Hilton has today announced the opening of ROKU KYOTO, a part of LXR Hotels & Resorts which is one of Hilton’s three distinctive luxury brands. ROKU KYOTO is the brand’s debut property in Asia-Pacific and also Hilton’s inaugural property in the city.
Location
Hilton states that just like other hotels in LXR Hotels & Resorts’ portfolio, ROKU KYOTO is located in a destination that is truly one-of-a-kind. Situated beneath the breathtaking panorama of the majestic Takagamine mountains in northern Kyoto, ROKU KYOTO is nestled within the 28.6-acre Shozan Resort Kyoto, a luxury enclave home to some of Kyoto’s most notable and idyllic Japanese gardens, historic architecture and authentic tea houses. The famed Kinkaku-ji “Golden Pavilion” and other historic temples, such as the Koetsuji Temple and the Genkoan Temple are within walking distance of the hotel.
Alan Watts, President, Asia Pacific, Hilton, said:
Welcoming LXR Hotels & Resorts in Asia Pacific marks a key milestone in our expanding luxury footprint in the region, complementing the award-winning Waldorf Astoria and Conrad brands to offer the full spectrum of luxury experiences here. We are thrilled to partner with Tokyu Land Corporation and Tokyu Resorts & Stays Co., Ltd. to bring the LXR brand to Kyoto, one of the world’s most alluring destinations. I am confident that ROKU KYOTO will deliver a bespoke experience of Kyoto and fully immerse travelers in the unique charms of the city, attracting both domestic and international travelers once it is safe to travel again.
Design
The grounds on which the hotel was built was historically a renowned artisan colony where the classical Rinpa school of Japanese painting was founded around 400 years ago by Hon’ami Koetsu, a Japanese artist, poet, calligrapher, tea master, and landscape designer, considered one of the greatest and most influential artists of the 17th century. Rinpa played a significant role in nurturing important artists and craftsmen over the years and had a strong influence on the development of traditional Japanese art and culture.
Paying homage to the Takagamine area’s rich history, which was also the source of water for washi papermaking, the hotel has been designed by the international design firm, Blink Design Group, to reflect an artist’s residence. Guests can discover the multi-faceted expressions of traditional Japanese art as they explore the hotel, from exquisite lacquerware at the entrance, bamboo art pieces in the restaurant, ceramics artifacts in the spa, to karakami decorative paper in the guest rooms.
Feisal Jaffer, Global Head, LXR Hotels & Resorts, said:
LXR Hotels & Resorts feature a network of distinctive, best-in-class luxury hotels that thrive independently yet are unified by their unrivaled commitment to personalized service with each property providing a truly local and captivating experience. The highly-anticipated opening of ROKU KYOTO is the perfect addition to our expanding portfolio and an important brand milestone as the inaugural LXR property in the region. The hotel has been designed to reflect the traditions and tranquility of northern Kyoto, providing guests with authentic and meaningful experiences of the local area. These experiences are visible through the cultural threads that are woven through every part of the hotel — from the architecture and design to culinary experiences and experiential immersions that remain true to the destination’s history and heritage.
Here is a short video about this beautiful property:
Accommodations
The 114 thoughtfully designed guest rooms, infusing both traditional Kyoto design and modern Japanese aesthetic in calming earthy tones, offer a peaceful sanctuary that depicts the beauty and simplicity of Japanese materials and craftsmanship. Overlooking rich natural landscapes, guests can feel connected to the wonders of Kyoto’s storied culture and resplendent nature that evolves with the seasons.
The expansive ROKU Suite offers sweeping views of the mountains along the Tenjin River, while the Takagamine mountains can be observed from the befittingly named, PEAK Suite.
The Garden Deluxe rooms each feature a private onsen with a garden, while the Poolside Deluxe rooms are conveniently located closest to the ROKU SPA and provide direct access to the outdoor onsen thermal pool from the room’s private terrace.
Tatsuaki Takana, Managing Director and Head of Wellness Promotion Unit, Tokyu Land Corporation, said:
We’re extremely pleased about the opening of ROKU KYOTO, LXR Hotels & Resorts, and are excited to partner with Hilton again following the successful launch of KYUKARUIZAWA KIKYO, Curio Collection by Hilton in 2018. ROKU KYOTO is a true representation of the LXR brand and showcases a unique travel experience native to Kyoto, its location, history and tradition. Tokyu Land Corporation’s mission remains unchanged through the pandemic, to work with the right partners to offer the highest standard of personalized service to our guests while delivering comfort and safety to ensure their satisfaction and loyalty.
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Dining
The French restaurant TENJIN, named after the Tenjin River, welcomes guests to embark on a unique epicurean journey and indulge in French-style dishes made from the finest locally sourced seasonal ingredients. At the Chef’s Table within the restaurant, guests can witness first-hand the art of cooking by the masterful chefs as they present an exclusive seasonal course menu served with a special technique, inspired by the history and culture of the Rinpa school.
Guests can sip on signature cocktails made with local ingredients or enjoy an elegant seasonal afternoon tea at the Bar.
Guests can lounge at the “Engawa”, where they can relax to the sounds of the Tenjin River gently flowing by the indoor patio while enjoying the stunning views which transform with the seasons, providing guests a sensational visual feast all year round.
Facilities
THE ROKU SPA offers a selection of spa therapies and treatments that celebrate Japan’s healing traditions, offering an oasis of tranquility and calm. Guests may also enjoy an original blend of aromatherapy oils infused with the essence of “Kitayama sugi,” a Japanese cedar tree native to the northern Kyoto area. To reconnect with nature and revitalize their mind, body and spirit, guests can relax in the hotel’s exclusive natural onsen pool which is open throughout the year, workout in the 24-hour fitness room, or practice yoga or meditate on the tranquil lawn whilst soaking in the fresh air of Takagamine.
The concierge team will enable guests to experience the hidden treasures of Kyoto through various activities and services curated for the discerning explorer. Guests can enjoy authentic experiences including an Omuro 88 Temple Pilgrimage guided by a priest, learn “kintsugi” — the art of restoring pottery with gold, create traditional ceramic art and even try papermaking by hand with water sourced from the Tenjin River, as it had been done in the ninth century.
Recently, Hilton announced the opening of Mango House Seychelles, a part of LXR Hotels & Resorts.
Meanwhile, Hilton recently signed its 4 resort in the Maldives, Hilton Maldives Amangiri, bringing its flagship brand to the dreamy island paradise, Conrad Los Angeles at The Grand LA, DoubleTree by Hilton Osaka Castle, Sea Breeze Santorini Beach Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton and DoubleTree by Hilton Bahrain Residences. The hospitality giant also recently opened its first DoubleTree property in Germany, first Tapestry Collection property in Europe, DoubleTree by Hilton Brussels City, Hilton Vallarta Riviera All Inclusive Resort, The Ray Hotel Delray Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton, Mangrove Beach Corendon Curaçao, Curio Collection by Hilton, Canopy by Hilton Madrid Castellana and Hilton Garden Inn Austin University Capitol District. The hospitality chain will open its largest hotel in Asia-Pacific in Singapore in January 2022 has opened its 500th Home2Suites hotel. Hilton will open its first Curio Collection property in Vietnam in 2023.
Featured image by Hilton
All the other images by Hilton
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