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.