Coming from Tokyo to Kyoto, it’s easy to feel like you’ve stepped into a time capsule. The city exudes a timeless beauty, reminiscent of an Akira Kurosawa film. Where Tokyo dazzles the senses with its neon lights and relentless energy, Kyoto is a serene, living museum. But don’t be fooled—Kyoto is very much a modern city with a heartbeat, filled with residents going about their daily lives. It’s easy to forget that people actually live here. And as a tourist, you’re very much in their way.
Kyoto is currently experiencing a wave of negative sentiment toward tourism. It has always been a magnet for both international and domestic visitors, but the pandemic offered a stark contrast. When the city shut down and the tourists vanished, Kyoto realized how crucial those tourist dollars were. But just because the city needs tourists doesn’t mean it has to like them. Tourists in Kyoto often get a bad rap because a few bad apples can spoil the bunch.
Understanding Japanese etiquette is crucial before visiting, not just to ensure you have a good time, but to show respect to the locals. Etiquette in Japan is a big deal, with many rules that range from the obvious to the obscure. For instance, my wife was once puzzled by the frosty reception from our host during a traditional Japanese breakfast after she poured soy sauce over her rice—an unexpected cultural faux pas. There are plenty of resources to learn these customs, but this isn’t that sort of blog.
Now, let’s talk about geishas. Kyoto may sometimes feel like a Disney park, but it’s not. Geishas aren’t costumed characters like Donald Duck and Mickey Mouse. You can’t and shouldn’t stop them for a photo. They’re not unicorns to be chased down. They’re real people, trying to get to their next appointment, often feeling overwhelmed by the crowds. If you’re lucky enough to spot one, play it cool. Act like it’s no big deal. And if you see someone trying to snap a photo, do the city a favor and remind them it’s in bad taste.
Booking the Park Hyatt Kyoto
If you can easily afford a stay at the Park Hyatt Kyoto, please send me the contact details for your financial advisor because room rates here are not for the faint of heart. Luxury comes at a price, and starting at around $1300 for a regular room, the Park Hyatt Kyoto is one of the priciest properties in Japan.
How does the average person like you or me get to stay at the Park Hyatt Kyoto without resorting to selling a kidney? By using points, of course! Like any Hyatt property, you can book your room with points. For many Park Hyatts, including this one, you need to keep an eye on availability. I always suggest checking the app daily if you have a specific timeframe in mind. For instance, on my most recent visit, I had initially booked the Hyatt Regency Kyoto. Two days before we left for Japan, the Park Hyatt had availability with points. Talk about a last-minute upgrade!
On average, it takes 40,000 points per night to stay at the Park Hyatt Kyoto. During peak seasons, this can rise to 45,000 points. Many websites will tell you what Hyatt points are worth, but 2.3 cents per point is a good benchmark. Using that math, 40,000 points equate to $920, compared to paying $1300 in cash. Points offer a much better deal, making the Park Hyatt Kyoto one of the best point redemptions in my opinion.
But let’s be honest, accumulating 40,000 points is no small feat. There are various strategies to get there, but it still requires effort. When we travel, we tend to wake up early and spend the day exploring, often returning to the hotel by 6 PM. By that time, we’re usually exhausted, so if we haven’t had dinner before coming back, we typically dine at the hotel. That’s our travel style. For us, a hotel needs to be more than just a bed to crash in. We’re beyond the days of sharing a room with friends and sleeping in the bathtub. While we may not always stay at a Park Hyatt, you won’t catch us at a Motel 6 either.
So, maybe 40,000 points are out of reach, but that’s okay because Hyatt has fantastic options in Kyoto. Staying in the same Higashiyama region is the Hyatt Regency, my go to when the Park Hyatt is out of budget. A night there will generally set you back 17,000 points or $188. Even more affordable, but located in central Kyoto, is the Hyatt Place Kyoto. Their rooms will cost you either 6,500 points or $127. While we haven’t stayed here yet, that point redemption price is tempting.
Whether you’re looking for a lavish experience or just a comfortable place to stay while you explore Kyoto, Hyatt has you covered.
Luxury Serenity
There are hotels that leave you breathless, where the location, ambiance, meals, or even the impeccable service make you think, “It can’t get any better than this.” And then, you stay at the Park Hyatt Kyoto, and you realize, it just did.
Opened in October 2019 and nestled in Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district, this hotel, like its neighborhood, is a masterpiece. Imagine a sanctuary that marries the elegance of a traditional ryokan with the sophistication of modern luxury. The Park Hyatt Kyoto isn’t just a place to stay; it’s an experience that redefines your understanding of hospitality.
Park Hyatts are renowned for their luxurious experiences, but nothing can prepare you for the meticulous care and unparalleled elegance that define the Park Hyatt Kyoto. Every detail, from the architecture to the service, is crafted to perfection. The hotel’s design is a symphony of traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary luxury, creating an environment that feels both timeless and fresh.
Prime Location and Seamless Accessibility
Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, the Park Hyatt Kyoto offers a sublime blend of modern luxury and historic charm. Perched on the hillside of Higashiyama, the hotel provides breathtaking views of the ancient cityscape, including the iconic Yasaka Pagoda. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, and every glance out the window feels like a step back into Japan’s rich history.
Getting here is a breeze. The hotel is conveniently located a short taxi ride from Kyoto Station, making it easily accessible for travelers arriving by the renowned Shinkansen bullet train. If you’re flying in, Kansai International Airport is just a couple of hours away by train, and the journey itself is a scenic introduction to the beauty of Japan.
Once you’ve settled in, the wonders of Kyoto are right at your doorstep. The bustling streets of Gion, famed for its geishas and teahouses, are just a stroll away. Temples and shrines, like the magnificent Kiyomizu-dera, are within easy reach, offering a spiritual escape amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.
Whether you’re wandering through the historic alleys of Higashiyama or hopping on a bicycle to explore the city, the Park Hyatt Kyoto serves as the perfect base. Its prime location ensures that the best of Kyoto is always within arm’s reach, inviting you to uncover the hidden stories and timeless traditions that make this city so enchanting.
Welcoming Elegance: Your Arrival and Check-In Experience
After a two-hour journey aboard the Shinkansen (or bullet train) from Tokyo, we arrived at Kyoto Station. Given the hotel’s location, we opted for a taxi. Despite my decent Japanese speaking skills, I had printed out the hotel’s address from its Japanese site to ensure clear communication with the driver. While navigating Japan without speaking the language is quite feasible, taxis can be an exception where language barriers might complicate things. When the driver glanced at the address, he looked impressed, clearly he knew something we didn’t but were about to discover.
The taxi ride cost only $20 and took a mere 10 minutes. However, maneuvering through the hordes of tourists surrounding the area took an additional five minutes. From the moment I stepped out of the taxi, the meticulous attention to detail was evident. We were guided to the hotel lobby, where shoji-like doors slid open gracefully before us. The lobby, an oasis of calm, was spacious and quiet, with only a couple of other guests seated by an area that resembled a sophisticated wine bar.
There were no lines at check-in, likely because the hotel only has 70 rooms. As we checked in, our Globalist Hyatt status earned us an upgrade to a King Bed Garden Terrace room. Additionally, as part of our Globalist perks, breakfast was complimentary. We were informed that we could enjoy a regular breakfast at the restaurant or, for a more authentic experience, make reservations for a traditional Japanese breakfast. Naturally, we opted for the latter and secured our reservation for the next morning.
As we waited for a final inspection of our room, we were invited to sit in one of the cozy seating areas. Our luggage was taken to the room, and we were promptly served champagne and wine, accompanied by the most delicious mixed nut trays I’ve ever tasted.
Barely five minutes had passed when our host approached to inform us that our room was ready. She assured us there was no rush; we could savor our drinks at our leisure. Our bags had already been placed in our room. She asked us to let her know when we were ready, and she would personally escort us.
The tranquility of the lobby was striking. Despite being just 20 feet from one of the busiest and noisiest parts of Kyoto, there was an air of Zen that enveloped the space, or perhaps it was the wine soothing my sleep deprived body. When we were finally ready, our host guided us to our room through a labyrinth of automatic sliding doors, evoking the feeling of being aboard a spaceship in a sci fi movie.
Exquisite Comfort
Upon entering our second floor room at the Park Hyatt Kyoto, we were greeted by a serene ambiance that masterfully marries modern luxury with traditional Japanese aesthetics. The room featured a sumptuous king bed adorned with crisp white linens that practically whispered, “Get ready for the best sleep of your life.”
The first thing that jumped out at us was the stunning greenery. The room’s design invites nature inside with a floor-to-ceiling glass wall that opens up to a private zen garden. This tranquil outdoor space, enclosed by bamboo fencing, offers a peaceful retreat where you can unwind and pretend you’re a meditating monk, if only for a moment.
A cozy seating area beckons with plush cushions, ideal for curling up with a good book or savoring a cup of tea. Sitting on the table was a welcome basket of some of the most delectable, tastiest fruits I had ever encountered. These fruits were so good, they should have their own fan club. Naturally, I had to investigate the room’s minibar, which was brimming with fantastic Japanese beers and spirits. It was a treasure trove of liquid delights!
Subtle, warm lighting fixtures enhance the room’s calming atmosphere, while the thoughtful placement of decor elements like a small bonsai tree and an elegant black vase with fresh flowers on the glass table adds to the room’s minimalist charm. Modern amenities such as a stylish bedside lamp, a state of the art alarm clock, and a sleek, understated work desk ensure that comfort and convenience are always at your fingertips.
Stepping into the shower area of the Park Hyatt Kyoto’s room feels like entering a sanctuary of elegance and tranquility. The space is beautifully designed with a seamless blend of modern sophistication and traditional Japanese elements.
The shower area features a luxurious bathtub set against a backdrop of intricately veined marble, creating a stunning visual contrast that exudes opulence. The glass partition allows natural light to filter through, enhancing the serene ambiance while maintaining privacy. Above the bathtub, a sleek rainfall shower head promises a rejuvenating experience, inviting you to unwind and wash away the day’s adventures and perhaps even your worries.
Adjacent to the shower, a wooden cabinet offers neatly folded, plush bathrobes, ready to envelop you in comfort post shower. The thoughtful design continues with ample storage space and warm, ambient lighting, which casts a soft glow over the room, highlighting the exquisite details and craftsmanship.
Every detail in the room speaks to the high standard of excellence that the Park Hyatt Kyoto is renowned for, providing an exceptional blend of comfort, style, and tranquility. Whether you’re in Kyoto for business or leisure, this room offers the perfect sanctuary to retreat to after a day of exploring the historic city. And trust me, you’ll never want to leave this peaceful paradise!
Culinary Excellence
While we didn’t get a chance to try the Park Hyatt Kyoto’s two main restaurants, Yasaka and Kyoyamato, they sound like culinary dreams come true. Yasaka offers a theatrical teppanyaki experience with delicate French techniques, featuring meticulously selected local Kyoto ingredients, all set against the backdrop of the Yasaka Pagoda and Kyoto’s historic cityscape. It’s described as a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Kyoyamato, on the other hand, is a traditional ryotei and culinary institution that dates back to 1877, during Japan’s Meiji Era. This family-run gem, spanning six generations, is housed in several historic buildings, including the storied teahouse “Soyotei,” where feudal warlords once held secret meetings. The restaurant serves seasonally-inspired kaiseki cuisine, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic taste of Kyoto’s history and culinary heritage.
While we missed out on these gastronomic adventures, we did spend plenty of time at Kohaku.
Kohaku has been hailed as one of the best bars in Kyoto. While I can’t claim to have sampled every bar in the city, I can attest that Kohaku serves some damn fine drinks. I often tell people considering a trip to Japan that it doesn’t have to be expensive, unless you want it to be. I can easily spend less in a day in Japan than I do back home in Los Angeles. But Kohaku? This place might have you thinking about taking out a second mortgage. The prices can be steep, but oh, are they worth it.
Sure, for less than $10, you can enjoy a beer and take in the breathtaking sights of Kyoto, including a picture perfect view of the Yasaka Pagoda. But let’s be real, you didn’t come to the Park Hyatt Kyoto to sip on a drink you can find at your local convenience store. You came for their incredible mixed drinks and rare vintages of Japanese whiskey. Your credit card bill might give you a heart attack, but you won’t regret a single minute spent here.
For breakfast, we indulged at the Kyoto Bistro, which offers a little bit of everything. It’s where we savored our traditional Japanese breakfast and ordered a lot of our room service from. The bistro is situated at street level, providing a perfect vantage point to watch people bustling by as they go about their day. For non guests, there’s a special counter selling pastries and cakes that are simply divine. Every bite was a delicious testament to Kyoto’s culinary excellence.
Unparalleled Luxury: Amenities and Services at Park Hyatt Kyoto
The Park Hyatt Kyoto offers all the amenities you’d expect from a world-class hotel, and then some. From a luxurious spa where you can pamper yourself into oblivion to a gorgeous fitness center that almost makes you want to work out, the hotel covers all the bases. There’s also a bathhouse where you can soak away your worries, and a private library, reminiscent of its sister hotel, the Park Hyatt Tokyo, providing a cozy nook for book lovers to lose themselves in literature.
The staff at the Park Hyatt Kyoto are nothing short of exceptional. While I never expect hotel staff to speak English when visiting a foreign country, I was pleasantly surprised by how well they spoke it here. Their proficiency and friendliness made every interaction a breeze. Each day, as we planned our excursions, the staff went above and beyond, often suggesting hidden gems and new sights that hadn’t crossed our radar. Their local knowledge and eagerness to help turned our stay into a series of delightful discoveries.
Kyoto Insider: Essential Tips for Exploring Japan’s Cultural Gem
Kyoto is one of my favorite cities in the world. There’s an endless array of sights to see, things to do, and foods to savor. All those top sites that Lonely Planet and every other travel guide suggest? Yeah, you should absolutely hit them up. Go to Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. Marvel at the Golden Pavilion, especially on a sunny, cloudless day (don’t forget your sunglasses). Stroll through the serene Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama. And if you’re talking about walking, you’ve got to do the Philosopher’s Path. But you don’t need me to tell you any of that.
Now, where to eat? Just wander. You won’t be disappointed. Kyoto’s culinary scene is an adventure in itself.
Here’s my city tip. You’re going to want souvenirs—whether for yourself, your friends, family, pets, or coworkers. In my opinion, there are only two places you need to hit up for souvenirs.
First up is Don Quijote, a chain store that has everything under the sun. These stores are massive labyrinths where getting lost is part of the fun. You’ll find everything you need there.
But the real gem, and an absolute must-stop for me every time I’m in Japan, is the Suntory Yamazaki Distillery. Just a 30-minute train ride from Kyoto Station, this place is more magical than Disneyland—if you like your magic in a glass. Suntory produces some of the most exquisite and expensive whiskies in the world. It wasn’t always this way. They always made great whisky; it’s just that Americans had no clue. Then they did, and prices skyrocketed.
Remember that scene in Lost in Translation with Bill Murray shooting that whiskey commercial? “For Relaxing Times, Make it Suntory Times”. Less than ten years ago, you could snag a bottle of Suntory Hibiki 17 Years for about $100. Today, if you can even find one, you’re looking at $800 to $1,200. While you probably won’t find that bottle at the distillery, what you will find is an incredible tour detailing the history of the Yamazaki brand.
The gift shop is a wonderland of Suntory whiskies you won’t find in the U.S., making it easy to justify buying an extra suitcase (fortunately, there are two Don Quijote stores across from Kyoto Station where you can get a cheap carry-on). But the pièce de résistance is the tasting room. You’re limited to three tastings, so you won’t get too tipsy, but the selections are rare and exclusive. And the best part? The price. A shot of Yamazaki 18 Years, my personal favorite, can set you back $100 to $150 in any bar both in the US and Japan, but here it’s less than $5.
Effortless Transfers: Taking a Taxi from Kyoto Station
The Park Hyatt Kyoto is just two miles from Kyoto Station. But don’t be fooled—it’s a long two miles. There isn’t an easy way to get to the hotel from the station, so my recommendation is to take a taxi. It might be a bit pricey, but it’ll save you from an uphill battle if you opt for the train. Plus, given the hotel’s exclusivity and its prime location in a busy tourist area, you might even be mistaken for a celebrity. Tourists will likely whip out their cameras and start snapping photos as you step out of the car. So, don’t forget to flash a smile and enjoy your moment of fame.
Early Bird Advantage: Exploring Kyoto’s Charms from Park Hyatt Before the Crowds
Besides the hotel itself, what I love most about the Park Hyatt Kyoto is its prime location. Nestled in the heart of Ninenzaka, it’s an Instagram influencer’s dream. During the afternoons and early evenings, this place can be a nightmare to navigate, swarming with tourists. But here’s the beauty of staying at the Park Hyatt—you don’t need to be here during those peak hours. You can be off savoring a glass or three of whisky at the Suntory distillery or exploring other hidden gems. Instead, take advantage of your privileged position and explore Ninenzaka in the early morning or late at night, when the crowds have dispersed. Imagine wandering these ancient streets in the tranquil silence, with the cobblestones whispering stories of centuries past. Remember, though, people live here, so be respectful of the residents who call this picturesque place home. This is your chance to see Kyoto as it once was, in its most serene and magical state.
Final Thoughts: Unveiling the Ultimate Kyoto Experience at Park Hyatt
My stay at the Park Hyatt Kyoto was nothing short of magical. We arrived with no expectations and left feeling utterly spoiled, knowing that any future hotel would struggle to compare. The impeccable service, the stunning aesthetics, and the prime location all contributed to an unforgettable experience in Kyoto.
Kyoto is a city where the past seamlessly meets the present. It’s a place where you can wander through ancient temples and gardens that have stood for centuries, and just a few steps away, find yourself in the midst of modern, bustling life. Every corner of Kyoto holds a piece of its rich history and vibrant culture, making it a city that constantly reveals new layers, no matter how many times you visit. It’s a place that stays with you long after you’ve left, calling you back to uncover more of its timeless charm. The Park Hyatt Kyoto isn’t just a hotel; it’s a gateway to experiencing the magic of Kyoto in a way that stays with you long after the journey ends.
The Hyatt Enthusiast 