“Miyako Hotel” Opened in 1900
Now Officially Called “The Westin Miyako Kyoto”
Today, we’re staying at The Westin Miyako Kyoto. This historic hotel first opened over 100 years ago under the name Miyako Hotel.
It is now part of the Kintetsu Group — a major Japanese company best known for its railway network and hospitality business — and this is where the Miyako Hotel brand began. It’s also known as the “Guest House of Kyoto.”
Totally Renewed and Shiny!
You might expect an old hotel like this to feel a bit dated, but there’s no need to worry — the current building, originally constructed in 1960, was completely renovated in 2021.
It was designed by the renowned Japanese architect Togo Murano, one of the most celebrated figures in modern Japanese architecture.
Take a Short Break at the Club Lounge
There was a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, including a sparkling wine produced in Japan.
Snacks were served together as a set.
Since we planned to eat out for dinner, we kept it light and just had a small portion!
Visit Kashui-en, Designed by Togo Murano
The Westin Miyako Kyoto has an annex called Kasuien, which is said to be Togo Murano’s masterpiece.
I visited the entrance area of Kasuien without staying there.
It’s located on the hillside behind the main hotel building, with access from the 7th floor. The entrance itself is rather small.
When you enter, you’ll see a building that appears to be in the traditional sukiya style — a refined form of Japanese architecture associated with tea houses and characterized by natural materials and delicate simplicity. But that’s the key point: it only looks like a sukiya-style building, not a true one.
At first glance, it looks like an ordinary Japanese-style building, but what stands out is the roof. It’s designed with extremely thin, overlapping layers, creating a light and airy atmosphere.
It’s certainly quite different from Katsura Rikyu, the masterpiece of sukiya-style architecture I visited just a few hours ago. The ultra-thin roof was a major technical challenge to construct.
I’d love to stay here someday….
This is Kasuien as seen from the hotel’s rooftop garden. The view is beautiful from up here.
A Comfortable and Relaxing Stay
Our Junior Suite Room
Today, we’re staying in a Junior Suite. During the renovation, two guest rooms were combined to create this spacious suite.
A spacious living room,
with a bedroom next door.
There are televisions in both the living room and the bedroom. You’ll also notice many beautiful curved design elements throughout the room.
The toilet is a TOTO Neorest — round and adorable! It’s part of TOTO’s top-of-the-line luxury series, known for its advanced features and sleek design.
Of course, the bath and toilet are separate, and the washroom features a double sink.
I didn’t use the bathroom since there’s a large hot spring bath in the hotel, but the one in the room still feels nice and luxurious.
At Night, Relax and Unwind in the Beautiful Large Bath
After dining out and returning to the hotel, we headed to the SPA — a new facility that was created as part of the hotel’s major renovation.
The design feels a bit like a spaceship, and the lighting is beautiful. I think the curved design is a tribute to Togo Murano’s architectural style.
Both the indoor and outdoor baths were spacious, and there was also a sauna.
The design is inspired by Nanzen-ji, a famous temple located nearby.
Breakfast Buffet — Also Very Satisfying
Breakfast is served in the hotel’s main restaurant.
The buffet was one of the most extensive and satisfying I’ve had at any hotel recently.
The onigiri (rice balls) freshly made right in front of me were amazing.
It was quite crowded and there was a bit of a wait, so if your schedule is tight, it’s best to get there early.
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