The Westin Miyako Kyoto ウェスティン都ホテル京都 京都威斯汀都酒店

The Westin Miyako Kyoto is a long-established luxury hotel positioned on the hillsides of Kyoto’s Higashiyama district. Founded in 1890, the property underwent a major renovation in 2020 that renewed its guest rooms, spa, and dining venues. Access is convenient: about 25 minutes from Kyoto Station via complimentary shuttle bus, or roughly a two-minute walk from Keage Station on the Tozai Line. Nanzen-ji Temple and the Philosopher’s Path are also within walking distance.

The hotel features 266 guest rooms, significantly enlarged during the renovation by combining some former rooms—raising the average size from about 35 m² to around 50 m². Many categories are suite-focused, and the interiors adopt an “elegant modern” theme inspired by architect Togo Murano’s signature curved designs. The décor blends natural wood textures with a calming palette drawn from the Higashiyama landscape. Suites offer separate living and sleeping areas and spacious bathrooms with walk-in showers, making them suitable for long stays or special occasions.

A distinguishing feature of the hotel is “Kasui-en,” a separate sukiya-style villa building. Originally completed in 1959 and fully renewed in 2020, it sits along the slope of Mount Kacho and still showcases elements of Togo Murano’s architectural style in its corridors and lobby. Guest rooms in Kasui-en measure roughly 63–100 m² and combine traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern furnishings. Many offer expansive views of Higashiyama’s greenery or the Kyoto cityscape, making this one of the quietest and most serene areas of the property.

All rooms in Kasui-en are supplied with natural hot spring water from the on-site “Kyoto Keage Onsen.” Bathtubs made of hinoki, high-quality wood, or granite create a soothing environment filled with natural fragrance. The spring is classified as a simple hot spring (low-tonicity, mildly alkaline, low-temperature) and is said to help with muscle stiffness, joint fatigue, poor circulation, stress-related symptoms, and overall recovery. The ability to enjoy an onsen-like experience entirely within the room suits guests who prioritize privacy and relaxation.

The hotel’s spa, “Kacho,” is one of Kyoto’s largest natural hot spring spa facilities. Its main bath incorporates arch motifs inspired by the iconic aqueduct of Nanzen-ji’s Suirokaku, and also uses the Kyoto Keage Onsen spring. The spa includes indoor and open-air baths, saunas, treatment rooms, and a fitness gym—fully embodying the hotel’s identity as a “Higashiyama spa retreat.”

Five restaurants and bars give the property a complete in-house dining lineup. “RAKUKU,” the all-day buffet restaurant, features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Higashiyama and the Kyoto skyline. Live-kitchen stations offer dishes prepared with seafood from nearby ports and Kyoto-grown vegetables, along with fresh tempura, artisanal bread, and pâtissier-crafted desserts. The lobby-level tea lounge, “Mayfair,” provides a relaxed café setting with sweets and light meals.

On the upper floors, guests will find “Le Restaurant,” a French dining venue supervised by chef Dominique Bouchet, and “Le Teppanyaki,” which pairs teppanyaki with French technique. Both focus on multi-course menus suitable for special gatherings or celebratory dinners. Come evening, the bar “Rokuza” offers champagne and cocktails in a quiet, atmospheric setting.

Selected suite guests and eligible members have access to the “Westin Club,” a lounge with views over Higashiyama and central Kyoto. Services include breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening cocktails, providing a quieter alternative to the public lobby—and adding value for guests who prioritize the hotel stay itself.

The renovation also expanded the hotel’s banquet and event spaces, now totaling 20 venues capable of hosting international conferences, weddings, and corporate events. A chapel and rooftop garden are also part of the facilities. The property received the Kyoto Design Award Grand Prize in 2020, underscoring the quality of its updated architecture and interiors. The hotel successfully combines the charm of a historic institution with the functionality of a contemporary MICE-capable hotel.

The surrounding area is rich with cultural landmarks, including Nanzen-ji Temple, Heian Shrine, the Philosopher’s Path, and the museums and concert halls of the Okazaki arts district. Nanzen-ji is about a 10-minute walk, and the Philosopher’s Path is also easily reached on foot. In addition to the free shuttle bus, travel to and from Kyoto Station is simple via subway or bus, making the property a practical base for sightseeing.

Overall, The Westin Miyako Kyoto is a full-service hotel where guests can experience the natural scenery of Higashiyama, the convenience of city access, authentic hot springs, and sukiya-style architecture all in one place. Though the property is large, quiet areas such as Kasui-en and Spa Kacho provide the option to retreat and unwind. With robust facilities and the reassurance of long-standing heritage, it appeals to a wide range of travelers—from sightseeing-focused visitors to those who prefer a stay centered around the hotel experience itself.