You know you’ve found a very special hotel when, despite the fact you’re in one of the most visually stunning cities in the world, you hate to leave your accomodation each day.
The Hotel Higashiyama is a spectacular new hotel in Kyoto, Japan. Stepping into the hotel for the first time, we were instantly in awe of the architecture and style. The interior design is inspired by the flow and fluctuation of the nearby Shirakawa River, and combines Japanese and Western aesthetics to create a serene and calming space. It absolutely took our breath away.
But we are getting ahead of ourselves. Getting to the hotel itself was an easy process once we arrived in Kyoto. The Hotel Higashiyama has its own dedicated shuttle bus which collects you from Kyoto Station and takes you to the hotel. This excellent service runs on a loop and also takes you back after check-out if you wish. This was a lovely and well-appreciated touch when travelling.
Check-in was a breeze and we instantly fell in love with the hotel staff, who were so genuinely kind and welcoming. It’s clear the staff are committed to making your stay an absolute dream. They were attentive, friendly and super helpful in every interaction we had with them. As a gay couple, it was wonderful to see how LGBT friendly the hotel was. We felt at ease and totally welcomed at all times. The front desk operates 24-hours and the hotel offers concierge service and even currency exchange.
We were given our keys and after being wowed by the foyer were so excited to lay eyes on our room. And we were not disappointed. Put simply this is one of the most stylish and romantic hotel rooms we have seen anywhere in the world.
Like New York City, Japan is known for its tiny and simple hotel rooms – but here the rooms are spacious and well appointed. All the inclusions you hope for are present – free WiFi, huge flat screen TV, air-conditioning, lovely tea and coffee supplies – but most noticeable is the look and feel of the space. The beautiful curve of the walls and the relaxing tone of the room. The colour choices and tranquil design of the space. We can see why the hotel is such a popular choice for couples, honeymooners and lovers of all ages.
Our bathroom was huge, with the seperate vanity and wet areas. An assortment of quality toiletries are included free of charge. And yes, the world famous Japanese Toto toilet is here too.
The hotel and its grounds are immaculate. The sprawling grounds were formerly a school, and some small places – like the gardens, library and the museum showcase the history of what used to be here. The facilities within the hotel are second-to-none. The Hotel Higashiyama has a fully-equipped fitness centre, and unlike most hotels the self-operated laundry service is free of charge. This was a welcome addition for us, as we had a bag of clothes needing to be washed. And isn’t always a pain when you’re traveling, to try and find the appropriate coins for the washer, dryer and detergent? Not here – all are complimentary.
We had heard other travellers in the hotel speaking highly of the private spa rooms that you can book via the front desk. And they were not wrong. We enjoyed an hour long booking in the “Sen” spa, one of 3 private rooms. We collected an assortment of complimentary products from the front desk – robes, toe socks and traditional slippers, face and body products – and made our way to the spa.
The room had a speaker that you could stream your own music choice to, plus a comfortable seating area inside our own private room. The wet area had two seperate shower spaces so we could both shower at the same time, using the luxurious products before making our way over to the hot spa.
The whole experience was incredibly relaxing and romantic. We sat in the spa and felt the very last remaining jet lag fade away, as the sounds of the gorgeous water spout refilling the on-sen gently echoed.
Dining in the hotel is another experience unto itself. The Nananoichi restaurant is visually stunning, with gorgeous artwork and architecture. The wall of vintage vinyl records was a gorgeous touch, as the turntable spun the classic soul of Aretha Franklin and many other favourites.
Each day we enjoyed a long breakfast. You have the choice of a Japanese or American set menu, both of which were delicious. On another occasion we enjoyed dinner at the restaurant, with an exquisite Kyoto – French fusion menu that left us speechless.
Kyoto itself is a truly magical city, and the hotel’s location is the perfect base to explore all the city has to offer. Popular points of interest nearby include Shoren-in Temple, Samurai Kembu Kyoto and Heian Shrine. You’re also a short walk from the Gion district, where if you are lucky you can spot geishas. The hotel is also a 15 minute walk to the main shopping area. So you are away from the hustle and bustle, but close enough to enjoy a day of shopping if you please. We had a wonderful time wandering through the shopping district, picking up some cool vintage clothes.
The Hotel Higashiyama delivered on every level and we absolutely hated having to leave. We cannot wait to return, and in the meantime have recommended it to many friends who wish to visit Kyoto.
For more info or to book your stay, log onto www.tokyuhotelsjapan.com
