Imperial Hotel Kyoto Reimagines a Cultural Landmark

In Kyoto’s Gion district, where the past lingers in the scent of incense and the rhythm of noh chants, a new chapter in Japanese hospitality is quietly unfolding. Spring 2026 will mark the opening of the Imperial Hotel, Kyoto—a poetic restoration of the 1936 Yasaka Kaikan, once a stage for theatrical performances and cultural gatherings.

For 135 years, Imperial Hotel has been more than a place to stay. It has been a stage for history, hosting emperors, artists, and global dignitaries. Its Tokyo flagship, famously designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1923, introduced Japan to hotel weddings, dinner shows, and earthquake-resistant architecture. That legacy of innovation and cultural stewardship now finds new expression in Kyoto.

Architectural Memory, Reimagined

The Kyoto property is a masterclass in architectural preservation and contemporary design. Led by Obayashi Corporation—the same firm that built the original structure—and architect Tomoyuki Sakakida of New Material Research Laboratory, the hotel retains 16,387 original exterior tiles and employs traditional ikedori techniques to carefully remove and reuse materials. The interiors embrace Sakakida’s “Old is New” philosophy, where ancient craftsmanship meets modern refinement.

Guests will choose from three room styles—Preservation, Renovation, and Extension—each offering a distinct dialogue between past and present. Terracotta from Tokoname and contributions from artisans who worked on Wright’s Tokyo masterpiece create a tactile link to the brand’s storied lineage.

Tokyo: The Beacon of Modern Hospitality

The Imperial Hotel, Tokyo remains the brand’s flagship—a symbol of Japanese hospitality since 1890. Its most iconic chapter began in 1923, when Frank Lloyd Wright’s earthquake-resistant design famously withstood the Great Kanto Earthquake on the very day it opened. Known as the “Jewel of the Orient,” the Wright Imperial fused mythical beauty, organic materials, and cultural symbolism, introducing Japan to hotel weddings and dinner shows.

Today, the hotel offers 909 rooms and suites, and is undergoing a visionary transformation as part of the Tokyo Cross Park Vision. Architect Tsuyoshi Tane of ATTA is designing a new main building that will redefine the skyline near Ginza and the Imperial Palace. In 2025, the hotel earned the VERIFIED™ Responsible Hospitality certification from Forbes Travel Guide and the top-tier “5 Sakura” rating for sustainability, thanks to initiatives like CO₂-free electricity, vegan menus, and reduced plastic use.

Kamikochi: Nature as Sanctuary

In the Japanese Alps, the Imperial Hotel, Kamikochi offers a seasonal retreat that feels like a haiku in architectural form. Opened in 1933 and nestled within Kamikochi National Park—a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and Special Natural Monument—the hotel’s 74 rooms blend rustic charm with refined hospitality. It has long been a sanctuary for poets, artists, and nature lovers.

In celebration of its 90th anniversary, Kamikochi launched a sustainability initiative focused on carbon neutrality, food waste recycling, and community engagement. The property earned the “5 Sakura” rating and continues to set the standard for eco-conscious luxury in remote settings.

A New Standard for Sustainable Luxury

Imperial Hotel, Kyoto is not just a design triumph—it is a statement of environmental intent. Following the lead of its Tokyo, Kamikochi, and Osaka counterparts, the property aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and has earned the highest “5 Sakura” rating from the Sakura Quality ESG certification system.

With just 55 rooms, a spa, pool, dining venues, and a signature bar, the Kyoto hotel offers intimacy over opulence. It joined The Leading Hotels of the World in April 2025, affirming its place among the world’s finest independent luxury properties. But its true distinction lies in its spirit—an embodiment of omotenashi, Japan’s philosophy of heartfelt service.

A Legacy Reborn

Under Chairman Hideya Sadayasu’s leadership, Imperial Hotel, Ltd. is preparing for its 150th anniversary in 2040 with a renewed focus on cultural preservation, sustainability, and immersive guest experiences. The Kyoto property is not merely an expansion—it is a reaffirmation of the brand’s mission.

“As we look toward the future, our goal is to create a new stage where the next generation of hotel staff can welcome guests with warmth, pride, and innovation,” said Sadayasu. “Imperial Hotel, Kyoto embodies everything we stand for—timeless legacy, masterful craftsmanship, and the enduring spirit of Japanese hospitality.”

In Kyoto, where tradition is never far from the present, Imperial Hotel’s newest chapter feels not only timely, but timeless.