Stay Here: Ace Hotel Kyoto, JapanBy Iona Goulder
Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and timeless beauty, the Ace Hotel Kyoto stands as a beacon of modernity and style. With its cutting-edge architecture, prime location, well-appointed bedrooms, and friendly staff, the Ace Hotel group have well and truly arrived in Japan.
Ace Hotel Kyoto: The Lowdown
Let’s start with the building: the Ace Hotel looks almost like it has landed from space in this low-key Kyoto neighbourhood. It’s a real testament to architectural ingenuity; seamlessly blending the old and the new, paying homage to Kyoto’s traditional machiya townhouses while incorporating innovative design elements.
It’s all the work of LA-based Commune Design who teamed up with Japanese architect Kengo Kuma (the architect who also did the main stadium for the Tokyo Olympics). The result is the perfect East meets West blend; a mix of natural materials, such as wood and stone, with modern glass loads of light and – as you might expect in Japan – brilliant landscaping. From the moment you step inside, you’re captivated by every corner, the best way of describing it would be effortlessly cool.
Situated in the vibrant Shimogyo Ward, the Ace Hotel Kyoto is perfectly positioned for exploring the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Within walking distance, you’ll find the historic Nishiki Market, where you can taste just about everything that Japan has to offer. Gion, the traditional geisha district, is also nearby and offers a glimpse into Japan’s ancient traditions. Most of all though, we loved exploring the bustling streets of the neighborhood the hotel is in. There were so many interesting shops, wine bars, cafes and design stores that you could truly spend a day just in a one-mile radius of the hotel. That said, whether you’re seeking serene temples, exquisite gardens, or traditional tea houses, this neighbourhood serves as a gateway to all of Kyoto’s cultural tapestry.
Ace Hotel Kyoto: The Rooms
The bedrooms at the Ace Hotel Kyoto exude effortless style and comfort. Each room is meticulously designed, featuring minimalist decor, and contemporary finishes. The fusion of Japanese aesthetics and urban chic means there’s a real sense of relaxation whilst feeling a little more fun and a bit less formal than a lot of hotel bedrooms we stayed in in Japan. There are of course state-of-the-art facilities, including high-speed Wi-Fi and a large TV. We also loved our balcony which, due to the clever architecture and design, made it feel like we were staying in a Japanese forest somewhere rather than in the heart of the city.
The Ace Hotel Kyoto prides itself on its friendly and attentive staff. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted with genuine warmth and hospitality. The knowledgeable concierge team were always on hand to provide personalized recommendations; whether directing you to the best local eateries or suggesting off-the-beaten-path attractions. We really felt this multilingual team went above and beyond to cater for our every need, helping us to book some great food spots too for our stay (shout out to Tempura Tenboshi). Their commitment to service reflected the renowned Japanese hospitality but felt super personal at the same time.
The Ace Hotel Kyoto sets itself apart as the epitome of effortless cool in the heart of this historic city. Its commitment to design, creativity, and cultural authenticity makes for a unique and immersive experience. The hotel’s vibrant atmosphere, curated art installations, and lively events create plenty of energy whilst the array of shops and delicious Stumptown Coffee will keep you going before you’ve even left the lobby. With stylish bedrooms, modern facilities, and a team of friendly staff, the Ace Hotel Kyoto stands as a testament to contemporary design and Japanese tradition – and it was undoubtedly one of the best hotels of our whole stay.
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