Rediscovering Kyoto in the Age of Overtourism — Kyoto Luxury Hotel Stays
Kyoto is often portrayed as a symbol of overtourism—crowded streets, fully booked hotels and restaurants, and overstretched transportation. Yet the culture, heritage, and sense of place that endure here remain experiences found nowhere else.
In this three-part column series, we explore refined ways to enjoy Kyoto today, with a focus on luxury hotels. Through gardens, cultural encounters, and spa experiences, we reveal how travel can be enriched in the age of overtourism. Vol. 1 focuses on hotel gardens.
Beyond Exploration: Staying with the Seasons in Hotel Gardens
Traveling through Kyoto’s most popular sights often means navigating crowds. Yet when one’s place of stay itself embodies the spirit of the city, it becomes possible to enjoy moments of calm and fulfillment without venturing far. Today, a style of travel centered on the hotel stay itself is drawing increasing attention.
Nestled at the foothills of Higashiyama, Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto stands as a prime example. At its heart lies Shakusui-en, an approximately 800-year-old strolling garden, encircled by guest rooms and lounges. With the ridgelines of Higashiyama as its backdrop, the garden offers a sense of depth and openness, revealing cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn foliage, and snow in winter. Guests may also prepare matcha in the garden-facing teahouse, where silence and tradition gently converge.
The Westin Miyako Kyoto harmonizes beautifully with the greenery of Higashiyama and Mount Kacho. At SPA Kacho, natural hot spring waters feed open-air baths and spa experiences that borrow views of the surrounding forest, creating a feeling of immersion in nature and quiet restoration.
Near Nijo Castle, HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO presents a refined unity of garden and architecture. Built on the former Mitsui family estate, guest rooms and restaurants are arranged around a central courtyard, allowing visitors to savor Kyoto’s seasons entirely within the hotel.
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In the next installment, we will explore cultural experiences available within hotels, highlighting programs rooted in local tradition.