Kyoto
Nestled on the banks of the Kamogawa River, where the Higashiyama Mountains provide an oh-so-scenic backdrop, the Ritz-Carlton looks nothing like a chain hotel. With a design inspired by Japan's authentic ryokan inns, you will be welcomed by the babble of a gentle stream and service with a smile that reaches the eyes. There's no corporate check-in here and instead, you're given everything you need over a cup of green tea. The hotel is wonderfully central and electric bicycles are at your disposal should you fancy visiting one of Kyoto's original Geisha districts or the famous Nishiki Market, dubbed 'Kyoto's Kitchen'.
The interiors are quaint and warm with light wooden screens, smatterings of the traditional shippo pattern and huge lampshades constructed by the Imperial family's very own umbrella maker. There are a number of different dining options including Italian feasts at La Locanda, as well as the Michelin-starred Tempura Mizuki, which serves kaiseki-style meals. The Lobby Lounge offers a fabulous afternoon tea and at the spa, you’ll find locally-inspired treatments and a secluded indoor lap pool, complete with cascading waterfall.
Floor-to-ceiling windows let in plenty of light as well as views of either the garden or cityscape beyond - and you’ll have a thriving bonsai tree to admire too. The rooms are stylish and modern with a generous sitting area, calligraphic artwork and plenty of light oak accents. The ancient traditions of Kyoto are also present and you’ll spot pretty Shigaraki pottery basins, cushions made by local weavers, and beautiful cherry blossom motifs in the bathroom. Some rooms are fitted with Western-style beds while others have futons; make sure to request your preference.
Set in the heart of Kyoto, the Ritz-Carlton is just a few minutes away from the beautiful Nanzenji Temple Complex, the Imperial Palace and the idyllic Geisha districts. The hotel hosts and organises several activities including sake and sushi workshops, morning cycling tours and an authentic tea ceremony. We would also recommend paying a visit to one of Kyoto's 1,000 temples including Kennin-ji, the oldest Zen temple in the city - and a stroll through its pristine gardens afterwards. A little further out, the lush Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is a beautiful spot for a walk.
The hotel doesn't have a whiff of corporate about it, but rather there is an air of home and warmth.
Just next door is K6, one of Kyoto's most fabulous bars, which is definitely worth a visit.
The views differ greatly from room to room and the river-facing options are (in our opinion!) much preferred.
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Get a glimpse of age-old traditions in Japan's erstwhile capital, a city of 1,000 temples.
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