Imperial Hotel to Open Its First New Property in 30 Years
The Imperial Hotel, Kyoto is scheduled to open in Spring 2026 in the Gion district of Kyoto. It will be the fourth Imperial Hotel property following Tokyo, Kamikochi, and Osaka, marking the first new opening in 30 years since the Imperial Hotel Osaka opened in 1996.
This project inherits the architectural spirit of the historic Yasaka Kaikan, blending traditional elegance with modern luxury. The southwest façade, terracotta reliefs, copper-tiled roof, and other historic architectural elements will be carefully preserved and reused, creating a harmonious fusion of heritage and innovation.
Guests will enjoy panoramic views of Gion Kabu Renjo Hall’s grand roof, Hanamikoji Street, and the Higashiyama mountains while experiencing Kyoto’s unique blend of tradition and contemporary hospitality.
Highlights
Three Distinct Architectural Zones
- Preservation Zone (Main Building Southwest) – Retains the charm of the original Yasaka Kaikan with restored columns, beams, and window frames, preserving the cultural memory of Gion.
- Reconstruction Zone (Main Building Northeast) – A refined modern reinterpretation of the original silhouette, capturing Kyoto’s morning light and atmosphere.
- North Wing Addition – Designed to harmonize with traditional townhouses, featuring tatami and Japanese architectural aesthetics expressed through contemporary design.
The Grand Imperial Suite
The signature Imperial Suite will feature a total area of 193 m², comprising 128 m² of indoor living space and a 65 m² terrace. The open terrace faces north and east, offering spectacular views of Gion’s machiya townscape, Higashiyama mountains, and the Gion Kabu Renjo Hall’s roofline.
The suite’s unique design incorporates the historic bell tower (Shoto) of the original Yasaka Kaikan. Morning light filtering through this architectural remnant and its integration into a serene tea ceremony space promise a deeply atmospheric stay.
Rates for the Imperial Suite are expected to reach around 3 million yen per night (tax and service included), positioning it among the most exclusive accommodations in Japan—offering a “stage-like” stay that merges history, culture, scenery, and experience.
“We want guests to feel the timeless atmosphere of the moon over Higashiyama, just as people did in the Heian period.”
— Tomoyuki Sakakita, New Material Research Laboratory
Surroundings
Located adjacent to the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theatre, the hotel offers easy access to Kyoto’s iconic cultural sites such as Yasaka Shrine and Nijo Castle. Blending seamlessly into the refined atmosphere of Kyoto’s traditional hanamachi, it embodies a true “locally rooted luxury stay.”
Access
- Approx. 10 minutes by car from Kyoto Station
- Approx. 7 minutes on foot from Keihan Railway Shimizu-Gojo Station
Hotel Overview
| Brand | Imperial Hotel |
|---|---|
| Location | Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City |
| Guest Rooms | 55 rooms |
| Floors | 7 above ground, 2 underground |
| Height | 31.50 m |
| Site Area | 3,623.17 m² |
| Total Floor Area | 10,804.24 m² |
| Structure | Steel-framed reinforced concrete, reinforced concrete, and steel structures |
| Facilities | Restaurant, bar, wellness area (spa, pool, fitness gym) |
| Design & Construction | Obayashi Corporation (Interior Design: Tomoyuki Sakakita, New Material Research Laboratory) |
| Completion | October 2025 |
Reference:
https://www.imperialhotel.co.jp/kyoto
