HOSHINOYA Kyoto

Tucked away in the northwest corner of Kyoto, this is a true hidden gem. With only a few rooms, the atmosphere is wonderful, and the hot springs are absolutely superb. It's perfect for family trips, and I'll definitely choose to stay here again on my next visit to Kyoto.

The service was mediocre, and the set dinner at the hotel was quite poor. The room itself was a bit dated and didn't live up to the 'luxury' claim. There weren't many facilities either, and since it was winter, there wasn't much beautiful scenery to enjoy.

Having visited Kyoto many times, I finally had the pleasure of staying at the Hoshinoya, a hotel I'd long dreamed of. I was consistently impressed by the attention to detail and sense of ritual throughout my stay; it was perfect with absolutely no complaints. The experience began with a ceremonial boat ride from the pier near Togetsukyo Bridge. As we glided along the stream, surrounded by bamboo groves and picturesque mountains, I immediately felt a sense of calm, leaving the bustling world behind. Tucked away deep within Arashiyama, the hotel offers a serene and private environment. The gardens seamlessly blend with the natural landscape, with every step revealing a new view imbued with Japanese Zen aesthetics. Our room was elegantly spacious and refined. The Kyoto karakami wallpaper, wooden furnishings, and private balcony exuded quality. Though minimally decorated, every detail spoke of luxury. The view from the room was superb; opening the window revealed a stunning panorama of the valley and forest, turning the changing seasons into a living artwork. The cypress wood bath was wonderfully warm and comfortable; soaking while listening to the flowing water and birdsong was incredibly therapeutic. The service was top-tier Japanese hospitality. Our butler was gentle, thoughtful, and incredibly responsive, anticipating our needs without ever being intrusive. The dining experience was equally impressive. The seasonal kaiseki cuisine featured fresh ingredients, exquisite presentation, and balanced both flavor and artistry. Breakfast could even be served in the room, allowing us to dine while enjoying the views – pure bliss. The hot springs, tea ceremony, and garden strolls – every experience showcased the pinnacle of Kyoto's aesthetic beauty. This isn't just a hotel; it feels more like a secluded sanctuary where one can slow down and find inner peace. For those seeking quality and an immersive cultural experience in Kyoto, Hoshinoya is absolutely worth it. It's a top-tier luxury Japanese resort experience that everyone should try at least once. I'm already looking forward to my next visit.

Take a boat ride into wonderland

An impressive hotel, I would like to come back again during the cherry blossom season in the spring, or the maple leaf season in the fall. The interior of the room is very spacious and very clean. You can see a small train passing by on the cliff opposite the window.