Banyan Tree Brand Officially Enters Japanese Market with Dazzling Debut in Central Kyoto
[Japan, June 28, 2024] As a globally leading independent hotel group, Banyan Group is pleased to announce that Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto will officially open in the third quarter of 2024, marking the first entry of the Banyan Tree brand into Japan. The hotel is located in the historic Higashiyama district of Kyoto, with 52 guest rooms and suites, and features the iconic Banyan Tree Spa along with two distinctive dining facilities.
Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto is situated in the prestigious Higashiyama district, adjacent to famous landmarks such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Kōdai-ji Temple. Built on the site of the former esteemed Ryōzen Hotel, it continues the tradition and boasts a rare natural hot spring in Kyoto city—Higashiyama Onsen—making it a sought-after resort destination for travelers. The redevelopment reaffirms Banyan Group's commitment to cultural heritage preservation and sustainable development.
At the foot of Higashiyama, the solemn Ryōzen area has long served as the boundary between Kyoto city and the mountain forests. Extending from Higashi Hongan-ji Temple in the north to Toribeno in the south, this area is locally regarded as the border between the present world and the afterlife, imbued with mystical significance. Noh, a traditional Japanese performing art with a 650-year history dating back to the Muromachi period, was designated an UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2008. The Noh stage consists of the main stage (honbutai), the mirror room (kagami no ma), and the bridge passage (hashigakari), where the main stage and mirror room represent two worlds, and the bridge passage serves as the link between them.
Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto features a unique Noh stage, highlighting its distinctive geographical position at the boundary of nature. Designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, the stage's roof eaves embody both a timeless presence and a momentary essence, blending seamlessly with the natural environment of Higashiyama. As the only hotel in Kyoto city with a Noh stage, traditional Noh performances, contemporary art shows, and concerts will be held here, offering guests an unforgettable cultural experience.
The 52 guest rooms and suites at Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto are designed by Yukio Hashimoto, inspired by the essence of Japanese aesthetics—'yūgen'—and a famous phrase from the classic Noh treatise 'Fushikaden,' which translates into Chinese as 'Hidden beauty is true beauty' (Hisureba Hana), meaning that beauty lies in its mystery and what is not fully revealed. This concept emphasizes that true beauty is found in the hidden and incomplete. As guests step into the rooms, they will be captivated by unexpected elements that reveal the unique charm of concealed beauty. Each room features traditional Japanese materials such as spacious hinoki cypress bathtubs, tatami mats, natural wood elements, and gold leaf decorations, creating a serene sanctuary that engages all five senses.
Sustainability Commitment
Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto's three distinctive courtyards and lush bamboo groves allow it to blend seamlessly into the surrounding natural forest, offering a unique scenic beauty. During construction, the hotel restored the ancient stone walls of the Ryōzen Hotel, cultivated moss, and preserved representative trees and bamboo groves, reflecting the group's long-term commitment to sustainability.
The award-winning Banyan Tree Spa will also offer authentic Kyoto-style treatments, providing guests with a unique journey of exploration and relaxation. In addition, guests can experience the rich traditional culinary culture of Kyoto through unique gastronomic journeys at the two dining facilities. Guests staying from July 26, 2024, can enjoy the hotel's special 'Opening Offer.'
About Banyan Group
Banyan Group ('Banyan Tree Holdings Limited' or 'Group,' SGX Stock Code: B58) is a globally leading independent hotel group, committed to pioneering design-driven travel experiences and responsible travel. The group operates over 80 hotels and resorts, more than 60 spas and retail galleries, and 14 residences across more than 20 countries. Its portfolio includes 12 distinctive brands, including the flagship Banyan Tree, all part of the group's loyalty program 'Yu Banyan.' Banyan Group consistently upholds its core value of 'Embracing the Environment, Caring for Society' through the Banyan Tree Global Foundation and Banyan Tree Management Academy, and is dedicated to becoming a practitioner of sustainable travel while continuously enhancing guest experiences.
