Ace Hotel Kyoto stands as a tribute to the city’s rich history and creative spirit, seamlessly merging ancient traditions with contemporary lifestyle. The hotel is located within the historic ShinPhuKan complex, originally a 1920s telephone office, and has been designed to preserve historic roots while offering modern comforts and amenities. Earlier this year, Ace Hotel Kyoto earned its spot on the prestigious MICHELIN Key list for the top hotels in Japan, further showcasing the excellence the hotel continues to deliver. This accolade invites guests to experience Kyoto’s unique charm, making it a sought-after destination for discerning travellers.
Interior
Designed by Atelier Ace in partnership with longtime collaborators Commune Design and renowned architecture studio Kengo Kuma & Associates, Ace Hotel Kyoto exemplifies an East meets West aesthetic philosophy. This design approach marries a deep appreciation for natural materials and the elevation of craft with meticulous attention to detail, emphasising the relationship between people and their environment. The hotel stands as a heartfelt homage to Kyoto, utilising regional materials and thoughtfully curated plants throughout the space, including the serene garden courtyard, inviting guests to connect with the seasonal nature of Kyoto.
The hotel’s highly textured design features a unique structure that prioritises light, scale and sensitivity to the surrounding landscape. Warmth is layered through original art, rich colours, and hand-wrought tiles, ceramics, fabrics, and accents, creating an inviting atmosphere. These elements forge an oasis of comfort that embodies Kyoto’s distinctive spirit, inviting guests to savour the beauty of tradition and modernity in every detail.
Location / Neighborhood
As part of the ShinPuhKan complex, Ace Hotel Kyoto is situated in a prime location allowing visitors to explore the city’s rich tapestry of cultural treasures. The bustling Nishiki Market, the Museum of Kyoto, Kyoto Art Center, and unique finds such as the celebrated 200-year old confectionery shop, Kamesuehiro, are all easily reached via foot or train, with direct access to the South entrance of Karasuma Oike Station available from the hotel. Ace Hotel Kyoto’s neighbours in the unique ShinKuhPan complex include both local and international shopping destinations such as the beloved BEAMS Japan, Maison Kitsuné, Pilgrim Surf + Supply, Le Labo and the modern bespoke Kimono tailors Y & SONS, alongside cafes and restaurants. Ace Hotel Kyoto serves as an ideal base for both locals and travellers looking to immerse themselves in the unique city, no matter what they choose to explore in Kyoto.
Unique Programming
The changing seasons bring an ever-evolving experience for guests to embrace the beauty of Kyoto, and Ace Hotel Kyoto sets itself apart through its vibrant and diverse programming that engages both local and visitors. Where East meets West, inspiring energies collide, creating unique programs that not only enhance the guest experience but also solidify Ace Hotel Kyoto as a key player in the local cultural landscape and a hub for cultural happenings, with the hotel partnering with important cultural citywide events such as Ambient Kyoto and Kyotographie International Photography Festival.
Ongoing initiatives include Wax Works, a quarterly record fair featuring live performances, where attendees can discover rare vinyl and shop for music, as well as Ace’s global Artist in Residency program, which invites artists to complete a month-long working stay at an Ace Hotel, culminating in an exhibition of their new works. Earlier this year, the hotel served as a cultural space for the celebration of the late Ryuichi Sakamoto, hosting a special event with renowned architect Kengo Kuma to honor the influential artist’s legacy.
noma Residency (October 8 – December 18)
Since October 8, Ace Hotel Kyoto has been hosting the celebrated Copenhagen restaurant noma, along with the groundbreaking team for its second residency. This extraordinary culinary experience, led by Chef René Redzepi, features a curated tasting menu inspired by the distinct flavours of season, showcasing local ingredients and craftsmanship. Running through December 18, 2024, the residency invites guests to to experience an extraordinary dining journey enriched by Kyoto’s unique culinary heritage and the changing colours of the Autumn leaves.