Six Senses Kyoto has officially opened, signifying a milestone for the Six Senses brand and its growing collection of urban retreats.
The hotel’s design pays homage to the Heian period (794-1185), when Kyoto served as Japan’s capital. Drawing inspiration from this era, often considered the nation’s “golden age” of art and culture, the hotel embodies the concept of “Miyabi” (courtly elegance).
Modern interpretations of traditional elements are evident throughout the five-star hotel. The lobby artwork exemplifies this fusion, featuring a folding screen adorned with 504 hand-crafted Rakuyaki tiles depicting the sacred Mount Kurama – a legendary setting in the Tale of Genji and the birthplace of Reiki healing.
Rooms and suites
The 81-key Six Senses hotel, part of IHG, has spaces designed for relaxation and reflection. Its accommodations range from the Premier Suite Garden with a private Japanese courtyard to the expansive Three Bedroom Penthouse Suite.
The signature Sleep With Six Senses program aims to provide a peaceful sleep with bespoke organic mattresses, temperature-regulating pillows and duvets, and organic cotton sheets. Guests can further optimise their sleep through personalised consultations that combine sleep tracker data with soothing treatments, dietary advice, and low-intensity exercise routines.
Wellness facilities and treatments
Inspired by Kyoto’s Zen philosophy, Six Senses Spa offers a unique blend of traditional healing techniques and modern science and technology. Guests can embark on their wellness journey with a personalised wellness screening, analysing key health markers to tailor recommendations based on an individual’s needs and goals.
Exclusive treatments include the Kyoto-specific ‘Ah-un’ experience, to promote inner peace and balance through Zen rituals and sound therapies. Additionally, the spa offers Watsu (aquatic bodywork) for stress relief and a Biohack Recovery Lounge equipped with contemporary recovery devices.
Six Senses Spa Kyoto also provides integrated wellness programs, ranging from half-day to six-day options, focused on sleep, detox, yoga, and fitness (available to both hotel guests and visitors).
Dining
The culinary offerings at Six Senses Kyoto follow the brand’s Eat With Six Senses philosophy, taking guests on an exploration of Japan’s ancient calendar.
Sekki, the all-day dining restaurant, features hyper-seasonal menus and beverages inspired by the 24 solar terms. Executive Chef Hiroki Shishikura’s focus on local and sustainable ingredients ensures fresh, seasonal produce on the menu.
Chef Hiroki explains, “We celebrate seasonality through food, working with local producers and artisans to provide ultra-seasonal produce that varies week-by-week.”
The hotel’s commitment to sustainability extends to Café Sekki, offering healthy treats made with natural ingredients and traditional fermentation techniques. Nine Tails, the speakeasy bar, showcases innovative cocktails alongside non-alcoholic options.
Sustainability
The hotel’s spokespeople say that sustainability remains a core value, pointing to its eco-friendly design principles, operations, and community engagement. Guests can participate in sustainability tours, explore interactive workshops at the Earth Lab, or create natural body products at the Alchemy Bar. The hotel also supports local organisations through its dedicated Sustainability Fund, contributing to forestry revitalisation efforts.
To celebrate its opening, Six Senses Kyoto has launched a limited-time ‘Now in Kyoto’ offer, providing savings on accommodation, breakfast, and hotel credits for dining and spa treatments. Rates start from US$1,002 per room, per night.
For more information, visit sixsenses.com
