Capella Hotels and Resorts has made its long-anticipated entry into Japan with the recent opening of the Capella Kyoto. For its inaugural property in the market, the luxury hospitality group takes a considered route, settling into the long-held rhythms of Miyagawa-cho—where kabuki, a classical Japanese performing art, was born.
Where past and present meet
One of Kyoto’s five hanamachi (geisha districts), Miyagawa-cho is known for its quieter ambience compared to nearby Gion. Within this setting of narrow streets and well-preserved architecture, the 89-key hotel rises on the former site of Shinmichi Elementary School in the style of a modern-day machiya (townhouse), willed to life by world-renowned architect Kengo Kuma alongside the Singapore-based Brewin Design Office.
The Capella Kyoto facade echoes the Miyagawa-cho district’s well-preserved machiya townhouses. Top: The hotel’s opening perfectly coincides with Japan’s sakura season.
The result is a classic Kuma masterclass in balance and restraint. A humble low-rise of four storeys, Capella Kyoto echoes the serene and traditional townhouse with its latticed screens, diffused lighting and interior thresholds. These quintessentially Japanese elements not only transport guests to a different time; they lend the property its shadows and almost dramatic, moody character.
That too feels apropos, for the Capella Kyoto is just one part of a wider cultural redevelopment in the area. Kuma and his team were also tasked with the reinvigoration of a historic Kaburenjo Theatre and a community centre along Shinmichi Street. Through the hotel’s “Capella Curates” programme, guests are granted access to Kyoto’s most closely held rituals, performances and living traditions. These are experiences rarely, if ever, open to visitors: front-row seats at the restored theatre, a kintsugi workshop led by an urushi lacquerware master, the chance to commission a bespoke pair at a 150-year-old sandal atelier.
Accommodation ranges from Deluxe City Rooms to the 206 sqm Capella Suite.
The Capella’s deep care and respect for its environs carry through to a level of service that feels thoughtful and grounded. Guest accommodation spans several categories, each designed with a strong sense of place. Premier Theatre Rooms face the Kaburenjo, Onsen Suites include private hot spring baths, while the Gion Suites offer direct views of Kenninji Temple. The hotel’s premier offering is the 206-square-metre, top-floor Capella Suite, which overlooks the Higashiyama skyline and sees all the way to the iconic five-tiered silhouette of the Yasaka Pagoda.
Across cultures and borders
Created in partnership with SingleThread, a Three Michelin-starred restaurant based in the US, Capella Kyoto’s SoNoMa by SingleThread brings a California perspective into dialogue with Kyoto’s seasonal produce. Japanese-American chef Keita Tominaga helms the restaurant, which will offer an intimate 12-seat counter and a 20-seat lounge bar in the style of an ochaya (traditional teahouse).
Elsewhere, the hotel’s culinary programme moves from French brasserie to a kappo-style late-night venue, each reflecting a measured blend of local craft and international perspective.
Capella Kyoto’s Auriga Spa features three private onsen rooms, wet and dry saunas, four treatment rooms, and a fitness centre.
Capella Kyoto does not attempt to reinterpret the city so much as work within its existing cadence. It’s the quieter approach, but in a place like Kyoto, it’s certainly the right one.
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