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The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
Kyoto

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Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is one of Ampersand's Top 10 Lux City Hotels.

Located in the heart of Kyoto, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto offers a refined and intimate luxury experience that seamlessly blends the elegance of a traditional Japanese ryokan with modern comforts. This sophisticated hotel is a true tribute to Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage, with every detail designed to reflect the city's storied past. From oversized washi paper lanterns and intricate sword-like metal lattice works to beautifully arranged bonsai trees, Zen gardens, and sumptuous kimono fabrics, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto immerses guests in the grace and beauty of Japan’s ancient capital.

Exquisite Rooms & Suites at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto

The hotel features 134 elegantly designed rooms, ranging from serene lower-level suites overlooking lush ornamental gardens to higher-floor rooms offering sweeping views of the Kamogawa River, Kyoto’s stunning cityscape, and the majestic Higashiyama mountains. Each room serves as a sanctuary of comfort, offering thoughtful amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, a curated selection of English-language channels and newspapers. Custom touches, such as soft yukata robes, marble bathrooms adorned with cherry blossom motifs and handmade local soaps, ensure an exceptional and authentic Kyoto experience. The hotel also offers an indulgent spa, shimmering pool and impeccable concierge service, with staff proficient in English to cater to international guests.

Dining at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto: A Fusion of Tradition & Innovation

Dining at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is an extraordinary experience. The hotel boasts two renowned restaurants: Mizuki, offering refined Japanese cuisine with seasonal ingredients, and La Locanda, which serves exceptional Western dishes in a contemporary setting. For a sweet treat, the hotel’s Pierre Hermé Paris patisserie provides an array of delectable pastries and gourmet sweets.

For guests seeking an authentic Kyoto experience, the hotel also offers an authentic Japanese breakfast tailored to Western palates, blending tradition with innovation. The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto also presents hands-on culinary experiences, including sushi-making workshops with expert sushi chefs where guests can learn the art of crafting their own culinary masterpieces.

Cultural Experiences at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto

Beyond its culinary offerings, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto provides a wealth of unique activities for guests to enhance their stay. Participate in traditional craft workshops, create origami or paper umbrellas, design miniature Zen gardens, or immerse yourself in samurai experiences. For a peaceful start to your day, take part in morning chanting sessions with local monks or experience the art of classical harp lessons.

Unbeatable Location in Kyoto

Nestled along the serene banks of the Kamogawa River, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto offers the perfect base for exploring the city's abundant cultural and historic treasures. The hotel is just a short stroll from the Geisha district of Gion, where Kyoto’s traditional charm blends with modern-day allure. Guests can also wander the narrow, wood-panelled streets of Pontocho, one of Kyoto’s most iconic dining districts known for its vibrant culinary scene.

This prime location allows guests to easily immerse themselves in the heart of Kyoto’s culture, offering access to ancient temples, traditional tea houses, and unique shopping experiences in this beautifully preserved city.

Why Choose The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto?

  • Luxurious Japanese ryokan-inspired hotel in the heart of Kyoto
  • 134 elegant rooms with stunning views of the Kamogawa River and Higashiyama mountains
  • Renowned Mizuki restaurant serving seasonal Japanese cuisine and La Locanda for Western-inspired dishes
  • Exclusive hands-on culinary experiences including sushi-making workshops
  • Unique cultural activities, including origami, Zen garden creation, and samurai experiences
  • Prime location on the Kamogawa River, walking distance from Gion and Pontocho districts

Whether you're looking to indulge in Kyoto’s vibrant culinary offerings, explore its cultural heritage, or simply unwind in a luxurious setting, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto offers an unparalleled experience in one of Japan’s most captivating cities.

>> See more of our Ryokon Hotels here

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The first condition of understanding a foreign country is to smell it.
Rudyard Kipling

Client Testimonials

Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland
Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India
We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India

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