Featured Story  ·  Lifestyle

Tranquillity Reinterpreted

March 22, 2022

WITH A SINCERE RESPECT FOR KYOTO’S HISTORY AND TRADITION, ROKU KYOTO IS AN AUTHENTIC EXTENSION OF THE CITY’S RICH CULTURE.

Known as the cultural capital of Japan, Kyoto is a breath-taking city where historic landmarks merge with the surrounding nature to create an experience you can’t find anywhere else. If you’re looking to have a taste of Japan’s rich traditions, Kyoto is the ideal destination, and this destination happens to be welcoming a new LXR Hotels & Resorts location – ROKU KYOTO. ROKU KYOTO is the first LXR property under the Hilton brand in Asia Pacific, and it seems that the brand was determined to make a splash with this debut. They have engaged with BLINK Design Group – who is also making its first mark in Japan through this project – to create a wonderfully authentic experience with this new property. 

Despite this being their first project in the region, LXR Hotels & Resorts as well as BLINK Design Group understood the importance of respecting Kyoto’s rich heritage and culture with ROKU KYOTO. Namely, great inspiration was taken from the idyllic Japanese gardens, historic architecture and authentic tea houses the region is known for. According to Clint Nagata, the Founder and Creative Partner of BLINK Design Group, great care was taken to “edit and distil the essence of Kyoto and the Japanese culture while staying true to the DNA of the hotel brand.” ROKU KYOTO draws from cherished values in Japanese culture such as simplicity and quality to offer a tranquil and intimate sanctuary that can soothe the hearts of guests, even if they are entering a foreign territory.

The interiors of ROKU KYOTO also incorporate specific nuances to Japanese traditions such as that of the shrine. The use of earth tones helps to create a calm atmosphere. “Elements integral to the Japanese culture are also seamless infused into the resort’s design,” Nagata says. “It was important for us to integrate the beautiful natural surroundings with contemporary design elements to emulate the feeling of a modern-day sanctuary.” A space that exemplifies this blend between nature and contemporary sensibilities is the outdoor corridors that link the whole resort together. While it is perfectly functional, the added outdoor aspect gives guests the ability to appreciate the natural landscape that surrounds them as they move through the property.

You may also notice elements in ROKU KYOTO that resembles the machiya of Kyoto. Machiya refers to the traditional townhouses from the Edo period in Japan that extended from 1603 to 1867. These townhouses served as residences and workspaces for the city’s growing merchant class, and are known for the lavish use of elaborate and delicate materials. Its front features a distinctive style of wooden latticework, also known as kōshi. The team at BLINK uses this latticework in the guestrooms by using washi paper-framed windows that pay homage to the wooden lattice design.

Guests can further discover the intricacies of Japanese culture through the unique materials used throughout this property, such as the lacquerware at the entrance, the bamboo art in the restaurant dining pavilion, the ceramic artefacts in the Spa suites, and the karakami traditional crafted paper wall coverings.

ROKU KYOTO has 114 carefully curated rooms that overlook the lush, verdant trees and mountainous terrain enveloping the property. Amenities at this location include an exquisite onsen-thermal pool – an essential part  of the Japanese resort experience. Guests are also offered spa treatments based on the concept of Kyoto elements while borrowing techniques from Ayurvedic philosophy. There is also a 24-hour fully equipped onsite fitness room for those who enjoy getting a workout in during their vacation. According to Clint Nagata, the perfect zen can be experienced by booking the Spa Access Rooms and Suites, which are equipped with a full terrace  and natural hot spring water piped directly to your room.

As expected of a LXR Hotels & Resorts location, culinary indulgence is of course highlighted at ROKU KYOTO for food lovers. There is a diverse set of dining venues, including the pavilion restaurant which features three distinct zones where you can savour all-day dining with the finest locallysourced ingredients. At the live kitchen counter, guests can watch the head chef cook up signature dishes. There is also the café and bar spot along the Tenjin River for those looking for an outdoor and scenic location. When you visit a place, you want to learn all about its culture and immerse yourself in it. ROKU KYOTO provides you that opportunity while still lending a familiar warmth and comfort when you need to rest.

For more information please visit www.lxrhotels3.hilton.com