Steeped in history and tradition, the ancient imperial capital is known for its centuries-old temples and shrines. But it’s also a surprisingly hip destination with scores of stylish shops, trendy bars, and a legit coffee scene. If you’re looking for a stay that captures the spirit of today, look no further than the Ace Hotel Kyoto. The brand — which started in Seattle and has outposts in Brooklyn, Toronto, and more — brings its cool-kid-on-the-block energy to Kyoto in a big way.
Design & Character
Commune Design, the modern facade of the former telephone building contrasts with the more traditional architecture in the area and leads into the loft-like lobby where artistry and craftsmanship take center stage. A larger-than-life textile piece created by Kagoshima-based community organization Shobu Gakuen, noren curtains, and giant custom ceramic pots by Kazunori Haman are on display. The always-smiling staff welcomes guests from behind the hammered copper donut-shaped check-in desk. Digital nomads use the mid-century-inspired furniture as a home base for remote work. Tubular copper light fixtures and timber ornament the soaring ceilings.
The Rooms
Rooms hit the same design high notes as the rest of the hotel but inject more old-school Americana flair into the mix. Sputnik coat hook by Osvaldo Borsani, guitars, record players, and leather and denim bolsters give off West Coast 1960s verve. While benches to remove shoes upon entry, deep soaking tubs, tatami-lined bedside tables, and robes for guests to wear while lounging harken back to the local cultural traditions. It’s fitting that works by Samiro Yunok, a Japanese folk artist who studied under the founder of the Mingei movement, Shoji Hamada, decorate the walls.
Food & Drink
The creative spotlight continues on the culinary side of things. Celebrated chefs from around the world bring international flavors to the party. Legendary Philly chef Marc Vetri imports his saucy style to Mr. Maurice’s Italian, an indoor/outdoor rooftop spot for pasta, wood-fired pizza, vino, and drinks. Kōsa celebrates seasonality and pairs its signature California-meets-Kyoto cuisine with a selection of natural wines.
When night falls, Piopiko, the brainchild of Los Angeles native Wes Avila, serves tacos and cocktails in a buzzy, sprawling space that accepts “uno mas” as an appropriate way to ask for another round. The cozy private room (which can be rented for special events or group hangs) feels like a VIP section in a club with a U-shaped leather couch and vintage Katsumi Watanabe photos of Tokyo nightlife. The ground floor houses the first Stumptown Coffee Roasters in Japan.
The Amenities
The lobby doubles as a workspace and crash zone in between sightseeing. The dedicated gallery space hosts rotating artist-in-residence exhibits.
Don’t let the overall good-time vibe fool you. The property possesses spaces for contemplation and quietude — namely, the leafy courtyard garden. Sakuras even bloom in the spring.
Spa & Wellness
There’s no dedicated wellness area, although a 24/7 gym is available. Rooms have tubs and wings+horns bathrobes for relaxing after a day of temple-hopping, eating, and drinking.
Location & Neighborhood Recs
Located in Nakagyo Ward just steps from Karasuma Oike metro station, Ace Hotel Kyoto is a central and convenient crash pad for experiencing everything the city has to offer. It’s connected to an upscale retail complex and within walking distance of Nishiki Market and the Kyoto International Manga Museum, as well as countless shops, cafés, and restaurants — including Honke Owariya for soba dating back to the mid-Edo period and Sumi-yaki Torikou for yakatori.
Fast Facts
Location: Kyoto, Japan
Vibe: Sprawling urban meeting point of contemporary Japanese craftsmanship and retro Americana energy.
Rating: Four-star
Room Count: 213
Pricing: starting at $180 nightly
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The gallery-worthy original art from Japanese artists.
Dining: Fuel up for a day of sightseeing at Stumptown Coffee Roasters. When hunger hits, take your pick of Italian at Mr. Maurice's Italian, fresh, seasonal fare at Kōsa, or tacos and tequila at Piopiko.
Amenities: Three restaurants; coffee shop; room service; WiFi; custom bathrobes from wings+horns; bath products by uka Japan; record player; Tivoli radio; curated mini fridge and bar; 24-hour gym
Nearby Attractions: Nishiki Market; Kyoto Imperial Palace; Nijō Castle; Pontocho Alley; Gion
Airport: Kansai International Airport (KIX)
Kyoto, Japan
