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On my second stay at The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu, the city still carried the warmth of late summer, yet subtle signs of autumn were already emerging. The evenings grew cooler, the first maple leaves began to turn and Kyoto seemed to quietly prepare for its most enchanting season. This transition from summer to autumn made my experience even more profound, blending the vibrant energy of late summer with the contemplative beauty of fall. If you would like to compare, you can also read my first article about Seiryu Kyoto here..
A Historic School Transformed into a Luxury Hotel. Originally built in 1933 as Kiyomizu Elementary School, the building has been thoughtfully reimagined as a luxury hotel that combines historic charm with modern elegance. Walking through its corridors one feels both nostalgia and sophistication, a unique connection to Kyoto’s cultural narrative.
The transformation pays homage to its history. High ceilings, wide hallways and carefully preserved architectural elements create a unique atmosphere. Guests can even find an archive corner that displays photographs and documents from the time when the building was still a school, further enhancing the feeling of continuity and authenticity.
Situated in Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district, the hotel offers quiet exclusivity while remaining just a short walk from Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. Guests can enjoy seasonal walks among shrines, gardens and narrow lanes without the bustle of crowded tourist zones. From the hotel’s terrace and lounge one can admire the Yasaka Pagoda rising above the autumn foliage, a view that changes beautifully throughout the day as the light shifts from dawn to dusk.
Wellness Highlight: Exclusive Temple Yoga at Ryōsoku-in. A defining feature of my stay was the exclusive yoga session at Ryōsoku-in Temple, offered only to Seiryu guests. Ryōsoku-in, part of the Rinzai Zen tradition, is a hidden temple in Kyoto renowned for its calm Zen gardens and meditation practices. Arriving there early in the morning felt like stepping into a sacred world. The cool air carried the scent of moss and stone, the temple grounds were wrapped in quiet and the first rays of sunlight filtered gently through sliding doors. The practice was guided with mindful precision, each movement designed to harmonize body, breath and environment. The rustle of leaves, the sound of birds awakening and the stillness of the Zen garden amplified the meditative atmosphere. It was not merely a yoga class but a spiritual immersion into Kyoto’s rhythm, a moment where wellness and cultural tradition intertwined.
This program, officially launching in October, reflects the hotel’s growing commitment to wellness and mindfulness. Experiencing it during the early trial period felt intimate and deeply personal, a reminder that wellness can be both grounding and transformative when practiced in such an inspiring setting.
Private Onsen and Spa Indulgence. The hotel also offers a private onsen experience designed as a retreat within a retreat. There are several distinct bath spaces, each with its own aesthetic identity, high ceilings and an open, spacious feel. The design encourages a sense of release. Warm lighting, natural materials and soothing water combine to create an atmosphere of calm. Hand towels, amenities and thoughtful details are prepared for each guest, allowing you to enter the bath without distraction.
Time here flows differently. Whether in the quiet of morning or the stillness of evening, the private bath becomes a sanctuary where the outside world fades away. Surrounded by subtle hints of nature, including glimpses of seasonal foliage, I felt completely renewed after each session.
Culinary Excellence with a Seasonal View. Throughout the day, the lounge offers seasonal sweets, light snacks and drinks, while evenings bring a refined atmosphere with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. The large glass walls create a sense of openness and connection to the cityscape, making it a space for both quiet indulgence and social enjoyment.
Rooms: Elegance and Tranquility. My room combined minimalist Japanese aesthetics with modern comfort. Large windows framed the first signs of autumn, while natural light illuminated a serene and calming interior. The furnishings were carefully chosen, with simple lines, natural textures and a design that emphasized spaciousness without unnecessary decoration. After exploring the cultural treasures of Kyoto, returning to this sanctuary felt like a gentle pause, a space to reflect and rejuvenate.
Cultural Experiences Beyond the Stay. Seiryu goes beyond luxury by offering curated cultural programs. Guests can participate in tea ceremonies or observe seasonal temple rituals. These experiences allow travelers to connect more deeply with Kyoto’s traditions, creating memories that extend beyond sightseeing. With its unique history, cultural programs, wellness focus and refined luxury, The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu offers more than just accommodation. It provides an immersive journey into Kyoto’s traditions and seasonal beauty.
Its transformation from an elementary school into a luxury hotel adds a narrative layer that few properties can match. The combination of exclusive temple yoga, private onsen indulgence, curated cultural workshops and panoramic dining experiences ensures that every guest encounter is meaningful and memorable. My second stay confirmed why this property it is one of Kyoto’s most exceptional luxury hotels. The seamless blend of history, modern elegance, cultural experiences and wellness offerings, especially temple yoga at Ryōsoku-in and private onsen indulgence, created a retreat that was both restorative and inspiring. If you would like to revisit my first Seiryu Kyoto experience you can find it here.