A former elementary school site in Kyoto’s historic Miyagawa-cho district will soon make way for Capella Kyoto when it opens in March 2026.

Designed by Kengo Kuma and Associates and Brewin Design Office, the 89-room hotel is steps from Kenninji – Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple – and the celebrated Miyagawa-cho Kaburenjo Theatre, where geiko and maiko perform seasonal dances.

At the luxury outpost, just six suites come with a private onsen, while the brand’s signature Auriga Spa features three private onsen rooms, wet and dry saunas, four treatment rooms, and a gym. Two restaurants and a peaceful moss garden complete the site.

Guests should also make time for the curated activities list, which gives access to rare local traditions.

For instance, the Whispers of Miyagawa-cho Experience enters the refined world of Kyoto’s geiko and maiko in an intimate private ochaya, the exclusive teahouses of Gion. A maiko performs traditional dance, accompanied by the three-stringed shamisen, a delicate art form preserved across generations.

Step by Step: The Soul of Geta visits a 150-year-old atelier where craftspeople create geta – traditional elevated wooden sandals.

As part of opening specials, two packages, Gion Whisper and Capella Sojourn, are available for bookings from 23 March 2026.

Source: https://www.travelweekly-asia.com/Travel-News/Hotel-News/Capella-Kyoto-opens-March-2026?