In Kyoto's historic Higashiyama district, the Four Seasons Kyoto stands as a testament to quiet luxury, deeply rooted in its surroundings. This hotel, set around an 800-year-old pond garden, offers guests a rare blend of contemporary comfort and centuries-old tradition.
Location
Nestled in the charming Higashiyama district, the Four Seasons Kyoto is surrounded by traditional streets, wooden townhouses, and ancient temples. The hotel is conveniently located near two major airports: Osaka Itami for domestic flights and Kansai International for international travelers. From Osaka Itami, take the Airport Limousine Bus to Kyoto Station, followed by a 10-minute taxi ride. From Kansai International, the Haruka Express train provides direct access to Kyoto Station. The hotel's quiet road ensures a peaceful atmosphere, yet iconic sights like Kiyomizu-dera temple are just a scenic 25-minute walk away, and Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine is a 20-minute drive. Public transport options include the Higashiyama Shichijo bus stop (5-minute walk) and Kyoto Station (under 15 minutes), allowing easy day trips to Nara Park, Kuramakibunecho, or the Arashiyama bamboo forest.
The Vibe
The hotel is built around Shakusui-en, a 12th-century ikeniwa (pond garden). The design mirrors Kyoto's essence: quiet, intentional, and deeply considered. Light filters through tall windows, reflecting off natural wood and stone, with the historic garden as a constant backdrop. Due to height restrictions in the district, the hotel has a low-rise structure with four storeys above ground and three below. The entrance leads into a living room-style space with sofas, bookshelves, self-serve tea, and curated artwork, creating the feel of a private residence or art gallery rather than a typical lobby.
The Service
Check-in took less than five minutes, accompanied by chocolate and tea. Communication was seamless, with all staff fluent in both English and Japanese. The attention to detail was exceptional, including a twice-daily laundry service that was especially appreciated during the peak summer heat.
Bed and Bath
The hotel offers 180 rooms, with the Deluxe category providing views of the courtyard or Myoho-in Temple grounds. I stayed in a Heritage Garden Room overlooking the Shakusui-en pond. Guests can request a plush or firm mattress topper and choose from a pillow menu featuring body pillows, horse hair, or hypoallergenic options. The decor is refined and warm, using natural wood and stone with subtle purple and lime accents. Deluxe rooms include a work desk, seating area, and sofa bed, while higher categories offer a separate living room. Bathrooms feature double sinks, a separate bath and shower, and a Japanese bidet toilet.
Food and Drink
Sushi Ginza Onodera offers an intimate omakase experience with Chef Takuya Kubo, including a private room or 10-seat chef's table. Emba Kyoto Grill and Steakhouse specializes in wood-fired cooking with a modern edge, offering à la carte or seasonal set menus. A memorable dish included Ebisu pumpkin soup with gingerbread cookies and yuzu cream, followed by Japanese beef tenderloin with béarnaise sauce. Breakfast at Emba Kyoto Grill costs 700 JPY (£32.59) and includes one made-to-order main dish (such as free-range eggs benedict with salmon) plus a breakfast bar with Western and Japanese options like squid okonomiyaki and grilled eel. The kitchen accommodates dietary requirements, including dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options.
Facilities
The wellness area spans two underground floors, featuring a 20-metre indoor pool, two large whirlpools, cabana-style loungers, an ofuro (traditional Japanese soaking bathtub), and a sauna, all open from 7am to 9pm. The spa, Kyo no Iyashi, is open from 10am to 10pm daily with seven treatment rooms. Treatments focus on local ingredients, such as the bamboo ritual using warm bamboo sticks and healing oils, and sake baths where premium rice sake is added to hot mineral water. The garden features Shakusui-tei tea house with outdoor seating overlooking the pond. I recommend the uji matcha shaved ice in summer, along with a wide selection of teas and sake (the tasting menu is highly recommended). Cultural experiences include Maiko performances, sushi masterclasses, and tea ceremonies.
Accessibility
The hotel has two wheelchair-accessible entrances, lifts to all floors, and a designated accessible room with wider sliding doors, an accessible shower, a toilet with handrails, and lowered sinks.
Pet Policy
Cats and dogs up to 6kg are allowed for a fee of 18,975 yen (£90) per stay. Food and water bowls are provided. Pets cannot be left unattended.
Check-in/Check-out
Check-in is from 3pm to midnight; check-out is before noon.
Family-Friendly
The hotel is very family-friendly, with kids' menus, a playroom in the wellness centre, and pool access from 9am to 7pm. Children receive a scavenger hunt map upon arrival, and activities include koi feeding and origami sessions.
At a Glance
Best thing: The tea house, with its beautiful views and calm atmosphere.
Perfect for: An authentic Japanese cultural experience, thanks to on-site activities and proximity to Kyoto's popular sights.
Not right for: A packed itinerary; this hotel encourages lingering and enjoying the amenities.
Instagram from: The Heritage Pond Garden.
Niki was a guest of Four Seasons Kyoto.
Address: 445-3, Myohoin Maekawa-cho, Higashiyama-ku, 605-0932 Kyoto, Japan
Phone: +81 75 541 8288
Website: fourseasons.com/kyoto/
