In the ever-evolving landscape of Kyoto’s luxury hospitality scene, the upcoming Imperial Hotel, Kyoto brings with it a deeper, more meaningful story. Scheduled to open in Spring 2026, this 55-room boutique hotel is being crafted with uncommon care—restoring one of Gion’s most cherished cultural landmarks: the Yasaka Kaikan, a 1936 theater designed by Tokusaburo Kimura.
This project marks the Imperial Hotel brand’s first new opening in three decades, an expansion that reflects not only a legacy of excellence but also a commitment to architectural and cultural integrity. Long revered as Japan’s leading hotel group since its founding in 1890, Imperial Hotel is choosing to expand its footprint through thoughtful revitalization rather than new construction.
The Yasaka Kaikan, located near the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo theater, has been a historic gathering place for decades. When seismic risks began to threaten the structure, Imperial Hotel saw an opportunity—not for reinvention, but for renewal. The original building’s character is being preserved down to its 16,387 exterior tiles, carefully maintained using traditional techniques such as ikedori, a process that protects original materials for reinstallation.
Leading the transformation is Obayashi Corporation, the same company that built the original structure nearly 90 years ago. Their continued involvement highlights the continuity and craftsmanship that defines the project. Architectural details also reveal an intriguing connection to the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Imperial Hotel, Tokyo, with terracotta from Tokoname featured in both buildings—linking two eras of Japanese design through shared materials and artisanship.
Imperial Hotel, Kyoto
At the helm is Reiko Sakata, appointed General Manager in April 2025 after 22 years with the brand. Her leadership reflects a strong understanding of Imperial Hotel’s heritage and Kyoto’s cultural rhythm. “My mission is to ensure a stay that is not only exceptional in quality but also leaves a lasting warmth in the hearts of our guests,” she shared.
The new hotel will feature elegantly designed guest rooms and suites, restaurants, a signature bar, and wellness spaces including a spa, fitness center, and indoor pool. The design adheres strictly to Kyoto’s height and aesthetic regulations while collaborating with local artisans and craftspeople to ensure that both the look and feel are rooted in the surrounding community.
Imperial Hotel, Kyoto has already been recognized by The Leading Hotels of the World, signaling its place among the world’s most refined boutique stays. Its development also aims to address broader concerns—supporting sustainable tourism, avoiding overdevelopment, and embracing responsible engagement with the city’s historic districts.
Unlike newer properties that offer contemporary convenience without cultural grounding, the Imperial Hotel, Kyoto is defined by its connection to place. It honors the traditions of Kyoto while reintroducing a building that has long been part of its cultural identity. This isn’t merely about restoration—it’s about resonance.
Set for completion in late 2025, the Imperial Hotel, Kyoto represents a rare balance: a new expression of Japanese hospitality built within the walls of an enduring legacy. For those seeking an experience that reflects the soul of Kyoto as much as its scenery, this new opening will be one to watch.
BECOME A PURSUITIST VIP!
Sign up for our Free Insider Enewsletter. Get exclusive access. No ads, ever!
Rated ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from Forbes, The New York Times & The Wall Street Journal.
Christopher Parr
Christopher Parr, is the Editor and Chief Content Creator for Pursuitist, and a contributing writer to USA Today, Business Insider — and the on-air host of Travel Tuesday on Live at 4 CBS. He is an award-winning luxury marketing veteran, writer, a frequent speaker at luxury and interactive marketing conferences and a pioneer in web publishing. Named a “Top 10 Luxury Travel Blogger” by USA Today, Parr has also been selected as the official winner in Luxury Lifestyle Awards’ list of the “Top 50 Best Luxury Influencers and Bloggers in the World.”
AloJapan.com