Imperial Hotel, Japan’s premier luxury hospitality brand, will unveil its newest property, the Imperial Hotel, Kyoto, in Spring 2026. This elegant 55-room, seven-story boutique hotel blends Kyoto’s cultural heritage with modern sustainable design, centered around the historic restoration of the Yasaka Kaikan—a nationally registered tangible cultural property.
The Imperial Hotel, Kyoto. Credit: New Material Research LaboratoryA Historic Jewel in the Gion District
Originally constructed in 1936 by architect Tokusaburo Kimura, the Yasaka Kaikan served as a cultural hub in Kyoto’s Gion district. For decades, it hosted theatrical performances and events. However, structural concerns raised by seismic vulnerabilities put its future at risk. Now, the site is being transformed through a conservation-focused strategy, bringing new life to one of Kyoto’s architectural treasures.
The Imperial Hotel, Kyoto. Credit: New Material Research LaboratoryHeritage Meets Hospitality
According to Reiko Sakata, General Manager of the Imperial Hotel, Kyoto, the new property will reflect over 1,000 years of Kyoto’s cultural legacy and 135 years of hospitality excellence cultivated by the Imperial Hotel brand. Appointed in April 2025, Sakata brings more than 22 years of experience with the group and aims to create “a stay that is not only exceptional in quality but also leaves a lasting warmth in the hearts of our guests.”
The Imperial Hotel, Kyoto. Credit: New Material Research LaboratoryCraftsmanship and Cultural Preservation
The revitalisation is led by Obayashi Corporation, the same company that originally built the Yasaka Kaikan. The architectural restoration focuses on preserving traditional materials and techniques. Notably, 16,387 original exterior tiles are being reused, employing ikedori—a Japanese technique where elements are carefully extracted for reuse without damage. The hotel also supports the local community through environmental clean-up efforts and artisanal collaboration, reinforcing its deep local ties.
The Imperial Hotel, Kyoto. Credit: New Material Research LaboratoryA Sustainable Approach to Luxury Travel
More than a renovation, the Imperial Hotel, Kyoto is a model of sustainable tourism. The project respects Kyoto’s strict height and design guidelines while reducing strain on the city’s infrastructure. The hotel works closely with local artisans and offers guests immersive cultural experiences designed to benefit both residents and visitors. This strategy aligns with Kyoto’s long-term goals to preserve authenticity and reduce over-tourism.
The Imperial Hotel, Kyoto Theatre. Credit: New Material Research LaboratoryArchitectural Legacy and Cultural Continuity
The Yasaka Kaikan shares historical DNA with the Imperial Hotel, Tokyo, famously designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Both buildings feature terracotta from Tokoname, and artisans involved in Wright’s Tokyo project also contributed to the Yasaka Kaikan. This lineage highlights a unique architectural connection and reflects the enduring artistry behind Japan’s most iconic structures.
The Imperial Hotel, Kyoto. Credit: New Material Research LaboratoryRedefining Kyoto’s Boutique Hospitality
When complete, the Imperial Hotel, Kyoto will offer 55 luxurious guestrooms and suites, bespoke dining venues, a signature bar, and a range of wellness amenities including a spa, indoor pool, and fitness center. It will be the fourth location in the Imperial Hotel portfolio—joining Tokyo, Osaka, and Kamikochi—and the first new opening in over 30 years, marking a bold new chapter for Japan’s most prestigious hotel brand.
Opening Timeline
Construction is set for completion in October 2025, with the grand opening scheduled for Spring 2026. This historic launch represents a powerful intersection of cultural preservation, modern luxury, and visionary hospitality.
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