Dusit Thani Kyoto

Opening out to tranquil gardens, Dusit Thani Kyoto is akin to an urban refuge in central Kyoto, only a short walk from Kyoto Station and historic landmarks like the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. It embodies a space of serenity that weaves together Thai and Japanese cultures. You’ll notice motifs inspired by Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand, and ratchaphruek sculptures, Thailand’s national flower. Observe Japanese craftsmanship throughout the property, characterised by crisp, clean lines carved by Japanese artisans.

This dual personality flows into the rooms and suites, where neutral hues pair with lashings of light wood and details like shoji screens, tatami mats and torii-gate-inspired coat racks. With that, each space allows you to indulge in an atmosphere of timeless elegance combined with contemporary design. Rooms on the ground floor are particularly calming, overlooking zen gardens. The Imperial Suite impresses with its lavish fittings, such as its large soaking tub crafted from hinoki cypress.

You’ll find the hotel’s restaurants around its central garden courtyard, each specialising in a distinct culinary journey. Ayatana puts a contemporary spin on Thai cuisine, while Kōyō tells a story inspired by the ancient Japanese calendar made of 24 micro-seasons. You can savour traditional sake in Den Kyoto and participate in tea ceremonies in The Tea Salon.

To experience the local culture, you won’t need to venture far. Dusit Thani Kyoto curates taiko drum workshops and kimono and juzu bracelet-making. You can also learn traditional braiding in a kumihimo class and the art of mending broken ceramics with gold, known as kintsugi. Or, slow down the pace with a Thai or Japanese treatment at the onsite spa.