Six Senses Kyoto: a hidden gem in the heart of Japan’s ancient capital city

Six Senses Kyoto marks the brand’s exciting entry into Japan, promising an unparalleled experience replete with its trademark cutting-edge wellness and feel-good spa facilities…

Six Senses Kyoto: a hidden gem in the heart of Japan’s ancient capital city

Opening its doors in the historic Higashiyama district in April, Six Senses Kyoto enjoys a prime location for guests to combine an urban sanctuary with the many delights on the doorstep including festivals and cultural events. Myoho-in Temple, Kyoto National Museum and Sanjusangen-do Buddhist Temple are all an easy walk from the hotel.

Visionary thinking BLINK Design Group, known for its expertise in global luxury hotels, is responsible for bringing the Six Senses brand values to life in this location, through elegant designs while maximising space, privacy and views. Interiors effortlessly merge authentic Japanese traditions with clean lines, an earthy colour palette and meticulous attention to detail.

natural wood surfaces and colours in hotel suite in Kyoto Six Senses

Image credit: Six Senses Hotels Resorts & Spas

“We are thrilled to announce our debut Six Senses opening in Japan,” commented Nicolas Black, General Manager, Six Senses Kyoto. ” There couldn’t be a more fitting location than Kyoto in the cultural heart of Japan, where age-old sustainability traditions thrive and well-being is deeply ingrained in the way of life.”

The 81 thoughtfully designed guestrooms and suites, ranging from 42 to 238 square metres, are ingeniously arranged to offer views of the peaceful central courtyard, the gardens of the neighbouring Toyokuni Shrine, or the seductive city panorama of treetops, temples, tea shops, and rooftops.

Authentic Japanese traditions and décor run throughout, with quirky touches inspired by folklore, The Moon Rabbit, and the 11th-century classic Tale of Genji. The pinnacle of the accommodation is the Three-Bedroom Penthouse Suite. Secluded on the top floor of the hotel it is an oasis of calm, ideal for multi-generation travellers, or guests looking to host private events and get-togethers on the adjacent rooftop terrace.

bedroom in penthouse suite in six Senses Kyoto design by BLINK

Image credit: Six Senses Hotels Resorts & Spas

Six Senses Spa incorporates smart science, traditional healing and Japanese Zen culture into a unique wellness experience, offering an array of rejuvenating treatments and programs deeply rooted in Kyoto’s culture and community. Traditional male and female bath houses cocoon guests in warm ripples and steam and the watery delights of traditional Japanese bathing extend to an indoor pool and Watsu. Yoga, meditation, aerial yoga, a state-of-the-art gym and Biohack Recovery Lounge, are all available to help support guests’ wellness goals.

Carefully designed menus bring the brand’s Eat With Six Senses ethos to Kyoto, mixing the best of what is grown to perfection locally and seasonally while keeping the well-being of guests and community front of mind. What results is a flavour sensation made from good food, good vibes, and good science.

Multi-sensory culinary experiences await at the relaxed all-day dining restaurant and counter-style sushi restaurant. Guests may eat indoors or out under clear skies while a meandering garden pathway leads to the cocktail lounge and bar offering a combination of European and Japanese cocktails.

Discovery is at the heart of Six Senses Kyoto where guests can embark on enriching and immersive journeys with access to a multitude of hands-on experiences, including the captivating Earth Lab, an Alchemy Bar and a locally grown herb garden.

Main image credit: Six Senses Hotels Resorts & Spas