Imperial Hotel
New Material Research Laboratory
Yasaka Nyokoba Gakuen
New Material Research Laboratory
Header image: Artist’s impression of the completed entrance to the Imperial Hotel, Kyoto (photo courtesy New Material Research Laboratory). Above, from top: Artist’s impression of the completed exterior. The Imperial suite overlooking the city. The theatre and community centre. A suite in the Extension area. A suite in the Preservation area. A Renovation area suite.
We’re very excited to report that Imperial Hotel, Japan’s premier luxury hotel brand, is slated to open a new 55-room boutique property in Kyoto next year. The hotel breathes new life into the Yasaka Kaikan, a 90-year-old cherished landmark that has long served as a cultural gathering place in Kyoto’s historic Gion district, once a venue for theatrical performances. Through a meticulous conservation strategy, it is being reborn as a beacon of sustainable luxury and cultural continuity.
The property boasts a unique historical link with the Imperial Hotel, Tokyo, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. As the fourth property in the esteemed Imperial Hotel portfolio, following Tokyo, Osaka, and Kamikochi, it will be the first new Imperial Hotel to début in three decades. The boutique hotel promises atmospheric restaurants, bar, and wellness facilities, including a spa, pool and fitness centre.
The property will present guests with three architecturally distinct accommodation styles: Extension, Preservation, and Renovation, spatial concepts which reflect the historical evolution of the Yasaka Kaikan. Of the three distinctive room styles, the real standout looks to be the Preservation area, whose guestrooms are situated along Hanamikoji Street and face the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo theatre. These place guests at the physical and cultural centre of Gion. The rooms retain original beams, pillars, and window frames of the Yasaka Kaikan—features gently restored to show their age and patina. Honestly, we can’t wait to place our reservations and sleep in these rooms.
In April 2025, the Imperial Hotel, Kyoto became a member of the Leading Hotels of the World. For information, visit www.imperialhotel.co.jp/en/kyoto.
Stanley Moss is travel editor of Lucire.
Yasaka Nyokoba Gakuen
Obayashi Corp.
Imperial Hotel
Obayashi Corp.
Imperial Hotel
Obayashi Corp.
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