Banyan Group has announced the debut of its flagship Banyan Tree brand in Japan with the grand opening of Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto in Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama Ward. Beyond its 52 guestrooms, Banyan Tree Spa, natural onsen and two distinctive dining experiences, the hotel is also the only one in Kyoto with a Noh stage.
Set on a hilltop just steps from the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto is inspired by Japan's Noh theatrical art and the concept of yūgen (mysterious, quiet beauty). Led by architect Kengo Kuma, the design draws from traditional Japanese building techniques while incorporating contemporary elements. The hotel has open spaces and large windows overlooking the surrounding mountains and gardens. (Local artisans have restored the gardens and bamboo grove, enhancing biodiversity and reflecting traditional Kyoto craftsmanship.)
The hotel's guestrooms, designed by interior Designer Yukio Hashimoto, also combine traditional Japanese techniques with modern, natural elements. These include large Hiba wood bathtubs, tatami mats, natural wood elements and gold leaf accents. Rooms offer panoramic views of Kyoto city, while Onsen Retreat rooms come with their own private onsen baths overlooking the small garden or the bamboo garden and the Noh Stage.
Culinary choices at the hotel include Ryozen, an exclusive Kappo-style restaurant with a capacity of 48 patrons, including a private room for up to 10 guests. The chef’s kaiseki course menu is a highlight, with each dish crafted from locally sourced seasonal ingredients. This is emphasized by the use of local ingredients including kyo-yasai (Kyoto vegetables), local Miso, and various local spices, such as black-shichimi (chilli pepper). The signature dashi, a rich broth, is made from five-year aged Rishiri kelp and enhanced with bonito and tuna flakes.
Bar Ryozen offers an intimate retreat with just 20 seats, serving a selection of Japanese sake and inventive cocktails. The Sake Tasting Sets include over 30 local and premium sakes. There are also a selection of locally infused cocktails such as the Ryozen Green Tea Gin and Tonic and Mirin Breeze, as well as a selection of rare Japanese whiskies.
The hotel also houses the Banyan Tree Spa, where traditional Japanese healing practices merge with Banyan Tree’s signature therapeutic techniques. Each spa treatment is curated to deliver relaxation and renewal, set within tranquil treatment rooms that feature Onsen baths and steam saunas. For a more traditional experience, guests can relax at the gender-separated public Onsen baths to experience the healing properties of the natural hot springs.
At Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto, guests can also explore and connect with Kyoto’s traditional arts through private cultural experiences. Guests can opt for a private visit to the studio of master artisan Ms. Mitsue Nakamura. Here, they will witness the craftsmanship involved in creating Noh masks, each one a testament to the centuries-old traditions of Noh theater, an art form celebrated globally and honored by UNESCO as a World Intangible Cultural Treasure. This exclusive experience offers not only an understanding of the artistry behind Noh masks but also a rare opportunity to engage with a living tradition. Other cultural explorations include a private kōdō ceremony at the Sennyū-ji Temple. In this setting, guests will discover the ancient Japanese art of incense.
The debut of Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto expands Banyan Group's multi-brand presence in Japan to eight hotels across five brands—Banyan Tree, Garrya, Dhawa, Folio, and Homm, with four more hotels in the pipeline—Banyan Tree Ashinoko Hakone, Banyan Tree Hakuba, Cassia Hirafu Niseko, and Dhawa Ballpark Hokkaido.
For more information, visit www.banyantree.com/japan/kyoto.
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