Werbung
In the heart of Japan's ancient capital, where the harmony of tradition and modernity intertwine, lies a haven of serenity: The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyumizu. As a recent guest to this enchanting destination, I found myself enveloped in an experience that transcended mere accommodation – it was a journey into refined luxury and unparalleled hospitality..
The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu boasts a fascinating history. Originally the Kiyomizu Elementary School, the building first opened its doors in 1869. The school moved to its current location in 1933, where it was rebuilt, and this location has been preserved to house the hotel we know today. This conversion from an educational institution to a luxurious hotel speaks volumes about the building's immense historical value and its successful transformation into a hospitality gem, as part of The Leading Hotels of the World and Forbes Travel Guide 2024.
Situated just an 8-minute walk from the renowned Kiyomizu-dera Temple, The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu offers guests a perfect blend of convenience and cultural immersion. The proximity to this iconic temple allows visitors to explore one of Kyoto's most famous landmarks with ease, while also providing a tranquil retreat away from the bustling crowds.
The architectural design retains many vestiges of the former school building, which is particularly evident on the first to fourth floors. These floors have been thoughtfully renovated to maintain the building's historical essence while incorporating modern comforts. This blend of old and newly creates an ambiance that is both nostalgic and refreshing, allowing guests to appreciate the historical context while enjoying contemporary amenities.
The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu features an expansive garden and rooftop area, offering serene spaces for relaxation and reflection. The garden, meticulously landscaped to enhance the natural beauty of the surroundings, provides a peaceful escape within the city. The rooftop area, on the other hand, offers breathtaking views of Kyoto, making it an ideal spot to unwind and take in the city's beauty from above.
From former class rooms, all of the 48 rooms, including one suite, have been transformed into luxurious guest rooms under the direction of designer Ryu Kosaka. This unique aspect of the rooms adds a layer of historical intrigue, as guests can imagine the many generations of students who once filled these spaces with learning and laughter. The rooms have been elegantly designed to provide a comfortable and luxurious stay, with every detail carefully considered to ensure the utmost comfort on a spacious 7,000-spare-meter site.
In addition to the exquisite guest rooms, The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu offers a range of amenities designed to enhance the guest experience. The first floor houses the hotel lobby, which serves as a welcoming and relaxing spot for guests to gather. The lobby's design encourages social interaction, making it an ideal place for receptions and casual meetings.
The dining experience at The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu is truly exceptional. The "restaurant library the hotel seiryu", located on the second floor, offers a unique dining setting reminiscent of a library with over 1000 books. This innovative space, which has been renovated from a former auditorium, serves breakfast to hotel guests each morning. The ambiance of the restaurant is both calming and inspiring, making it a perfect place to start the day. The restaurant can accommodate up to 44 guests, ensuring an intimate and personalized dining experience, with a choice to dine inside or on the terrace.
For those looking to relax and rejuvenate, the hotel provides a guest lounge with a capacity of 30, a fitness gym, and three private baths. The guest lounge offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere where guests can unwind and socialize. All rooms have complimentary access to the guest lounge, offering an unsurpassed view of the front of the Yasaka Pagoda, one of Kyoto´s most iconic landmarks. The fitness gym is well-equipped to cater to those who wish to maintain their fitness routine while traveling. The private baths offer a luxurious retreat, allowing guests to indulge in a soothing and refreshing experience.
The seamless blend of historical significance and modern luxury creates a unique and enriching experience that sets this hotel apart from others. The attention to detail, the dedication to preserving the building's historical essence, has been a memorable experience during my recent trip to Kyoto. For those seeking a stay that combines cultural immersion with modern comfort, The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu is undoubtedly the ideal choice.
UPDATE JULY 24: The Hotel Seiryu Kiyomizu has been awarded one Michelin Key by the esteemed Michelin Guide. Known globally for its restaurant ratings, the Michelin Guide has recently expanded to include hotels. This year marks the debut of the Michelin Guide for Asia, recognizing 108 hotels across Japan.
