Over the years, this hotel quietly became our favourite place to stay in Kyoto. Back when we still travelled there regularly, it was our go-to choice whenever we wanted a slower, more composed Kyoto experience. These days we tend to base ourselves in Tokyo instead, but for anyone visiting Kyoto as a couple, this is still the hotel I recommend without hesitation.
One of its strengths is also something that might put some people off at first glance: it is a little out of the way. In Kyoto’s case, that is a blessing. The city can feel overwhelmingly crowded, especially in peak seasons, and the Ritz-Carlton’s location offers breathing room. You are close enough to the action, but far enough away to escape it when you want to.
A practical note from experience: take a taxi from Kyoto Station. We once walked the whole way with luggage in tow. It is technically walkable, but it is not comfortable, and after doing it once we never repeated the mistake. Taxis are easy, efficient, and well worth it both to and from the station.
The hotel itself strikes a very nice balance in scale. It is spacious without feeling overwhelming, polished without being cold. There is a cosy, composed atmosphere that makes it easy to settle in rather than feel like you are passing through a grand but impersonal property.
When choosing a room, I strongly recommend opting for a river view. It is worth it. Watching the river flow past, with people strolling along the riverbank, adds a quiet rhythm to your stay that fits Kyoto perfectly. It is one of those small details that makes mornings and evenings feel unhurried.
Breakfast is good, but not something I would call unforgettable. If you have experienced breakfast at the Mandarin Oriental in Tokyo, you may notice the difference. That said, the comparison is not entirely fair, and breakfast here is still perfectly enjoyable, just not the defining feature of the stay.
As for value, timing matters. Just before peak season, the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto can feel like a very justified splurge. During peak season, when prices climb sharply, the equation becomes less compelling. The hotel itself does not change, but the value proposition does.
Taken as a whole, this is a refined, calm retreat in a city that can sometimes feel anything but. If you are visiting Kyoto as a couple and want space, quiet, and a sense of retreat at the end of the day, this hotel remains an excellent choice.