SET within the epicentre of Kyoto’s historical district lies an oasis of tranquillity, natural beauty and sophistication that is the Park Hyatt Kyoto. Considered one of Higashiyama’s hidden gems, the hotel serves as a beautiful mélange of tradition and modernity.
Park Hyatt Kyoto exterior
Calling upon the Japanese design philosophy of teioku-ichinyo – meaning garden-house oneness – the scenic getaway has been constructed to mirror the hotel’s abundant, biodiverse surroundings.
In ancient times, houses in Japan were built with soil floors and thatch roofs in order to intertwine one’s daily life with Mother Nature. Merging building and garden, the Park Hyatt Kyoto has alluded to this timeless philosophy to ensure guests have a calm, restful stay.
King Bed View Deluxe room
Upon arrival, I noticed the design choices immediately. With each guest room window carefully framing the ancient Yasaka Pagoda as a centre-piece, guests are guaranteed to feel immersed in the cultural capital.
The hotel feels incredibly private and quiet. Guests are guided down winding paths to their rooms, which are located 500 feet away from the main reception area. Takenaka architects worked alongside famed landscape architect Yasuo Kitayama in order to make the place a true structural chef d’œuvre.
Higashiyama House suite
While residing at the hotel, I opted to visit its new signature restaurant, aptly titled Yasaka. Utilising French techniques to create new variations of teppanyaki, Chef Koyama Kentaro takes local ingredients to innovate traditional Japanese dishes with his Western experience – I was particularly fond of the Omi beef fillet finished with egg yolk sabayon.
Tea Lounge
Kyoto is a beautiful city steeped in history and tradition, offering an array of cultural experiences for visitors to enjoy. If you’re planning a trip there, the Park Hyatt Kyoto is an ideal place to unwind and relax after a busy day of sightseeing.
by Sophie Richardson
For more information visit Park Hyatt Kyoto