The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu
Kyoto

Tucked in the beating heart of Japan’s cultural capital, The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu effortlessly blends the rich culture of Kyoto with the polished elegance of contemporary design. Located just moments from the city’s celebrated temples and shrines, this chic urban retreat feels like an invitation to slow down and reconnect with Kyoto’s timeless beauty.

We loved our stay here. While the area surrounding the hotel can feel quite busy and congested during the day, it transforms in the evening. After the crowds disperse, the area becomes perfectly still and the view of the surrounding landscape is insanely picturesque. The Kiyomizu-dera Temple, just nearby, offers a stunning backdrop, and the area’s tranquility at night is the perfect counterpoint to the bustling energy of Kyoto’s daytime.

With rooms that exude sophistication and comfort, each space has been thoughtfully curated to offer the perfect balance between luxury and subtlety. The design focuses on simplicity, with muted tones, plush tatami-inspired carpets and furnishings crafted from natural wood and stone. Many rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the river or the city skyline.

For those who enjoy walking, this hotel is an excellent choice, particularly if you prefer to avoid the traffic and explore at a more relaxed pace. It’s just a 15-minute stroll to the enchanting Gion district, and about 30 minutes to Nishiki Market, making it an ideal base for exploring Kyoto on foot. The hotel is perched on a hill, offering elevated views over the whole city and the distant mountains, particularly beautiful from the hotel’s rooftop terrace, which adds a truly special touch to the experience.

The Seiryu’s restaurant serves an exquisite menu that draws inspiration from the seasonal flavours of the region, while the bar invites guests to unwind with expertly crafted cocktails, featuring local spirits and ingredients, all in a setting that feels both intimate and effortlessly stylish.

One of the hotel’s standout offerings is its ability to arrange private, early-morning tours of the nearby Kiyomizu-dera Temple before the crowds arrive. The temple opens at 6am and closes around sunset (anytime between 6-9pm depending on the season). We’d highly recommend visiting the Kiyomizu-dera Temple as early as possible - before the crowds descend is when it feels most magical and peaceful.

What sets The Seiryu apart, though, is its unparalleled ability to blend the contemporary with the cultural. This is a place that invites you to relax and recharge, but also encourages discovery, with curated cultural experiences available for guests. From private tea ceremonies to guided explorations of nearby temples, every moment feels like an opportunity to immerse yourself deeper into the city’s rich history. With impeccable service, quiet elegance and an unparalleled location, The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu is a true embodiment of the Kyoto experience - timeless and refined.

To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.
Bill Bryson