The Banyan Group announces the debut of its flagship Banyan Tree brand in Japan with the grand opening of Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama Ward. With 52 luxurious guest rooms, the renowned Banyan Tree Spa, the natural Onsen, and two distinctive dining experiences, the intimate retreat is the only hotel in Kyoto with a Noh stage
“We are thrilled to introduce Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto, a Sanctuary for the Senses inspired by the quiet beauty Kyoto is so well known for,” said Philip Lim, Senior Vice President, Head of Regional Operations, Banyan Group. “This opening represents a significant milestone for our flagship brand in Japan, blending Kyoto’s rich heritage with the unparalleled luxury and service synonymous with the Banyan Tree brand. With five sister properties of Dhawa, Garrya and Homm located in Kyoto alone, we invite our guests to immerse themselves in the city’s cultural treasures while enjoying the unique hospitality from our distinctive brands.”
A Harmony of Tradition and Modernity
Nestled on a hilltop just steps from the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto harmonises traditional Japanese architecture with modern elegance, enveloped by a bamboo forest and framed by the tranquil Higashiyama Mountains. Inspired by the ethereal beauty of Noh theatrical art and the concept of “yūgen” (mysterious, quiet beauty), the hotel offers an enchanting retreat, where each element is crafted to evoke a sense of grace and quiet wonder.
Designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, the architecture of Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings. Kengo Kuma’s design draws from traditional Japanese building techniques while incorporating contemporary elements, resulting in a structure that harmoniously blends with the Higashiyama landscape. The hotel’s façade, a harmonious blend of natural materials like Cypress wood and craftsmanship, evokes the timeless charm of the area’s cultural essence. With its sweeping windows and open spaces, the design invites the serene beauty of the surrounding mountains and lush gardens to flow gently inside, creating an immersive retreat where tranquillity and nature entwine seamlessly. Local artisans have restored the gardens and bamboo grove, enhancing biodiversity and reflecting traditional Kyoto craftsmanship.
The hotel’s guest rooms designed by Interior Designer Yukio Hashimoto, combine traditional Japanese techniques with modern, natural elements, and features large Hiba wood bathtubs, tatami mats, natural wood elements, and gold leaf accents to engage all five senses and provide a serene sanctuary. Room types include those with panoramic views of Kyoto city and Onsen Retreat rooms with private Onsen baths overlooking the small garden or a serene bamboo garden and the Noh Stage.
Culinary Artistry
Guests can embark on an exquisite culinary journey at Ryozen, an exclusive Kappo-style restaurant with a capacity of 48 patrons, including a private room for up to 10 guests. The chef’s kaiseki course menu is a highlight, with each dish a celebration of both artistry and sustainability, crafted from locally sourced seasonal ingredients that whisper tales of their origins. This is emphasised by the use of local ingredients including Kyo-Yasai (Kyoto vegetables), local Miso, and various local spices, such as Black-Shichimi (chilli pepper). The signature Dashi, a rich broth, is made from 5-year aged Rishiri kelp and enhanced with bonito and tuna flakes for a deeply satisfying umami flavour.
Bar Ryozen offers an intimate retreat with just 20 seats, featuring an exceptional selection of Japanese sake and inventive cocktails. The Sake Tasting Sets include over 30 local and premium sakes, including rare finds. Locally-infused cocktails such as the Ryozen Green Tea Gin and Tonic and Mirin Breeze provide a delightful prelude to dinner, while a selection of rare Japanese whiskies caters to connoisseurs.
Revitalise the Senses at Banyan Tree Spa
Banyan Tree Spa at Higashiyama Kyoto provides holistic rejuvenation, where traditional Japanese healing practices merge with Banyan Tree’s signature therapeutic techniques. Each spa treatment is meticulously curated to deliver profound relaxation and renewal, set within tranquil treatment rooms that feature Onsen baths and invigorating steam saunas.
For a more traditional experience, guests can relax and unwind gender-separated public Onsen baths, where the healing properties of the natural hot springs provide a timeless retreat for the body and soul.
Immersive Cultural Experiences
At Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto, guests can also explore and connect with a tapestry of Kyoto’s traditional arts through private cultural experiences. Guests are invited to embark on a journey through the heart of Japanese culture with a private visit to the studio of master artisan Ms. Mitsue Nakamura. Here, they will witness the meticulous craftsmanship involved in creating Noh masks, each one a testament to the centuries-old traditions of Noh theatre, an art form celebrated globally and honoured by UNESCO as a World Intangible Cultural Treasure. This exclusive experience offers not only a profound understanding of the soulful artistry behind Noh masks but also a rare opportunity to engage with a living tradition.
Other cultural explorations include a private kōdō ceremony at the tranquil Sennyū-ji Temple. In this serene setting, guests will discover the ancient Japanese art of incense, an experience designed to evoke a deep sense of peace and spiritual connection. Together, these experiences offer an unparalleled immersion into the essence of Japan’s artistic and cultural heritage.
The debut of Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto expands Banyan Group’s multi-brand presence in Japan to eight hotels across five brands – Banyan Tree, Garrya, Dhawa, Folio, and Homm, with four more hotels in the pipeline – Banyan Tree Ashinoko Hakone, Banyan Tree Hakuba, Cassia Hirafu Niseko, and Dhawa Ballpark Hokkaido.
