Background

This contemporary hotel is a showcase of Japanese talent, interpreted in a modern and unpretentious manner. Staying at Hotel Kanra Kyoto means enjoying an immersive Japanese experience at the heart of the country’s cultural capital.

What’s It Like?

The entrance of the hotel is discreet and inconspicuous but as soon as I step in, I am instantly immersed in its stylish décor. To one side of the lobby is the reception, while at the other end is a boutique for Japanese lifestyle products and a café-bar space. The aesthetic of the property is understated and minimal.

Where Is it?

Hotel Kanra Kyoto is located at the heart of central Kyoto, a short ride from the main railway station. The hotel is situated next to the famous Higashi Honganji temple complex and quite close to Kyoto’s main tourist attractions. The neighbourhood is filled with shops and restaurants too.

Rooms

The overall design of the rooms is a reference to the Machiya style of construction, for which old Kyoto is quite famous. The rooms are inspired by a traditional Japanese inn, but in a modern, international format. I stayed in the Kanra Junior suite, spread across 81 sqm. My room featured a minimalist living room with low seating and Japanese divider screens. This led to a spacious bedroom with two double beds and a separate vanity area. The best part was the bathroom, which opened out into an outdoor terrace with a jacuzzi overlooking the Kyoto skyline and temple complex.

Food and Drink

I dined at the hotel’s exquisite Japanese restaurant, Hanaroku, where there is a strong focus on seasonality. I enjoyed a teppanyaki-style dinner, accompanied by wine. You can even try The Kitchen Kanra, which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and features a host of baked dishes and pizza selections.

Meetings

If you want to have a small, informal meeting, head to the 22-seater Kanra Lounge, where you can enjoy gourmet coffee and local traditional pastries. The lounge also serves cocktails and wine, making it a great place for a quiet sundowner.

Leisure

The property features the Kanra Spa, where you can enjoy a host of exquisite treatments inspired by traditional Japanese wellness techniques.

Verdict: A trendy property to stay at for your business or leisure trip to Kyoto.

Price: Upwards of ¥40,031/ ₹26,000

Contact Hotel Kanra Kyoto, 190 Kitamachi Karasuma-dori Rokujo-sagaru Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto 600-8176 Japan
hotelkanra.jp