Luxury Hotel in Higashiyama, Kyoto: The Westin Miyako Kyoto
Located in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, where history and nature harmoniously coexist, The Westin Miyako Kyoto is a luxury hotel highly popular among both domestic and international travelers. This is a place where you can rejuvenate your body and mind in an elegant atmosphere, offering a truly extraordinary stay.
In this article, we will share a detailed account of our actual stay, including the hot spring, dining, and guest room experience.
Convenient Access with Underground Parking
Arriving by car is easy, thanks to the spacious underground parking. Guests can park overnight for 1,500 yen. Check-in was smooth, and the staff were courteous from the very beginning. (Guests can obtain a parking pass from the hotel, allowing them to exit and re-enter during their stay.)
Guest Rooms with Stunning Views Over Kyoto
Our room offered a breathtaking panoramic view of Kyoto city. From the window, we could see the grand torii gate of Heian Shrine and the Ferris wheel at Kyoto City Zoo.
The room interior featured a simple yet sophisticated design.
The bathroom was spacious, with stylish decor that left a lasting impression.
Amenities were plentiful, and extra towels were provided for added comfort.
The minibar was stocked with both soft drinks and alcoholic beverages.
Kyoto’s Largest Natural Hot Spring SPA “Kachō”
One of the main highlights of this hotel is SPA “Kachō”, opened in 2021.
Using the Kyoto Keage Hot Spring sourced from within the hotel grounds, this large spa facility covers an impressive 2,100㎡.
With a design inspired by Kyoto’s iconic Suirokaku Aqueduct, a charming semi-open-air bath, a gym, and treatment rooms, the facility offers a truly luxurious experience.
Access is limited to hotel guests and members only, ensuring a quiet and relaxing atmosphere.
Gourmet Dinner Buffet with Live Kitchen
For dinner, we enjoyed the buffet at “Raku,” an all-day dining restaurant located on the second floor of the East Wing.
Based on the theme “Counters to Delight the Senses,” live kitchen stations served tempura, roast beef, bread, and desserts.
It was a luxurious experience to watch the chefs at work right in front of us.
The buffet featured a variety of seasonal dishes made with ingredients from the Kyoto area. The freshly fried tempura and tender roast beef were especially outstanding.
A Memorable Breakfast with Live Stations
The breakfast buffet was also lavish and varied. One of the highlights was the Onigiri Counter, where guests could choose their favorite fillings—such as salmon or kelp—and watch as staff hand-shaped them fresh. Enjoying them warm was a real treat.
With a good balance of both Japanese and Western options, including omelets, French toast, and miso soup with rich dashi flavor, breakfast was a satisfying start to the day for both body and soul.
Making Your Kyoto Stay Unforgettable
The Westin Miyako Kyoto excels in access, views, hot springs, and cuisine—all at a high standard. It is highly recommended for those seeking a luxurious stay in Kyoto. We left with the desire to return during cherry blossom or autumn foliage season, making it a truly memorable experience.
Basic Information
- Hotel Name: The Westin Miyako Kyoto
- Address: 1 Awataguchi Kachocho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Japan
- Parking: Available (1,500 yen per night for guests)
- Spa Facility: Natural hot spring “Kachō” exclusively for guests
- Restaurant: “Raku” – popular buffet-style live kitchen
- Official Website: The Westin Miyako Kyoto
*Information in this article is as of December 2023. Please check the official website for the latest details.