By YOKO HIBINO/ Staff Writer
November 2, 2025 at 07:00 JST
A concept drawing of the exterior of the Imperial Hotel, Kyoto (Provided by Imperial Hotel Ltd.)
KYOTO--The new Imperial Hotel opening here next year that preserves part of a historic landmark will begin accepting reservations on Nov. 17.
The Imperial Hotel, Kyoto, stands in the Gion district of Higashiyama Ward, the home of geisha culture. The official opening date is March 5, 2026.
It incorporates the exterior of Yasaka Kaikan, a hall that stands on the grounds of Gion Kobu Kaburenjo, a theater for geisha and “maiko” geisha apprentices.
Built in 1936, the structure is designated by the government as a tangible cultural property.
According to Imperial Hotel Ltd., the new hotel consists of three areas: the Main Building, the Main Building Heritage and the North Wing.
The Main Building is designed to inherit the architectural style of Yasaka Kaikan.
The hotel features 55 guest rooms across five categories, ranging from Signature Suites (110–193 square meters, including balcony) to Premier rooms (50–58 square meters). Room rates start at 164,500 yen ($1,100) per night.
Facilities include restaurants, a bar, a swimming pool, a spa and a fitness gym.
Reservations can be made through the official website or by telephone.
The phone number is 03-3539-8590 from Nov. 17 to Dec. 12 and 075-531-0117 from Dec. 15 onward.
The line is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding public holidays. On Nov. 17 only, service begins at 11 a.m.
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