Six Senses Kyoto
Kyoto

Stepping into the serene, sophisticated world of Six Senses Kyoto feels like an invitation to experience the soul of Japan, where history, artistry and nature come together in perfect harmony. Tucked away in the heart of one of the world’s most culturally rich cities, this new jewel in Kyoto’s luxury hotel scene strikes a delicate balance between honouring the city's ancient heritage and offering a contemporary sanctuary for the modern traveller.

The hotel, a masterful blend of traditional Japanese architecture and sleek, cutting-edge design, rises from the banks of the Kamogawa River, just a stone’s throw from the temples, gardens and tea houses that make Kyoto such an enchanting destination. Whether you’re strolling through the Gion district, admiring the ethereal beauty of Kiyomizu-dera or indulging in the quiet elegance of Kyoto’s zen gardens, Six Senses Kyoto offers a refined base to explore this extraordinary city.

Inside, Six Senses Kyoto is a visual masterpiece. Architects have drawn from Kyoto’s rich design heritage, incorporating warm wood, soft tatami mats and handcrafted Japanese paper screens, as well as bold, modern touches to create an atmosphere that feels both timeless and contemporary. Every inch is a work of art, with interiors that reflect the calming aesthetics of Kyoto’s traditional machiya houses, while also celebrating the forward-thinking spirit of Six Senses.

The hotel’s spacious rooms and suites, many of which offer sweeping views of the beautifully curated Japanese inner courtyard, are calm and luxurious retreats. The design seamlessly merges traditional Japanese minimalism with luxurious touches such as deep-soak bathtubs, plush beds and floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing natural light to flood the spaces.

Dining at Six Senses Kyoto is an experience that elevates the city’s already renowned culinary scene. The hotel’s micro-seasonal restaurant celebrates the essence of Kyoto’s food culture with a modern twist, bringing together the best of local ingredients, from the delicate flavours of seasonal organic vegetables to the expertly prepared wagyu. Drawing inspiration from the city’s centuries-old tea culture, the hotel also offers a thoughtfully curated café space where you can sip artisanal blends in a setting that feels miles away from the bustle of the outside world.

Kyoto’s natural beauty is breathtaking, and Six Senses Kyoto takes full advantage of its location to offer an immersive wellness experience that connects the city’s heritage with holistic practices. The hotel’s spa, offering a blend of Japanese and Western treatments, is designed to rejuvenate both body and spirit. But it’s the unique treatments based on Kyoto’s ancient rituals that truly set this spa apart; think onsen-inspired therapies, shiatsu massages and traditional Japanese healing rituals. For those seeking further tranquility, the hotel’s meditation and yoga offerings draw on Kyoto’s long history as a centre for zen and mindfulness.

What truly sets this hotel apart, though, is its commitment to helping guests connect with the city in a personal and meaningful way. Whether it’s a private Zen meditation session with a head priest, a guided pilgrimage to some of the city’s most sacred sites or an immersive forest bathing experience in the surrounding hills, the hotel offers a curated selection of cultural experiences that go far beyond the typical tourist offerings. Every guest is invited to step into Kyoto’s rich past while enjoying the hotel’s modern luxury.

As with all Six Senses properties, sustainability lies at the heart of the experience. Every aspect of the hotel, from its sustainable design to the eco-conscious practices in its kitchens and spa, reflects a commitment to protecting the environment. It’s a rare balance, where luxury and sustainability can coexist effortlessly, allowing guests to indulge in the finest things without compromise.

Six Senses Kyoto is a truly transformative place to stay; where luxury, culture and nature converge, offering a tranquil sanctuary that allows you to slow down and immerse yourself in the soul of Kyoto.

My favourite thing is to go where I've never been.
Diane Arbus