"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe? A compact, Jenga-like structure built cleverly into the maze of Kyoto's temple-dense Higashiyama ward. What's the backstory? The structure is a partnership of the Pritzker, Takenaka (a 17th-generation construction family responsible for many of Japan's temples), and Kyoyamato families, with Tony Chi as interior designer. Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book? I stayed in the Higashiyama House suite, an airy 970-square-foot penthouse with sloped tamo wood ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping views of Higashiyama and the Yasaka Pagoda. The king-sized bed was spacious and extremely comfortable, and the bathroom had a circular two-person marble tub stocked with Japanese bath salts and double sinks. Furniture included two modern, heather gray wingback reading chairs with lamps, wicker ottomans, and beautiful wooden shelves and tables. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi? No, Wi-Fi was free and fine. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at? The five food and beverage spots are highlights. Yasaka is the Japanese teppanyaki restaurant, with modern takes on grilled wagyu and seasonal Japanese vegetables. Pair it with a glass from Kyoto's Tamba winery or a Japanese chardonnay. Kyoyamoto, Kyoto’s famed Japanese kaiseki restaurant, has been around long before the hotel and is worth visiting even if you are not spending the night. Expect an ornate presentation of seasonal dishes in exquisite plates, which the restaurant has such a big collection of that they have to keep it in a storage facility. Kyoto Bistro is the casual, contemporary café with its own entrance, making it a neighborhood favorite. It holds its own food-wise with steaks, gratins, and salads, though for visitors seeking Japanese classics, this may not be the best bet. The Living Room is a lounge space where guests can enjoy seasonal, coursed afternoon tea pairings—the upgraded menu includes foie gras and truffles. And lastly, there's the Kohaku bar. Breakfast can and should be served in your room at least once—it's prepared by the Kyoyamoto team, featuring charcoal-toasted nori, grilled fish, chawanmushi, tofu, simmered beef, and a rotating seasonal items. And the service? Service was straightforward and excellent, and sets a new standard for Kyoto. The urban and cordial staff remember your name and will answer you in either Japanese of English, or a seamless mix of both. The staff can anticipate your needs in a practical way, whether you need a taxi, umbrella, or help holding a bag while you fish out your business cards. The concierge is extremely plugged into the dining Kyoto scene, but don't expect casual restaurant picks. What type of travelers will you find here? This tribe is a mix of affluent, designed-minded families from China and the U.S., wealthy creatives from Japan, and artsy travelers seeking Kyoto's combination of traditional and modern. The afternoon tea seemed to be a hit with many Asian visitors, less with Westerners. What about the neighborhood? Does the hotel fit in, make itself part of the scene? The construction is a stroke of genius the way in the way it fits seamlessly into the neighborhoods, stacked on a hill with a maze of hallways and corridors and garden paths that you cannot see until you're in them. It's unlike any other chain hotel and more like many of the traditional ryokan in Japan. The bustling and slightly tourist-filled streets are just outside the structure, and it's not gated, but pleasantly open to the public. This set up is a model for hospitality. For those who want to sightsee and temple hop, this is probably the city's best option to do so. The views of the pagoda remind you of your whereabouts, and keep things grounded. Is there anything you'd change? The spa feels like a bit of an afterthought. We had a couples massage and it was great, with excellent therapists, but the spa area, with a sauna, seto bath, and steam room is cramped. Any other hotel features worth noting? Don't miss spending time in the garden, which is not easy to find. The ancient tea house, perched on rocks, is also worth seeing. Breakfast in the room is a must. Bottom line: Worth it? Why? The current price is probably too steep for casual everyday travelers. For those who have the money, the views here are sublime and the construction and architecture detail are museum-worthy. For those who want to experience Kyoto's temples and be close to the action, you can't beat the location and the views." - Adam H. Graham
