Located in a luxurious setting adjacent to UNESCO World Heritage sites, historic landmarks, and the picturesque natural beauty of Arashiyama, the Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto offers an exceptional experience that stays with guests as unforgettable memories. Alongside top-tier facilities and services, it provides experiences that are unique to Arashiyama, ensuring a truly remarkable stay.

The hotel's main feature is its location, offering a breathtaking view of the looming Arashiyama and the emerald-green Hozu River right before your eyes. It is a popular destination among guests for its panoramic vistas, including the lightly pink-tinted Arashiyama during spring.

Particularly noteworthy is the café Saryo Hassui, which is housed in the historic building Hasshoken dating back over 100 years, renovated to its former glory. From its terrace, guests can enjoy the ever-changing scenery of Arashiyama and the beloved Hozu River, cherished by many historical figures.

Moreover, guests are treated to a complimentary champagne service at Saryo Hassui during the evening hours.

For dinner, the restaurant Kyoto Suiran is highly recommended, offering a unique fusion of French culinary aesthetics with the traditional kaiseki style, providing an unprecedented dining experience.

Among the 39 modern-designed rooms adorned with touches of traditional Japanese beauty, 17 rooms are equipped with open-air baths, allowing guests to enjoy the natural hot springs in complete privacy.

English-speaking staff are available on-site. Hotel brochures are available in both English and Chinese, and Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the entire hotel.

While many cherry blossom viewing spots in Arashiyama are within walking distance from the hotel, Tenryu-ji Temple is particularly recommended. This historically significant temple, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto," boasts the enchanting "Sogenchi Teien" garden, designated as Japan's first Special Place of Scenic Beauty. Within this garden, surrounding the Tahoden (Many-Treasures Hall), you'll find cascading cherry blossoms (shidarezakura) and Somei Yoshino cherry trees in full bloom.

The temple grounds feature around 200 cherry trees, including mountain cherry blossoms, and the view from the Bokyo Hill is truly breathtaking! Access from the Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto, to Tenryu-ji Temple is superb, with just a 2-minute walk.

Nestled beside the Oigawa River, renowned for its Hozugawa River cruises, lies the luxurious Japanese-style resort Hoshinoya Kyoto in the heart of Arashiyama. Its most distinctive feature is the approach to the facility. A private boat ride exclusively for guests, offering a scenic cruise along the river, provides a gateway to the extraordinary. This 10-minute journey allows guests to savor the ever-changing landscapes, serving as a unique welcome to the Hoshinoya Kyoto experience.

The "Yama no Hashi" rooms, which strongly preserve the design elements of traditional architecture, offer breathtaking views of the fully bloomed cherry blossoms in the "Inner Garden" below. All 25 rooms feature river views, allowing guests to admire the ancient cherry and maple trees through window frames resembling artwork.

English-speaking staff are available on-site. Hotel brochures are provided in English and Chinese, and Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the entire property.

If you're keen on enjoying the scenery, the "Sky Teahouse" offers a top-notch view. Designed as a terrace overlooking the Oigawa River flowing in front of Hoshinoya Kyoto, it provides a panoramic vista of the scenic beauty of Oku-Arashiyama.

During spring, guests can admire the mountain cherry blossoms from a seemingly close distance, and in the evening, the teahouse is romantically illuminated. The cuisine at Hoshinoya Kyoto, which values reflecting the seasonal changes in nature through its dishes, is exceptional. In spring, they serve Kyoto cuisine that expresses the arrival of spring through the bitterness and gentle fragrance of budding ingredients, meticulously presented in both preparation and serving.

During the season from March 25 to April 9, guests can enjoy exclusive reservations of the "Hanazakura Terrace" or indulge in an elegant experience aboard a yakatabune (traditional Japanese houseboat) with the "Oku-Arashiyama Hanami Stay." At the Hanazakura Terrace, guests can admire a breathtaking view with two shidarezakura (weeping cherry trees) directly above and surrounded by Somei Yoshino and Yamazakura cherry blossoms. It's a luxurious moment to savor welcome cocktails and sweets. In the evening, guests can enjoy a special dinner called "Hanami Zen" featuring spring ingredients while viewing the cherry blossoms in a different ambiance.

The following morning, guests can savor a special breakfast aboard the Hoshinoya Kyoto's private yakatabune "Hisui," while elegantly admiring the cherry blossoms in full bloom in the Arashiyama ravine known as "Rankei."

The area around Arashiyama, just a stone's throw from the boat dock of Hoshinoya Kyoto, has long been beloved by the aristocracy for its famous sights such as cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage. Along the riverbank, rows of cherry trees extend, and during full bloom, the entire mountain is dyed a pale pink, offering a magnificent view of the expansive cherry blossom landscape. It is highly recommended to take in this scenery while overlooking the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge and the Katsura River, symbolizing Arashiyama in Kyoto.

Established in 1888, Kyoto Hotel Okura holds the distinction of being Kyoto's oldest hotel, having welcomed numerous guests from both domestic and international origins. Situated in the heart of Kyoto city at Kawaramachi-Oike, it enjoys proximity to the Kamogawa River, the lush urban park of Kyoto Imperial Palace Gardens, and the bustling dining district of Pontocho. This central location within walking distance to many tourist attractions adds to its charm.

The tranquil and serene ambiance, harmonizing Japanese and European aesthetics, along with the premium service and hospitality nurtured in Kyoto, are some of our proud features.

English-speaking staff are always available. We provide hotel brochures in English, and Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the entire property.

Foreign guest commented: "The concierge speaks fluent English and always eagerly listened to our questions, helping us every step of the way," and "During our 3-day stay, we were impressed by the professionalism of the staff. Breakfast was delicious, and the breathtaking view of the city from the window was fantastic. We are grateful to the staff at Teppanyaki 'Tokiwai' and the bar 'Chippendale' for providing us with a wonderful dinner."

With a total of 321 rooms, the hotel offers a wide variety of room types including Executive, Family, Twin, Double, and Single. All rooms are located on the 7th floor or above, providing sweeping views of the Higashiyama landscape and the historic cityscape of Kyoto, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their private time in comfort.

One of the highlights is the unparalleled view of Kyoto city, which can be enjoyed from approximately 60 meters above ground, including the top-floor suites and the breakfast venue, "Top Lounge Horizon." This panoramic vista of Kyoto's cityscape is a unique feature of Kyoto Hotel Okura. Additionally, guests can indulge in a variety of dining options, including French cuisine, Kyoto cuisine, teppanyaki, and Chinese cuisine, as well as cafes and bars, catering to different preferences and moods.

Located almost at the center of the city, Kyoto Imperial Palace Park is a vast park covering approximately 4 kilometers around the former residence of the Emperor, the Kyoto Imperial Palace. It takes about a 15-minute walk from the hotel to reach the park. With approximately 50,000 trees growing within the park, including plum, cherry, peach, and maple trees, visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature throughout the seasons.

During the spring season, visitors can encounter elegant cherry blossoms that adorn the history of emperors and nobles, such as the early-blooming "Itozakura" that heralds the arrival of spring, the gracefully weeping cherry tree "Demizu no Shidarezakura," and the legendary "Kurumagaeshi Sakura" that Emperor Go-Mizunoo was said to have admired and ordered his carriage to turn back.

Located in the Okazaki area, known for its history and art scene, HOTEL MASTAY Jingu-michi offers a convenient yet tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, within walking distance from famous cherry blossom spots like Heian Shrine and Keage Incline. Each of its 16 small-scale luxury apartments is equipped with a kitchen and a washer-dryer, making it perfect for long-term stays. The hotel also offers popular rickshaw tours to explore its original cherry blossom viewing spots, inspired by Jinrikisha Ebisuya.

At HOTEL MASTAY Jingu-michi, there are generally no meal-inclusive accommodation plans available. However, upon request, guests can enjoy a pop-up restaurant experience featuring Chef Ryo Sakatsuji, who previously served as the head chef at the luxury Italian restaurant Ristorante t.v.b in Gion, Kyoto (starting from the Standard Plan at 6,050 yen, etc.).

The dishes, made with carefully selected ingredients from Higuchi Farm with a 400-year history, as well as premium seafood and mountain delicacies from around the world, are all exquisite. Guests can savor special spring seasonal menus exclusive to the hotel. Additionally, the opportunity to engage in conversations with top chefs in a private setting adds to the charm of the experience.

With a total of 16 rooms, each room is spacious, measuring over 40 square meters, allowing for ample private space in this small-scale hotel. The luxurious suites, "Kirameki/Kagayaki" (1-6 guests + up to 2 extra guests), inspired by the shimmer and radiance of water, the popular "Aoi" (1-2 guests + up to 1 extra guest) featuring a hanging chair, and the "Aka" (2-person and 4-person options) offering a choice between two or four beds. All rooms feature spacious layouts designed for relaxation and comfort.

English-speaking staff are available at all times, and Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the hotel.

Foreign guests have praised the hotel, citing its excellent access to lively areas like Gion and Kawaramachi. They also appreciated the cleanliness and user-friendly amenities, stating, "Perfect location and facilities. The staff are very friendly and helpful."

Just a 5-minute walk from the hotel is the Heian Shrine, established in 1895 as a shrine for the citizens. The shrine's precincts, with its pond garden in the circuit style, span approximately 33,000 square meters and boast a magnificent sight of numerous weeping cherry blossoms covering the sky like a canopy. The "Sakon no Sakura," aged over 100 years, adorning the vermilion-painted Taijokuden, is also renowned. During the cherry blossom season, you can also try your luck with the Sakura-colored flower fortune slips (300 yen), so be sure to check them out.

Situated just a 10-minute stroll from Shijo Subway Station and in close proximity to cherry blossom havens such as Yasaka Shrine and Maruyama Park, Yuzuya Ryokan offers a tranquil retreat amidst the lively atmosphere of Gion, transporting guests to another world. This authentic Japanese inn seamlessly integrates the essence of Kyoto's four seasons into its culinary offerings, featuring dishes crafted from locally-sourced seasonal ingredients, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts. Housed within a meticulously restored building dating back to the early Showa era, the inn radiates an exquisite charm, characterized by its vintage sliding doors and lattice windows.

However, the ultimate pleasure awaits at Isshin Kyoku, the restaurant located on the first floor, where the subtle aroma of yuzu fills the air, enhancing the entire dining experience.

"Isshin Kyoku" offers a menu featuring Kyoto's local vegetables, tofu, yuba, Kyoto beef, and fresh seafood from Wakasa, as well as seasonal ingredients from various regions of Japan. The restaurant not only excels in its cuisine but also provides a serene atmosphere with a garden featuring a flowing waterfall at the entrance, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the tranquil ambiance of Kyoto.

Dishes infused with the fragrant essence of carefully selected yuzu are highly praised here. Especially renowned are the signature yuzu hot pot and yuzu rice porridge, both generously incorporating this citrus fruit. For lunch, indulge in the seasonal set meal with various side dishes (starting from 5,500 yen), while for dinner, you can opt for the exquisite kaiseki course (starting from 14,520 yen). Revel in the abundance of yuzu-inspired dishes, tailored to the Japanese seasonal calendar, at your leisure.

With English-speaking staff available almost all the time and hotel pamphlets in English, along with Wi-Fi accessible throughout the property, your stay is made convenient. Guests from abroad have also shared their impressions, describing the transition from the bustling streets to the tranquil realm of the inn as if stepping into a magical dimension. They praised the top-quality ingredients served during dinner and the satisfyingly lavish breakfast.

All rooms are designed for 1-2 guests, totaling 8 rooms (accommodations for 3 or more guests are available upon request). Each room welcomes guests with a touch of traditional charm, featuring antique chests of drawers, subtle wildflowers, and decor that honors the changing seasons. From the corridors of the rooms, guests can catch glimpses of the inner courtyard where yuzu trees and maple trees provide a serene atmosphere. Additionally, in the baths adorned with green yuzu in summer and yellow yuzu in winter, guests can find relaxation for both body and soul.

The area around the inn boasts numerous cherry blossom spots, but one that can be easily visited with a casual stroll is Maruyama Park. Located in the heart of Gion, it is Kyoto's oldest park, featuring a circuit-style garden with scattered teahouses and traditional restaurants. It's famed for its bewitching cherry blossoms, including the majestic weeping cherry tree known as the "Gion Night Sakura," which the Japanese poet Yosano Akiko immortalized in her verses. With approximately 690 diverse cherry trees, the park transforms into a sea of pink during cherry blossom season, typically from mid-March, and is illuminated at night.

Located an 8-minute walk from Higashiyama Station, Chion-in Temple stands as the head temple of the Jodo sect, surrounded by numerous cultural treasures. Situated at the entrance to the temple's grand Sanmon gate, Japan's largest double gate, Chion-in Wajun Kaikan provides a popular lodging option serving as a hub for exploring renowned sites such as the picturesque Keage Incline. Offering morning prayers, guided tours of the temple grounds, and opportunities for sutra transcription, this inn provides unique cultural experiences characteristic of historical temple lodgings, attracting a diverse array of international guests.

Each room, accommodating 1 to 3 guests, offers a total of 50 rooms. With furnishings crafted from natural materials like American cherry hardwood and horsehide leather, along with premium down comforters, the rooms provide a comfortable yet simplistic atmosphere. Equipped with modern amenities such as a bathroom with a washlet toilet, TV, individual air conditioning, and humidifier, guests can also relax in yukata robes provided during their stay.

The separate men's and women's communal baths on the basement floor feature dressing rooms with a cozy ambiance, adorned with natural wisteria wood for a pleasant tactile experience.

Meals are served at "Kasuian," a traditional Japanese restaurant where guests can enjoy a wide variety of steamed dishes. Upon reservation, guests can also order Shojin cuisine, which follows Buddhist precepts and does not include meat or fish. For dinner, guests can indulge in authentic kaiseki cuisine featuring seasonal ingredients unique to Kyoto, such as bamboo shoots in spring, pike conger in summer, and crab or cod in winter. Colorful breakfast trays incorporating a variety of ingredients are served for the morning meal.

English-speaking staff are available on-site, and Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property.

Foreign guests have shared positive feedback, expressing enjoyment of the delicious Shojin cuisine for breakfast and highlighting the friendly staff and cleanliness of the establishment. Some also appreciated the opportunity to participate in the morning Buddhist services, describing it as a spiritual and special experience.

If you're looking for a unique cherry blossom viewing experience, don't miss the Keage Incline. While it's a bit of a walk from the inn, about 20 minutes on foot, you can enjoy strolling through the streets of Kyoto at a leisurely pace. This inclined railway, with a length of 582 meters, was once the world's longest when it was built, and until 1948, boats ascended and descended the steep slope with a height difference of about 36 meters. Nowadays, approximately 90 cherry blossom trees bloom along both sides of the railway tracks, creating a picturesque scene as if the blossoms were cascading down onto the tracks. The view from the top is also breathtaking, so be sure to take a walk and experience it for yourself.

In the vicinity of the famous Kyoto landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kiyomizu Temple, stands The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu. With a history spanning over 90 years, this lodging seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, repurposing the beloved former Kiyomizu Elementary School as its foundation.

The hotel boasts a spacious site of approximately 7,000 square meters, accommodating just 48 rooms, which creates an ambiance where guests can immerse themselves in tranquility. From the rooms, guests can enjoy views of distant mountains, the Yasaka Pagoda, also known as the Five-Storied Pagoda of Hokan-ji Temple, and traditional machiya townhouses, allowing them to savor the cityscape of the ancient capital while in a luxurious setting.

In the Guest Lounge, adorned with large windows offering refreshing green vistas, guests can indulge in light snacks, sweets, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages exclusively available to hotel guests. While relaxing and taking in the views of the city, guests can also enjoy the changing scenery of dusk or the illuminated streets of Kyoto.

The restaurant, "Restaurant Library The Hotel Seiryu," located within the hotel, has been transformed into a space resembling a library, reminiscent of the former school auditorium. With a collection of over 1,100 books adorning the shelves, guests can enjoy not only meals but also indulge in reading during their visit.

Moreover, the hotel provides staff proficient in English and Chinese for assistance, and Wi-Fi is available throughout the entire property.

Furthermore, from March 20th to April 6th in 2024, there will be a special plan available for admiring Kyoto's cherry blossom scenery (starting from 105,000 yen per room for one person, sales begin on January 16th). Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, you can enjoy a serene atmosphere in the tranquil rooms with a "Private Terrace" overlooking the cherry blossoms, Yasaka Pagoda, and the streets of Kiyomizu. You can have champagne, hors d'oeuvres, and a fruit platter delivered to you at your preferred time, ensuring an elegant and undisturbed experience.

Nearby, Kiyomizu Temple is one of Kyoto's renowned cherry blossom spots. You can enjoy cherry blossoms against the backdrop of landmarks like the three-story pagoda, the Kiyomizu Stage, and the Niomon Gate within the temple grounds. Typically, from mid to late March, they also illuminate the cherry blossoms, making an evening stroll highly recommended.

Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto is a small luxury hotel located just a 2-minute walk from the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nijo Castle. Embracing the essence of Zen deeply rooted in Japan, the hotel features a minimalist lobby and serene garden, emphasizing simplicity and elegance. While prioritizing functionality, the guest rooms incorporate elements of Kyoto's heritage and Japanese aesthetics, utilizing materials like plaster walls, tatami flooring, and wood, blended with contemporary design.

With only 25 premium rooms available, guests can experience the unique charm of Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto. Some rooms offer stunning views of Nijo Castle, while others provide a tranquil setting amidst bamboo groves, showcasing the hotel's exceptional location.

Additionally, the hotel has English-speaking staff available and Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the premises.

At the hotel's restaurant, "Shinzo -Singular-," guests can savor dishes that blend French cuisine with carefully selected ingredients sourced from Kyoto and various regions across Japan. With the concept of "Japanese spirit meets Western talent," the lunch and dinner menus offer a fusion of French cuisine with Japanese elements, featuring indulgent ingredients such as Omi beef, Kyoto-raised chicken, Kujo green onions, and sweet sea bream.

Located to the south of the hotel, Nijo Castle boasts around 300 cherry trees of 50 different varieties, making it a perfect spot for cherry blossom viewing while strolling around. Additionally, on March 27th and 28th, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, they offer the "Okazaki Sakura Corridor Boat Cruise Accommodation Plan" (starting from 171,100 yen for double occupancy). Guests can board a private boat called "Tokishifune" and leisurely cruise through the beautiful Okazaki area lined with cherry blossoms. After the approximately 25-minute boat ride, guests can enjoy a stroll along the famous "Keage Incline," renowned for its cherry blossoms.

Situated in Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, the esteemed Nishi Hongan-ji Temple holds a significant place in the hearts of locals and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled close to this historic temple, the Dusit Thani Kyoto opened its doors in September 2023.

Boasting a convenient location just a 12-minute stroll from Kyoto Station, the hotel offers easy access to shopping and sightseeing. With an exterior seamlessly blending into Kyoto's picturesque streets and the renowned hospitality of Dusit originating from Thailand, guests can expect a truly distinctive experience at the Dusit Thani Kyoto.

The hotel boasts 147 rooms, each offering a different view. From the "Premier Garden" overlooking the garden to the "Deluxe" and "Premier" rooms offering glimpses of Kyoto's streets, the scenery varies from room to room. Designed by Thai designers, the rooms are simple yet sophisticated, ensuring a relaxing stay.

Guests can indulge in relaxation at the Devarana Spa, where both the mind and body can refresh, or enjoy the indoor pool and state-of-the-art fitness equipment at the Pool & Fitness facility. With these amenities, guests can experience a resort-like atmosphere while staying in Kyoto. Wi-Fi is also available throughout the property.

The restaurants include "Ayatana," a Thai cuisine signature restaurant facing the courtyard, "Den Kyoto," a bar known for its unique cocktails, and "Momiji," a teppanyaki restaurant. Additionally, the lobby lounge "The Gallery" offers afternoon tea incorporating Kyoto's tea culture, while the "Tea Salon" on the first floor allows guests to enjoy Japanese teas like matcha and sencha, along with a selection of sweets and savory items.

During the cherry blossom season, the hotel's vicinity offers perfect opportunities for cherry blossom viewing, starting with Nishi Honganji Temple, where the Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms typically reach their peak around mid-March. Additionally, Umekoji Park, where you can enjoy seasonal flowers like cherry blossoms and plum blossoms, is also within walking distance, making it ideal for hanami outings.

FUFU Kyoto is a tranquil resort hotel located about a 7-minute walk from Keage Station in Kyoto. Situated near the Nanzenji Temple, designated as a national historic site, it offers a serene retreat amidst its surroundings. With a Japanese garden created by drawing water from the Lake Biwa Canal and a concierge desk to assist guests in exploring Kyoto's culture, it's an ideal choice for those seeking to immerse themselves in Kyoto's rich heritage.

Surrounded by historical landmarks such as the Lake Biwa Canal, which is essential for Kyoto's water supply, the renowned cherry blossom spot known as the Keage Incline, and the prestigious Nanzenji Temple, known as one of Japan's highest-ranked Zen temples, there are plenty of historic sites to explore nearby.

The hotel features 40 rooms divided into six types. Guests can enjoy luxurious Japanese-style accommodations with traditional flower arrangements, iron kettles for hot water, and indoor baths where they can soak in natural hot springs while indoors. Wi-Fi is available in both the lobby and guest rooms for added convenience.

At "Kyoyasai and Sumibi-yaki An-to," which uses ingredients sourced from Kyoto, you can enjoy charcoal-grilled dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients alongside Kyoto vegetables. For breakfast, you can indulge in the visually appealing "Fukuju Zen" and "An-to Soup," made with the hotel's special miso, served either at the restaurant or in your room.

Furthermore, the bar, where you can spend long evenings, offers a unique atmosphere utilizing the "teahouse" in the Japanese garden. You can enjoy the view of pine trees and autumn leaves up close in the garden while indulging in traditional architecture and dance performances with a drink in hand.

The surrounding area offers plenty of spots within walking distance where you can enjoy cherry blossoms. You can explore places like the scenic Lake Biwa Canal with cherry blossoms blooming along both banks, the spectacular Keage Incline lined with around 100 cherry trees along the railway tracks, and the Heian Shrine featuring vermilion torii gates and double-flowered weeping cherry blossoms. It might be worth visiting these cherry blossom spots during your stay.

We've carefully selected top-notch hotels that offer not only proximity to cherry blossom spots but also excellence in facilities and heartfelt hospitality. Why not indulge in a luxurious Kyoto stay surrounded by graceful cherry blossoms and top-notch service?

(The information in this article is accurate as of February 2024. Please verify the latest information on official websites or other reliable sources.)