Welcome to Vogue’s first-ever spa guide—a compendium of the 100 best spas worldwide, pulling from the expertise of our global editors. There is a lot out there in the world of wellness, and we are here to sort the cryo from the cold plunge, the infrared light treatment from the IV infusion. Or if your path is a more holistic one—there’s something for you here as well.
Why go here?
Set off one of the few relatively quiet streets in Higashiyama ward, Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto is a breath of fresh air from the otherwise touristic district. This sense of respite is only further enforced once you step into the airy lobby and catch a glimpse of the property’s crown jewel, an 800-year-old pond garden complete with its own teahouse, pagoda, and resident heron. But what you can’t see is the subterranean sanctuary split between two floors that spans a whopping 100,000 square feet. It’s one of the largest full-service spas and fitness centers in the city.
Photo: Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
What’s the vibe?
Unexpected sultry. And no, that wasn’t a typo. The narrow hallway leading to the spa reception is lined with double-shaded lanterns made of bamboo wicker and amber crystal glass that cast a patterned glow against the wall. Changing rooms are equipped with a steam room, sauna, and bathhouse-style facilities, although some of the amenities are awkwardly split between the two basement floors. Luckily, you’re welcome to walk around in signature Four Seasons plush robes. And once you do make your way down to the lower level, a cavernous space with craggy stone walls houses a 65-foot pool, lined with cabanas, submerged chaises, and a pair of whirlpools with a sizable fitness center toward the back.
Photo: Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
The history?
While the company dates back to 1961, the first full-service spa didn’t launch until some 25 years later at its former Dallas hotel, according to Rainer Stampfer, president of Four Seasons global operations. Since then, Four Seasons spas “have grown to reflect a holistic approach to wellness while also being unique to the destinations in which [they] operate,” says Stampfer, as seen in Kyoto with treatments that incorporate traditional Japanese methods like shiatsu and baths filled with locally brewed sake.
Photo: Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
What should you try?
Bathing culture plays a significant role in Japanese wellness, and the Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto spa has guests covered with its deep stone tubs. Spa manager Ni Nyoman Suriadi recommends spending time in the ofuro (Japanese bath) before settling into a suite for the Bamboo Ritual, a unique massage that utilizes warm bamboo sticks and oil to relieve tension, particularly on the back and legs. But if you’re someone who enjoys a good facial, the spa also offers treatments with either Biologique Recherche or Tatcha products—the former so famous it hardly needs an introduction, the latter a Japanese brand with an equally cultish following—that promises snatched, glowing skin.
Photo: Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
How environmentally friendly is it?
Sustainability efforts are admittedly scant, but there are some efforts in sourcing local products and ingredients for treatments.
What else do we need to know?
In a city teeming with cultural attractions, you might be hard-pressed to carve out some time for the pool. But pools are a rarity in this city, let alone one long enough for laps. I highly recommend stopping by for a swim at least once during your stay, especially if jet lag rears its ugly head. Additionally, the hotel also offers complimentary yoga or guided walks around Higashiyama on Sunday mornings—just ask the staff to reserve a spot.
Who can go?
The spa is open to anyone with a reservation. For visitors not staying at the hotel or one of its residences, a wellness day pass is available for purchase, if you also want to spend time at the pool or fitness center.
Booking details for Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
Address: 445-3 Myohoin Maekawacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0932, Japan
Read more from Vogue’s Global Spa Guide.
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