUITE EXPERIENCE
For my stay, I chose the Park Suite, the hotel’s standard suite that covers an impressive 68 square meters. The apartment has a separate living room and bedroom, giving the feeling of a real residence rather than a hotel room.
The first impression upon entering was the smell, a subtle aroma of that wood that permeates the entire space. This wood, characteristic of Japanese architecture, is used throughout the interior, from the floors to the furniture, creating a warm and soothing atmosphere. The design concept is inspired by the surrounding mountains, with natural materials that connect the guest with tradition and nature.
The bed with premium bedding was extremely comfortable and the large floor to ceiling windows offered spectacular views of Kyoto. A desk and a day bed further complemented the space, offering flexibility for work or relaxation.
The bathroom was a design masterpiece in itself. Gray Juperana granite dominated the space, with a deep soaking tub inviting relaxation after a long day of exploring the city. Double sinks and luxurious Aesop toiletries completed the experience. The scents of bergamot, incense and cedar from the shampoo and conditioner turned every shower into a spa ritual.
I was particularly impressed by the attention to detail. On the table in the room, I was greeted by a seasonal selection, two types of kočak with an accompanying card explaining their origin. It was just a hint of the extraordinary Japanese hospitality that awaited me.
For guests staying in the apartments, the hotel offers a special benefit, unlimited champagne in The Living Room part of the hotel every day from 17:00 to 18:00. Sitting next to a crackling fireplace, a glass of Ruinart champagne in hand, while shadows fall on the ancient roofs outside, is the definition of luxury in Japanese hospitality.
PARK HYATT KYOTO: A GASTRONOMIC JOURNEY THROUGH TRADITION
One of the highlights of staying at the Park Hyatt Kyoto hotel is definitely the gastronomy. The hotel offers four different catering facilities, but the real star is the Kyoyamato restaurant, whose traditional kaiseki cuisine has been awarded two Michelin stars.
Kyoyamato is not just a restaurant, it is a cultural institution that has existed since 1877 and is run by the seventh generation of the Sakaguchi family. Ms. Junko Sakaguchi, the current owner, is a recipient of the 2025 Michelin Service Award, which speaks volumes for the level of hospitality you can expect.
A kaiseki meal in a private room overlooking a garden that is more than a hundred years old is an experience that goes beyond an ordinary dinner. Each plate is an artistic composition that reflects the season, each flavor carefully balanced, and every detail, from the flower arrangement to the calligraphy on the wall, changes according to the season.
For breakfast, I chose a traditional Japanese meal prepared by Kyoyamato, and it was the right decision. Bento boxes filled with tofu dishes, vegetables characteristic of Kyoto, omelet folded into a roll, miso soup and rice presented a veritable realm of flavors. Each small bowl was perfection in itself.
Yasaka Restaurant offers a unique experience of teppanyaki cooking with French influences, with a spectacular view of Yasaka Pagoda. Watching a skilled chef prepare premium ingredients from Kyoto and all over Japan on a hot plate is a real gastronomic spectacle.
For a more casual atmosphere, there’s Kyoto Bistro, a street-side restaurant that offers comfort food in an open kitchen. It is particularly interesting that all dishes are served on handmade ceramics created by Asahiyaki, a local master potter whose tradition goes back more than 400 years to the city of Uji.
The Living Room is another place where I spent time, enjoying afternoon tea and light bites with the smell of tamo wood from the open fireplace. It’s the perfect place to start or end your day.
PARK HYATT KYOTO: SPA AND WELLNESS CENTER
On the third floor of the hotel is the Wellness Center, an oasis of peace that combines a fitness center, a spa and a luxurious bathroom. As soon as I stepped into this space, I felt the tension leave my body.
Spa treatments are inspired by the spiritual atmosphere of Kyoto and use Kotoshina brand products, organic cosmetics from the Uji region, famous for its tea plantations. The hotel’s signature treatment lasts 150 minutes and combines a body massage with a facial treatment, using specially formulated essential oils that soothe and balance.
The bath (onsen-style area) with separate rooms for men and women offers a hot and cold pool, dry and steam sauna. Although it is not large, it perfectly suits the intimate atmosphere of the hotel. Opening hours are from 7am to 10pm, but the staff told me I could stay a little longer if I wanted, another example of Japanese hospitality.
The fitness center is open 24 hours a day, which is perfect for those suffering from jet lag. The equipment is modern and well maintained, and the space is equipped with headphones, water, fruit and towels. The structure is interesting, a long corridor with different equipment arranged laterally.
For those who like to exercise in the room, the hotel provides a set of weights, a yoga mat and even fitness shoes for free, just call the reception.
PARK HYATT KYOTO: WHAT TO DO IN THE SURROUNDINGS?
One of the biggest advantages of the Park Hyatt Kyoto Hotel is its location, which allows exploring the most important sights of Kyoto on foot. Here is what you can visit in the immediate vicinity.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is just a fifteen-minute walk uphill from the hotel. This UNESCO World Heritage temple is known for its wooden terrace that juts 13 meters above the slope, built without a single nail. The view of the city from this terrace is one of the most beautiful in all of Japan.
Yasaka Pagoda, which can be seen from many hotel rooms, is available for weekend tours. Climbing the stairs into the interior of this ancient building and observing the city through the small windows is a unique experience.
Kodai-ji Temple, built in 1605 in memory of the great military leader Toyotomi Hideyoshi, is famous for its Zen gardens and tea pavilions. It is especially spectacular during the fall foliage.
Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets represent the quintessence of old Kyoto. These paved paths lined with traditional wooden houses, teahouses and souvenir shops offer the perfect opportunity to take photos and buy traditional Japanese handicrafts.
The Gion district, the famous geisha district, is a short walk away. Hanami-koji Street, with its machija houses converted into restaurants and teahouses, offers a glimpse into the world of traditional Japanese entertainment. If you’re lucky, you might see the Maiko (an apprentice geisha) rushing off to an evening engagement.
Yasaka Shrine, host to the famous Gion Matsuri Festival, is impressive at any time of the day, but especially in the evening when the lanterns along the approach are lit.
For those who want to explore further, Park Hyatt Kyoto organizes exclusive tours such as a private visit to Kiyomizu-dera Temple with a sermon by the head priest and access to areas normally closed to the public. The hotel also offers Zen meditation and tea ceremony as part of the cultural experiences.
If you have more time, I also recommend visiting the northern part of Higashiyama. The Philosopher’s Path (Tecugaku no michi) leads from the Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji) to Nanzen-ji Temple, following a canal lined with cherry trees. This two-kilometer walk is especially magical during the cherry blossoms in spring.
PARK HYATT KYOTO: ARCHITECTURE THAT TELLS A STORY
The architecture of the Park Hyatt Kyoto Hotel deserves a separate chapter because it represents a real effort to balance modern needs and respect for tradition. The Japanese concept of teioku-ichinjo, which translates as the unity of garden and house, permeates the entire design of the hotel. The boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces are deliberately blurred, creating the feeling that nature flows through the building itself.
The hotel’s roofs are designed to mimic the undulating rows of traditional ceramic hoses that characterize Kyoto’s historic architecture. Seen from the surrounding hills, the hotel fits perfectly into the mosaic of greyish roofs that stretches all the way to the horizon. This decision was not only aesthetic, the strict regulations of the protected zone required that no element disturb the visual harmony of the centuries-old landscape.
The interior space reflects the Japanese architectural concepts of oku to tsugi, which means inner depth and interval. Passageways, staircases and corridors are designed to gradually reveal the space, creating a sense of travel and discovery. There are no sudden transitions or shocking contrasts anywhere, everything flows organically, as nature itself flows.
The materials used in the construction were carefully selected for their ability to reflect subtle changes of light and shadow. The dark ceramic tiles at the entrance, the light texture of Japanese cypress and ash, and the unique marble granite, all change their character depending on the time of day and season.
The hotel is a low-rise building spanning seven floors, but due to the configuration of the terrain, many of the rooms on the higher floors offer views that far exceed their nominal height. The architects took advantage of the natural height differences of the terrain to maximize views of the historic district, while ensuring privacy for each guest.
PARK HYATT KYOTO: CULTURAL EXPERIENCES AND ACTIVITIES
Park Hyatt Kyoto offers much more than ordinary hotel accommodation, it is the starting point for a deep immersion in Japanese culture. The hotel organizes a whole range of cultural experiences that allow guests to understand and experience the traditions that define this ancient city.
One of the most exclusive offers is a private tour of Kiyomizu-dera Temple accompanied by the head priest. This rare opportunity includes a sermon and access to parts of the temple that are usually closed to the public. For someone who appreciates the spiritual dimension of travel, this experience is priceless.
The tea ceremony is another way to touch the core of Japanese culture. In an authentic tea house on the hotel’s grounds, an expert guides you through the ritualistic movements of preparing sword tea, explaining the philosophy behind each gesture. Silence, focus on the present moment and respect for simplicity are all values that the tea ceremony has passed down for centuries.
Zen meditation at nearby temples is available to guests who wish to experience the contemplative side of Japanese spirituality. To sit in silence, surrounded by the stone garden of the old masters, and let the thoughts pass like clouds in the sky, is an experience that changes you from the inside.
For those with an artistic bent, the hotel can organize calligraphy or ikebana (Japanese flower arrangement) workshops. Both skills require concentration, patience and respect for tradition, qualities that characterize the entire Japanese culture.
The hotel is also the perfect starting point for exploring the Gion district, home of geisha (known in Kyoto as geiko) and their female students (mothers). Although geisha are extremely private and should not be disturbed, the very ambiance of the quarter of the wooden machi house, the lit lanterns and the soft sound of the shamisen guitar from the closed teahouses conveys the magic of this ancient world.
SEASONAL EXPERIENCES IN KYOTO
Kyoto is a city that changes its face dramatically with each season and Park Hyatt Kyoto celebrates this transformation in every possible way. Restaurant menus, room decorations and even spa treatments adapt to the current season.
Spring brings hanami, the cherry blossom viewing season. In this period, Maruyama Park in the immediate vicinity of the hotel becomes the most sought-after place in the city for a picnic under the cherry trees. The hotel offers special arrangements that include a sakura-themed high tea party.
Summer is the time of the Gion Matsuri Festival, one of the three biggest festivals in Japan. Processions of huge floats (yamaboko) pass through the streets, and the whole city comes alive in an atmosphere of celebration. The hotel is perfectly positioned to follow these events.
Autumn transforms Higashiyama into a palette of red, orange and gold tones. Momijigari, a traditional viewing of autumn leaves, attracts millions of visitors, and temples such as Kiyomizu-dera and Kodai-ji organize nightly illuminations that create an unreal atmosphere.
Winter, although cold, offers its own charm. Less crowds, peaceful atmosphere and the chance to see rare snowy scenes of ancient temples make this season special. The hotel offers a cozy retreat with a fireplace in the living room and warm kaiseki meals that warm the soul.
PRACTICAL TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS
Getting to the hotel requires a bit of planning as it is located in the historic area without direct metro access. From Kyoto station, it is best to take city bus number 206 or 86 to Kiyomizu-michi station, then walk for ten minutes. Alternatively, a taxi ride from the station costs around ¥2000.
If you are coming from Kansai Airport in Osaka, I recommend the limousine bus to Kyoto Station and then the local bus to the hotel. The whole journey takes about two hours, but it is significantly more economical than a direct taxi. The hotel has parking with prior reservation for those traveling by car.
As for reservations, Park Hyatt Kyoto is an extremely popular hotel with only 70 rooms, so early reservations are a must, especially during cherry blossom season in the spring and fall foliage season.
For dinner at the Kyoyamato restaurant, advance reservations are required. Please contact the hotel directly as this restaurant is independent of the hotel’s points and loyalty system.
As for the wardrobe, I recommend dressing in layers because you will probably spend time both in air-conditioned rooms and outdoors. Comfortable footwear is a must given the amount of walking on Higashiyama’s cobbled and often steep streets.
The best time to photograph Sannenzaka Street overlooking Yasaka Pagoda is early in the morning, before the crowds of tourists appear. Get up a little earlier, take advantage of the perfect golden hour light, and you’ll have photos that look like postcards.
For shopping for traditional souvenirs, the streets around the hotel offer everything from Kiyomizu-yaka ceramics, to fans and umbrellas, to teas and sweets. Prices are higher than in other parts of Japan, but the quality of craftsmanship justifies the investment.
PARK HYATT KYOTO: CATEGORIES OF ROOMS AND SUITES
In addition to the Park Suite where I stayed, the hotel offers a variety of accommodation options. Standard rooms of 45 square meters are equipped with a king bed or two twin beds, a desk and a day bed. Each room has a view of either the garden or the city.
Pagoda View rooms offer exactly what the name suggests, a spectacular view of the ancient Yasaka Pagoda and the rooftops of Kyoto. The sunset seen from these rooms is an unforgettable sight.
For guests who want more space, there are Deluxe rooms of 68 square meters that offer an even better perspective of the city. This category also includes access to Garden Terrace rooms that have a private Japanese garden with seating area.
At the top of the range are Higashiyama House (90 square meters) and Pagoda House (135 square meters), a rooftop residence with a kitchen, living room and the most spectacular views in the hotel. This room literally floats above the city, offering a panorama that stretches from the pagoda to the distant mountains.
All rooms feature herringbone wall textiles, luxury linens, mini bar, safe and individual climate controls. Hotel staff provide an assortment of complimentary amenities upon request, from baby shampoo and deodorant to eye masks and instant noodles as a midnight snack.
WHY SHOULD YOU STAY AT THE PARK HYATT KYOTO?
Park Hyatt Kyoto is not a hotel for everyone. Not for those looking for flashy luxury, loud entertainment or modern wonders. This is a place for those who appreciate subtlety, tradition and a deep connection with the place.
Every detail of this hotel, from the ceramic tiles at the entrance that reflect subtle changes of light and shadow, to the fragrant tamo wood in the rooms, to the view of the ancient pagoda at dusk, is designed to connect you with the spirit of Kyoto, the city that has been the capital of Japan for more than a thousand years.
A stay here is not just an overnight stay, it is a journey through time and culture, an experience that reminds you why we travel. To feel something different, learn something new and, if only for a short time, live in a world that is not ours.
The hotel staff deserves special praise. From the moment you step into the driveway, every member of the team is dedicated to making your stay memorable. There is no rush at check-in, they bring you tea or a drink of your choice and give you time to relax before entering your room. This attention to detail and respect for the guest’s time and space reflect the finest traditions of Japanese hospitality, known as omotenashi.
Even small gestures say a lot, such as a personally written card on the table, restaurant suggestions tailored to your preferences, a small gift for a special occasion. The staff remembers your name and preferences, creating the feeling that you are not just a guest but a friend of the house.
For travelers looking for an authentic experience of Japan, not just superficial glamour, Park Hyatt Kyoto is the perfect choice. The hotel successfully balances between providing all the modern comforts you expect from a five-star hotel and preserving the spirit of tradition that defines Kyoto.
Value for money is a subjective category. But what is the price of an experience you remember for a lifetime? How much is waking up to a view of a five-century-old pagoda worth? Or breakfast prepared by a restaurant with a tradition of seven generations? For me, the answer is clear. There are hotels where you sleep and there are places that change you. Park Hyatt Kyoto belongs to the latter category.
The Park Hyatt Kyoto provided me with just that. And as I sat in the living room on the last morning, watching the sun light up the rooftops of Higashiyama, I knew I would be back. Some places just get under your skin and won’t let you go. This hotel is definitely one of them.
Kyoto is a city that requires time and patience. It cannot be experienced quickly, through the window of a bus or on a day trip from Tokyo. It deserves days of quiet exploration, evenings spent with traditional food and mornings filled with the meditative silence of ancient temples. And the Park Hyatt Kyoto is the perfect starting point for such a journey, a home away from home, but a home that teaches you something new every day.
Have you already had the opportunity to visit Kyoto, this ancient imperial capital of the Land of the Rising Sun where centuries-old tradition seamlessly intertwines with the subtle rhythm of modern life? Or maybe you are just planning to discover the magic of Kyoto and its historic districts, ancient temples, world-famous kaiseki cuisine and distinctive pagodas that leave no one indifferent?
Feel free to leave your impressions, comments or questions below the text or contact me via email and social networks. All information is available on the CONTACT page.
See you soon, with a new story from the heart of the Far East!
A warm blogger greeting from Kyoto,
Mr.M
This post is sponsored by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) and the Park Hyatt Kyoto Hotel, as well as other local partners who have selflessly supported this project. This post is my personal and honest review of the destination experience.
Hello Marko, this is an exceptional hotel review that truly captures the essence of what makes Park Hyatt Kyoto so special. Your description of the 300-year-old tea house Sojo-tei where feudal lords once held secret meetings gave me chills thinking about all the history contained within this property. I stayed at the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto on the Kamo River during my 2019 visit and while the location by the water was lovely, I now feel I missed out on being immersed in the historic Higashiyama district. The detail about the Pricker Garden with 300-million-year-old stones shipped from Aspen is absolutely fascinating… Read more »
Hallo Marko, vielen Dank für diese ausführliche Hotelbewertung. Die Information, dass das Hotel nur 70 Zimmer hat, obwohl normalerweise 150 bis 200 Zimmer für die Rentabilität erforderlich wären, zeigt wirklich das Engagement für Qualität über Quantität. Meine Frau und ich haben 2018 im Four Seasons Kyoto übernachtet, das neben einem achthundert Jahre alten Teichgarten liegt, aber Ihre Beschreibung des Park Hyatt mit dem Blick auf die Yasaka-Pagode klingt noch magischer. Besonders beeindruckt hat mich die Erwähnung des Restaurants Kyoyamato mit zwei Michelin-Sternen und sieben Generationen Familientradition seit 1877. Das ist wahre japanische Gastfreundschaft auf höchstem Niveau.
Marko, I have a question about the champagne hour you mentioned for suite guests. Is the Ruinart champagne unlimited during that 5pm to 6pm period, or is there a limit on glasses served? My wife and I are planning our anniversary trip to Japan next autumn and the Park Suite sounds perfect for celebrating such a special occasion. Also, do you know if the hotel can arrange any special anniversary amenities or surprises in the room? The fireplace setting in The Living Room sounds incredibly romantic and exactly the atmosphere we’re looking for after a long day exploring temples.
Cher Marko, quelle revue magnifique vous avez écrite sur le Park Hyatt Kyoto. Votre description de l’architecture qui respecte le concept japonais de teioku-ichinjo, l’unité entre le jardin et la maison, démontre une compréhension profonde de l’esthétique japonaise. J’ai visité Kyoto en 2017 et séjourné à l’Aman Kyoto qui se trouve dans une forêt à l’extérieur de la ville, une expérience très différente mais tout aussi belle. La localisation du Park Hyatt au cœur du quartier Higashiyama semble idéale pour ceux qui veulent explorer la ville à pied. Les photos du petit-déjeuner kaiseki dans les boîtes bento laquées rouges sont… Read more »
Ciao Marko, che recensione straordinaria hai scritto. Il dettaglio sul fatto che l’azienda Takenaka, con oltre 300 anni di tradizione, ha costruito questo hotel insieme al designer Tony Chi dimostra quanto serio sia stato l’impegno per creare qualcosa di speciale. Ho soggiornato al Hyatt Regency Kyoto nel 2019 che era molto confortevole ma decisamente più moderno e meno intimo di quello che descrivi. La possibilità di cenare al ristorante Kyoyamato con una tradizione di sette generazioni e due stelle Michelin è qualcosa che mi attira enormemente per il mio prossimo viaggio in Giappone. La tua descrizione della vista sulla Pagoda… Read more »
Dear Marko, your review has completely changed my mind about where to stay in Kyoto. I had originally booked the Four Seasons for our trip next spring, but your description of walking out of the hotel directly onto Ninenzaka Street and being steps away from Kiyomizu-dera Temple sounds like exactly the experience I want. The information about the hotel being built in compliance with the Kyoto Protected Beauty Zone regulations explains why it blends so seamlessly with the historic surroundings in your photographs. I particularly appreciated the practical tip about taking bus number 206 from Kyoto station, as navigating transportation… Read more »
Hola Marko, tengo una pregunta práctica sobre el hotel. Mencionas que el centro de fitness está abierto las 24 horas, lo cual es perfecto para quienes sufrimos de jet lag en los primeros días. ¿Podrías decirme si el área del onsen también tiene horarios extendidos o si es estrictamente de 7am a 10pm como mencionas? Además, ¿el hotel ofrece servicio de lavandería express? Viajo frecuentemente por negocios y a veces necesito ropa lista para reuniones importantes con poco tiempo de anticipación. Tu descripción del spa con productos Kotoshina de la región de Uji suena muy tentadora después de largos vuelos… Read more »
Marko, this is hands down the most thorough and beautifully written hotel review I’ve read in years. Your explanation of the Japanese architectural concepts of oku to tsugi, meaning inner depth and interval, helped me understand why Japanese spaces feel so different from Western hotels. I stayed at the Mandarin Oriental Tokyo in 2018 and while the service was impeccable, it lacked this deep connection to local culture that you describe at Park Hyatt Kyoto. The fact that the hotel integrates buildings from the Edo period into the modern complex is remarkable and shows a respect for heritage that’s increasingly… Read more »
Guten Tag Marko, eine Frage zu den kulturellen Erlebnissen, die das Hotel anbietet. Sie erwähnen eine private Tour zum Kiyomizu-dera Tempel mit dem Oberpriester und Zugang zu normalerweise geschlossenen Bereichen. Wie weit im Voraus muss man so etwas buchen und gibt es eine ungefähre Preisvorstellung für dieses exklusive Erlebnis? Meine Frau und ich sind sehr an der spirituellen Seite Japans interessiert und würden diese Gelegenheit nicht verpassen wollen. Die Zen-Meditation und Teezeremonie klingen ebenfalls faszinierend als Ergänzung zu einem solchen Besuch.
Bonjour Marko, merci pour cette revue si détaillée et passionnante. La mention que les céramiques utilisées au restaurant Kyoto Bistro sont créées par Asahiyaki, un maître potier dont la tradition remonte à plus de 400 ans dans la ville d’Uji, illustre parfaitement l’attention portée aux détails dans cet hôtel. J’ai séjourné au Ritz-Carlton Kyoto il y a trois ans et j’ai beaucoup apprécié sa localisation au bord de la rivière Kamo, mais le Park Hyatt semble offrir une immersion plus profonde dans le Kyoto historique. Vos photos du jardin Pricker avec ses pierres vieilles de 300 millions d’années sont vraiment… Read more »
Hello Marko, I have a practical question about room selection. You stayed in the Park Suite at 68 square meters, but I noticed you also mentioned the Pagoda House at 135 square meters with kitchen facilities. For a couple celebrating a special occasion and staying for five nights, would you recommend the Park Suite or would the upgrade to Pagoda House be worth the additional cost? We enjoy cooking occasionally and the idea of a private kitchen in Japan sounds appealing, but I’m wondering if we’d actually use it given all the incredible restaurant options you’ve described both inside and… Read more »
Caro Marko, la tua recensione è veramente eccezionale. Mi ha colpito particolarmente il fatto che la Pagoda Yasaka visibile dalle finestre dell’hotel sia considerata l’edificio più antico di Kyoto, costruito nel 589 dal Principe Shotoku secondo la leggenda. Questo tipo di dettaglio storico rende l’esperienza di soggiorno molto più significativa. Ho visitato Tokyo e Osaka nel 2018 ma purtroppo non ho avuto tempo per Kyoto, e dopo aver letto la tua recensione mi rendo conto di aver fatto un grave errore. Il Four Seasons Kyoto dove pensavo di soggiornare sembra eccellente, ma il Park Hyatt sembra offrire qualcosa di più… Read more »
Marko, your description of the Kyoyamato restaurant being run by the seventh generation of the Sakaguchi family since 1877 is extraordinary. The fact that Ms. Junko Sakaguchi received the 2025 Michelin Service Award speaks volumes about the level of hospitality one can expect. I’ve dined at many Michelin-starred restaurants during my travels, but a kaiseki meal in a private room overlooking a century-old garden sounds like an experience that transcends ordinary fine dining. Your photographs of the breakfast bento boxes are works of art in themselves, and I can only imagine how beautiful the presentation must be for dinner.
Querido Marko, muchas gracias por esta reseña tan completa del Park Hyatt Kyoto. Tu descripción de los productos de spa Kotoshina, cosméticos orgánicos de la región de Uji famosa por sus plantaciones de té, me intriga mucho. ¿Podrías decirnos si estos productos están disponibles para comprar en el hotel o si solo se usan durante los tratamientos? Además, el tratamiento de 150 minutos que mencionas combinando masaje corporal con tratamiento facial suena como la forma perfecta de recuperarse del largo viaje desde Europa. Nosotros nos alojamos en el Suiran Kyoto cerca de Arashiyama hace unos años y fue maravilloso, pero… Read more »
Marko, what struck me most about your review was the philosophy behind the hotel’s design choices. The fact that architects deliberately positioned the restaurant and bar to not disturb the view of Yasaka Pagoda shows a level of respect for cultural heritage that’s truly admirable. I spent a week in Kyoto back in 2017 staying at a traditional ryokan in Gion, which was wonderful but quite challenging for someone used to Western comforts. Park Hyatt Kyoto seems to offer the perfect balance between authentic Japanese experience and modern luxury amenities, which is exactly what many mature travellers like myself are… Read more »
Hallo Marko, Ihre Beschreibung der verschiedenen Jahreszeiten in Kyoto hat mich besonders angesprochen. Das Gion Matsuri Festival im Sommer klingt spektakulär, und die Tatsache, dass das Hotel perfekt positioniert ist, um diese Ereignisse zu verfolgen, ist ein großer Vorteil. Wir haben Japan bisher nur im Frühling zur Kirschblütenzeit besucht, aber Ihre Erwähnung der nächtlichen Illuminationen der Tempel während der Herbstlaubsaison macht mich neugierig auf einen Besuch im November. Wie früh im Voraus sollte man für die Herbstsaison buchen, da Sie erwähnen, dass das Hotel mit nur 70 Zimmern schnell ausgebucht ist?
Dear Marko, your review is incredibly comprehensive and has answered almost every question I had about Park Hyatt Kyoto. One thing I’m still curious about is the noise level in the hotel. You mention that the Higashiyama district is quite busy during the day with tourists on Ninenzaka Street, but does this noise penetrate into the rooms or common areas? My wife is a light sleeper and we’ve had experiences at other hotels where street noise was an issue. The early morning photography tip about capturing Sannenzaka Street before the crowds arrive is exactly the kind of insider knowledge I… Read more »
Cher Marko, j’ai une question concernant l’accessibilité du spa. Vous mentionnez que le centre de bien-être se trouve au troisième étage et comprend une piscine chaude et froide de style onsen. Est-ce que les installations sont adaptées aux personnes ayant des difficultés de mobilité? Mon mari a des problèmes de genoux et nous voulons nous assurer qu’il pourra profiter de toutes les installations. La description de l’atmosphère paisible et des traitements inspirés par l’atmosphère spirituelle de Kyoto nous attire beaucoup, mais nous devons planifier en conséquence.
Marko, I’ve stayed at Park Hyatt properties in Tokyo, Sydney, and Milan, and your review makes Kyoto sound like it might be the most special of them all. The integration of the 300-year-old Sojo-tei tea house into the modern complex is the kind of unique feature that sets truly exceptional hotels apart from merely luxurious ones. Your point about the hotel prioritizing quality of experience over profitability by limiting rooms to 70 instead of the typical 150-200 really resonates with me. In my experience, the best hotels are those that care more about creating memorable experiences than maximizing revenue.
Ciao Marko, ho una domanda pratica riguardo al trasporto. Menzioni che dall’aeroporto di Kansai a Osaka è meglio prendere il limousine bus fino alla stazione di Kyoto e poi l’autobus locale fino all’hotel, impiegando circa due ore. Il mio volo arriva abbastanza tardi la sera, verso le 21:00, e mi chiedo se questa opzione di trasporto sia ancora disponibile a quell’ora o se dovrei prenotare un trasferimento privato. Inoltre, il personale dell’hotel può organizzare un pickup dalla stazione di Kyoto se necessario? La tua recensione è così dettagliata che mi sento già preparata per il viaggio.
Hello Marko, your review convinced me to book Park Hyatt Kyoto for my upcoming trip, but I’m torn about which room category to choose. You describe the Garden Terrace rooms as having a private Japanese garden with seating area, which sounds wonderful. Is this garden truly private, or can other guests or passersby see into it? For someone who values privacy and quiet contemplation, this detail matters quite a bit. Also, do you know if all Garden Terrace rooms have the same quality of garden, or are some better positioned than others? Any insight would be greatly appreciated.
Lieber Marko, vielen Dank für diese wunderbare Hotelbewertung. Die Erwähnung, dass alle Gerichte im Kyoto Bistro auf handgefertigter Keramik serviert werden, die von Asahiyaki hergestellt wurde, einem lokalen Meistertöpfer mit über 400 Jahren Tradition aus der Stadt Uji, zeigt das Engagement für Authentizität. Wir haben das Aman Kyoto im Jahr 2019 besucht, das in einer wunderschönen Waldumgebung liegt, aber ziemlich abgelegen ist. Das Park Hyatt scheint den Vorteil zu haben, mitten im historischen Geschehen zu sein und dennoch eine ruhige Oase zu bieten. Ihre Fotos der traditionellen Eingangstore sind wirklich beeindruckend.
Bonjour Marko, votre description de l’expérience du petit-déjeuner japonais traditionnel préparé par Kyoyamato m’a mis l’eau à la bouche. Les boîtes bento remplies de plats de tofu, de légumes caractéristiques de Kyoto, d’omelette roulée et de soupe miso semblent être une façon parfaite de commencer la journée. J’ai séjourné au Four Seasons Kyoto il y a deux ans où le petit-déjeuner était excellent mais peut-être plus occidental dans son approche. La possibilité de choisir entre un petit-déjeuner occidental ou japonais est-elle offerte chaque jour, ou faut-il choisir à l’avance pour tout le séjour?
Marko, this hotel review is a masterpiece of travel writing. What impressed me most was learning about the Takenaka construction company with its 300-year tradition undertaking this project. The Japanese commitment to craftsmanship and heritage preservation is something we rarely see in Western hospitality development. I stayed at the Mandarin Oriental Tokyo several times for business, and while it’s excellent, it lacks this deep cultural integration you describe. The Kotoshina spa products from the Uji tea region sound like a uniquely Japanese touch that would make the wellness experience memorable and distinct from any other luxury hotel spa.
Querido Marko, tu reseña me ha convencido de que el Park Hyatt Kyoto debe ser mi próximo destino de viaje. La información sobre el concepto arquitectónico japonés de oku to tsugi, que significa profundidad interior e intervalo, explica perfectamente por qué los espacios japoneses tienen esa sensación de descubrimiento gradual. Nos hospedamos en el Ritz-Carlton Kyoto hace tres años y la ubicación junto al río Kamo era encantadora, pero tu descripción del Park Hyatt rodeado de edificios históricos del período Edo suena más auténtico. Las fotos de la suite con la madera aromática son preciosas.
Dear Marko, your attention to detail in this review is remarkable. Learning that the hotel provides complimentary amenities upon request including baby shampoo, deodorant, eye masks, and even instant noodles for midnight snacking shows a level of guest care that goes beyond the ordinary. I’ve travelled extensively throughout Asia and stayed at many luxury hotels, but these small thoughtful touches often make the biggest difference in how we remember a stay. The fact that they also provide weights, yoga mats, and fitness shoes for in-room exercise is perfect for maintaining wellness routines while travelling.
Cher Marko, une dernière question pratique. Vous mentionnez que les rues autour de l’hôtel offrent des souvenirs traditionnels comme les céramiques Kiyomizu-yaki, les éventails et les thés. Les prix sont-ils négociables dans ces boutiques ou est-ce considéré comme impoli de marchander au Japon? Je collectionne les céramiques japonaises et j’aimerais rapporter quelques pièces authentiques de mon voyage. Votre conseil sur la qualité de l’artisanat justifiant l’investissement est rassurant, car je préfère toujours la qualité à la quantité dans mes achats de souvenirs.
Marko, I must say your final reflection about there being hotels where you simply sleep versus places that change you really resonated with me. After reading your detailed description of Park Hyatt Kyoto, from the Edo-period tea house to the seven-generation Kyoyamato restaurant to the view of the ancient Yasaka Pagoda at sunset, I understand exactly what you mean. This isn’t just a place to rest your head after sightseeing, it’s an integral part of the Kyoto experience itself. Your writing has inspired me to finally book that Japan trip I’ve been postponing for years, and Park Hyatt Kyoto will… Read more »