Background

This design hotel opened in January 2019, and is a luxury property under the Keihan Hotels & Resorts chain. This chain also has other famous hotels in Kyoto such as the Kyoto Century Hotel and the Kyoto Tower Hotel.

What’s It Like?

As soon as I step into the cavernous lobby of The Thousand Hotel, I am mesmerised by its outstanding design and Japanese minimalism. The lobby is bathed in natural light and there is a sweeping staircase, within the atrium, leading to some of the higher levels. The overall design of the hotel is a complete shift from a conventional hotel and is symbolic of modern luxury.

Where Is It?

The Thousand Kyoto’s location is really amazing. It is situated just outside the main Kyoto railway station, which makes it extremely easy if you are train travelling through Japan. The property is also located within easy reach of all the city’s major attractions and shopping district. The neighbourhood is pretty lively at night too.

Rooms

I stayed in The Thousand Premier room, which featured a large living room with a seating area and a big dining table for eating and working. There is a divider between the living room and the spacious bedroom, which opens out into a generous bathroom and vanity area. The room was tastefully done, with pleasing colours and elements of Japanese aesthetics. Other perks included a Nespresso machine, Japanese tea, a massive TV, bathrobes and slippers. The highlight was the gorgeous terrace, outside the living room, with daybeds, with great skyline views.

Food and Drink

The Thousand Kyoto’s Italian fine dining establishment, Scalae, is definitely worth a visit. I enjoyed a multi-course gourmet meal there, with fine wine, truffles and a prosciutto trolley. Breakfast was served here the next morning too, with Japanese and Western options on offer. Don’t forget to try the hotel’s Japanese restaurant Kizahashi.

Meetings

The hotel is perfect for hosting meetings and events of all sizes with different options. There are the Experience Rooms for about 40 people, all the way up to the Banquet Studio Sen, which can accommodate up to 320 people.

Leisure

The hotel has an exquisite spa, with a range of face and body treatments to soothe and relax fatigued travellers. There is also a fitness centre, a jacuzzi and a steam room.

Verdict: A luxury hotel that will appeal to both business and leisure travellers.

Price: Upwards of ¥38,329/ ₹25,000

Contact: The Thousand Kyoto, 570 Higashi Shiokoji-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto 600-8216 Japan

keihanhotels-resorts.co.jp