The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto

My stay in Ritz-Carlton Kyoto was amazing. The hotel is located in the serene atmosphere of Kyoto, completely blending into the local architecture on the riverside. I arrived a bit earlier than the check-in time, but I was immediately seated and assisted with the check-in. Every single member of the staff was very friendly, helpful and the service is highly personalized. The room was spacious, and well equipped with everything you would ever need. The quality of all the amenities is just extremely high level. The bed was incredibly comfortable just like in every Ritz-Carlton hotel. The breakfast was a combination of buffet and à-la-carte options, which was the perfect balance and the space was never crowded. The property has a dedicated Pierre Hermé shop onsite, and also the breakfast had Pierre Hermé bakery items, which were all super high quality and very delicious of course. The spa is on the smaller side, but is already a huge plus to have a spa in a historic city hotel in the heart of Kyoto, where you can recharge after a day of exploration. A very minor suggestion: upon check-in I was asked if I would like to get newspapers delivered to the room, which I did, but unfortunately it only arrived in the evening. I think it would be more convenient to get the newspaper in the morning. All in all, it was an exceptional stay, worth the high price tag, and I would definitely return.

I stayed with my husband for 2 nights here on the first stop of our Japan trip, and it was such a lovely experience. Right when you arrive, the property has a elegant and intimate vibe, compared to some other similar caliber hotels that are extravagant and loud. Lorenzo welcomed us warmly with introduction and conversation in our room, while Shoko had impressively kept my husband in mind after he visited just one night last year. Our room had a huge bed, at least 1.5 king bed wide, and a balcony that opened up to the Kamo River. Breakfast felt like a fine dining event, waited on attentively and served delicate Japanese set (don't forget to try the Pierre Herme pastry). For me, the best part and cherry on top was the complimentary e-bike tour that took us early morning along the river to the Fushimi Inari Shrine. With our limited time, that was the best option for us to visit there with low crowds, take some time at the destination, and get back with the full day ahead. I would have booked cycling both mornings if not for the rain. We loved Kiyomizudera Temple and Gion district (taxi up and walk down), then passing by Nishiki Market on the way back. We also stayed at Hakone Ginyu and Andaz Tokyo on this trip, but the Ritz was hands down my favorite experience due to the warm and welcoming atmosphere and staff!

We had a great stay on this visit as our 16th anniversary. All members were incredibly attentive since arrival to departure. The location is very convenient and easy access. Special thank to Kazuho Tanaka who was arranged our dinner reservation at Kikunoi restaurant, and prepared a special treat when we get back to the hotel. We will definitely recommend your hotel for our friends and families. Thank you for making our stay such a special experience. Annop and Gilles Renault

I booked a Deluxe Courtyard view however I used a Nightly Upgrade Award to get upgraded into a Garden Terrace Suite, Mountain view. Great to see a great upgrade clear on my first stay. The room itself was beautiful, wide, and featured floor-to-ceiling windows with doors to access the outside garden terrace. The room is on the east side and is situated so that all windows are facing the Kamogawa and since it was on an upper floor I always had a peaceful view of Kyoto. The hotel itself is located north of Gion on the west side of the Kamogawa. The riverfront location provides a breathtaking view. The closest station is Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station on the subway Tozai Line however the closest major station would be Sanjo Station on the Keihan Line. The hotel grounds were also very beautiful and immaculate. The local area is fairly quiet but there is a convenience store within walking distance. I was surprised to see that, unlike usual, elite members are entitled to breakfast here. Unfortunately my experience at the breakfast buffet was just mediocre at best. The selection wasn't the largest and was just decent quality. I recall having to ask for tea 3 times before it was finally served. Perhaps it isn't so classy but it's for this reason I prefer self-serve drinks. Overall I had an excellent stay. I really appreciated the suite upgrade, beautiful accommodations, peaceful area, and the free breakfast at a luxury brand. I've stayed at Suiran, Luxury Collection and while I really liked the surrounding area, this hotel is more centrally located and is easier to access. I hope to give the Mitsui, Luxury Collection a try as well in the future.

Amazing stay at the Ritz Kyoto and overall fantastic service from everyone there. Special shoutout to Alice who hosted my wife and 10 year old daughter on two cycling tours through Kyoto on back-to-back days. She was phenomenal. Also want to shoutout Oliver who only in his 2nd week at the Ritz made the biggest impression on us while we were there. He delivered in-room dining for us and was fantastic as if he's been there a long time. Followed up with a handwritten note and some chocolates, wishing us a wonderful rest of the trip. Completely unexpected and very much appreciated.