Unparalleled Luxury Experience: My Stay at The Mitsui Kyoto, a Forbes 5-Star Hotel in Japan

Hello! I’m Taka.

In this post, I’ll be sharing my experience at HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO, a luxury collection hotel & spa located in front of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nijo Castle, in Kyoto.

From an elegant afternoon tea with views of a serene Japanese garden to dining at the Italian restaurant FORNI and indulging in the thermal spring, every moment felt like a dream. For honeymoons, anniversaries, or any special occasion, it promises unforgettable memories.

I hope this article inspires those planning a special trip to Kyoto or Japan!

Please note that this information is from a stay a few years ago, so I recommend checking the official website for the latest updates.

Review Site	Hotel Rating
Rakuten Travel One of the largest online travel booking platforms in Japan	LUXURY SELECTION, Highest Quality (Top 0.3%)
Forbes Travel Guide (2024)	★★★★★
MICHELIN Guide (2024)	Three MICHELIN Keys, An extraordinary stay
Readers’ Choice Awards (2024)	Ranking #8 The eight-ranked hotel in the top hotel category in Japan.

HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Spa, opened in 2020 as the fourth Luxury Collection property in Japan.

The hotel consistently receives top-tier ratings across various travel platforms and is one of the few properties awarded the highest recognition by both the Forbes Travel Guide and the Michelin Guide, known for their global rankings of premier hotels and restaurants.

Additionally, it earned a prestigious spot in Condé Nast Traveler‘s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards, ranking 8th in the “Top Hotels in Japan” category, further cementing its reputation as a world-class destination.

日本の美しさと－EMBRACING JAPAN’S BEAUTY－ ｜HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO

Cultural Heritage Entrance: “Kajii-no-Miya Gate”

This time, I visited HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO by car and experienced their valet parking service for the first time. It was incredibly convenient, with staff handling the parking and retrieval of the vehicle for you.

The iconic “Kajii-no-Miya Gate,” a symbolic feature of HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO, boasts a history spanning over 300 years.

This precious structure is also registered as a Tangible Cultural Property, offering a glimpse into Kyoto’s rich heritage.

As night falls, the “Kajii-no-Miya Gate” is beautifully illuminated, creating an even more majestic atmosphere.

As you pass through the “Kajii-no-Miya Gate,” you are greeted by an approach surrounded by traditional Kyoto plantings such as bamboo and pine. Despite only opening in 2020, this luxurious hotel exudes a rich and elegant atmosphere.

“Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto” beautifully merges traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern design, offering a unique charm that is unparalleled.

Checking In at the Picture-Perfect Lobby Lounge

As I entered the hotel, I was immediately drawn to the elegantly crafted wooden emblem featuring the hotel logo.

Its luxurious design exuded sophistication and refinement, perfectly setting the tone for the upscale experience that awaited me at “Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto.”

Thanks to the attentive service of the staff, I was escorted into the stunning “Lobby Lounge,” which resembles a work of art.

The lounge features expansive glass walls, allowing for an unobstructed view of the approximately 1,300 square meter circular garden.

This beautiful setting is designed to immerse guests in the serene beauty of nature while enjoying a selection of exquisite refreshments.

Upon arrival, the staff warmly welcomed me with a cup of tea and traditional Japanese sweets, ensuring a smooth and courteous check-in process.

Although the standard check-in time is at 3 PM, I arrived at 2 PM as I had a reservation for afternoon tea at 2:30 PM. Fortunately, as a Marriott Bonvoy member, I was able to enjoy an early check-in.

While I couldn’t secure an upgrade for my room, I was granted a late check-out until 2 PM, allowing me to maximize my precious time at “Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto!”

The Allure of the Deluxe Room

During my visit, I utilized Marriott Bonvoy points to stay in the “Deluxe Room,” where the essence of traditional Japanese aesthetics was beautifully integrated throughout the space.

The room key card features a design inspired by the sliding doors painted by renowned Japanese artist Takafumi Asakura, depicting the beauty of the four seasons.

The indoor slippers provided were exceptionally soft and plush, ranking among the most comfortable I have ever experienced in any hotel or ryokan.

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Additionally, the hotel’s original bathrobe from the French brand “Garnier Thiebaut” was a delight to wear—crafted from a lightweight, soft material that felt wonderfully comfortable against the skin.

It’s worth noting that you can move comfortably to the “Thermal Spring Spa” while still wearing the slippers or bathrobe, adding to the convenience of your stay.

The bathroom was spacious, featuring double sinks for added comfort.

The elegant and refined monochrome color scheme created an atmosphere of luxury, making the room a perfect retreat after a day of exploring Kyoto.

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At the center of the double sinks, the amenity box showcases the hotel logo, elegantly presenting a collection of high-quality items, including a premium hairbrush and razor.

Under the sink, you’ll find an array of five-star quality towels that boast exceptional absorbency and softness.

These towels, crafted from Imabari Supima cotton, offer a thick yet fluffy texture that feels delightful against the skin.

Adding to the luxurious experience, Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto provides the Holistic Cure Dryer, a beauty tool favored by professionals in the industry.

This high-end hairdryer ensures a comfortable and efficient hair care experience, a hallmark of five-star hotels.

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The spacious, stone-clad bathroom features original bath amenities crafted by a Japanese perfumer specifically for Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto.

The shower pressure is adjustable in three levels, allowing you to enjoy a revitalizing sensation from the generous rainfall showerhead.

The rain shower, sourced from the esteemed luxury bathroom manufacturer AXOR, combines beautiful design with intuitive usability, enhancing the overall bathing experience.

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The artificial marble bathtub is impressively spacious, comfortably accommodating two adults.

To enhance your bathing experience, the room is equipped with luxurious items such as a loofah sponge, bath salts, and a bath pillow, allowing you to fully indulge in a high-quality soak.

The restroom features exquisite lighting that creates a clean and inviting atmosphere.

It is fitted with a state-of-the-art tankless toilet, which automatically opens and closes its lid for a seamless and comfortable experience.

Stepping into the main room of the Deluxe Room, you’re welcomed by a space that beautifully embodies the concept of a “modern interpretation of a tea room.”

The room strikes a perfect balance between traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary design, creating a stylish and sophisticated atmosphere.

The king-size mattress, an original creation by Simmons exclusively for HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO, ensures a restful sleep experience.

Since sleep occupies a significant portion of your hotel stay, the emphasis on a luxurious sleeping experience adds immense value to your overall enjoyment.

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The bedside lighting, crafted with a Japanese aesthetic, casts a soft, warm glow that creates a tranquil ambiance. Alongside convenient power outlets and USB ports, you’ll also find a switch for controlling the curtains, ensuring everything is within easy reach.

Equipped with high-performance BOSE speakers, the room offers excellent sound quality while maintaining impressive sound insulation, allowing for a peaceful retreat.

A 55-inch television, elegantly encased in a wooden frame, is mounted on the wall, showcasing the hotel’s commitment to design and spatial beauty. This sophisticated touch complements the overall aesthetic of the room.

Guests can conveniently check the current occupancy levels of the breakfast venue, FORNI, and the Thermal Spring Spa directly on the screen, allowing for effortless planning of their day.

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The television remote was neatly stored in a gray case, adding to the room’s thoughtful design.

Even the hotel guide booklet featured wood accents, harmonizing perfectly with the overall aesthetic, showcasing the hotel’s dedication to quality in every detail.

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Next, I explored the mini-bar, which featured an elegant yet simple design, highlighted by a striking moss bonsai. The attention to detail was evident with items like an iron teapot and a Nespresso machine, offering guests a refined experience.

The countertop of the mini-bar has a pull-out first tier, making it easy to prepare tea or coffee. The mineral water provided is from the Kyoto-based sake brewery Kizakura, allowing guests to enjoy the pure waters of the region.

Interestingly, the Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Arashiyama, another luxurious property in Kyoto, the mineral water is sourced from a different local sake brewery, Gekkeikan.

This attention to regional details adds a unique touch to each stay, reflecting the rich culture and heritage of Kyoto.

The mini-bar at HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO truly blends style and functionality, ensuring a premium experience even when enjoying a simple cup of tea or coffee.

Inside the elegant wooden box, you’ll find premium green tea and genmaicha (roasted rice tea) from the renowned Japanese tea shop Itoh Kyuemon Chaho.

The packaging features charming illustrations from the famous Choju-Giga, adding a touch of traditional Japanese artistry to the experience. This thoughtful selection further elevates the mini-bar, offering guests a chance to savor Kyoto’s finest teas.

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The next drawer revealed a well-stocked mini-bar, complete with premium glassware, alcoholic beverages, and a selection of snacks.

The glassware, provided by the world-renowned wine glass manufacturer RIEDEL, gleamed with a polished shine, perfect for enjoying a refined drink.

As for the tea selection, guests are treated to luxurious blends from TWG, including English Breakfast and the indulgent Vanilla Bourbon. This attention to detail ensures an exceptional experience, whether you’re in the mood for a fine drink or a comforting cup of tea.

The lower drawer housed a well-stocked refrigerator filled with carefully selected beverages.

While these are available for an additional charge, the variety is impressive, featuring everything from champagne and beer to locally sourced sparkling water from Kyoto.

This diverse lineup ensures that there’s something for every taste, further enhancing the luxurious in-room experience.

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On the table, in celebration of the moon-viewing season, were delightful welcome sweets: “rabbit-patterned dumplings” and rice crackers featuring “susuki grass and a full moon” design.

These treats were crafted by the renowned wagashi shop “Nijo Wakasa-ya,” located near “HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO.”

The refined sweetness of the sweets complemented the tea beautifully, creating a perfect pairing for a traditional Japanese experience.

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Next to the tea sweets was a red wooden box called a “Fubako,” containing postcards and a pencil.

Even the standard room, the Deluxe Room, at “HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO” offers an astonishing level of quality and attention to detail.

Afternoon Tea Experience Featuring TWG

Upon arriving at THE GARDEN BAR, I was immediately captivated by the stunning Japanese garden that stretched before me. This serene setting serves as the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of indulgence.

As I settled into my seat, I was eager to experience the luxurious afternoon tea unique to HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO, renowned for its exquisite offerings.

The afternoon tea is not just a meal; it’s an immersive experience that beautifully showcases Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage through traditional crafts. Each detail, from the elegantly designed tea ware to the carefully curated selection of treats, reflects the hotel’s commitment to quality and authenticity.

As I savored each bite, I could feel the harmony between the delicate flavors and the tranquil atmosphere of the garden. This setting not only enhances the flavors of the tea and pastries but also allows for a moment of reflection and appreciation of Kyoto’s natural beauty.

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At THE GARDEN BAR, I enjoyed an exceptional afternoon tea inspired by the “Mid-Autumn Festival”. The visually stunning sweets captured the essence of autumn, creating a feast for the senses.

I savored high-quality ”gyokuro” , known for its rich umami flavor, alongside exquisite blends from TWG. The luxurious teas paired beautifully with the festival-themed desserts, making for an unforgettable tasting experience.

This delightful afternoon celebration blended exquisite flavors with cultural significance, all within the serene setting of the Japanese garden.

After enjoying a luxurious afternoon tea, I took a leisurely stroll through the Japanese garden.

The meticulously maintained landscape was picturesque at every turn, creating a captivating atmosphere that truly mesmerized anyone who visited.

Exquisite Library Experience

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Stepping into the “Library” located in a corner of the lobby, you’ll find beautifully displayed books focusing on themes like “The History of the Mitsui Family” and “Traditional Crafts.”

The library’s decor is designed to reflect the elegance and heritage of the hotel, making it a serene spot for guests to explore.

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In addition to the round tables, a long wooden table adds a rustic touch to the space, while an iMac is conveniently placed at the back, its sleek design harmonizing perfectly with the ambiance of the library.

After browsing through a few books, I returned to my “Deluxe Room” to relax and unwind before dinner.

The peaceful atmosphere of the room provided the perfect setting to enjoy a moment of calm and reflection, enhancing the overall luxury of my stay at “HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO.”

Savor Authentic Italian Cuisine at FORNI

We had the option to choose between “Tsuki,” which offers teppanyaki cuisine based on French and Japanese dishes, and “FORNI,” which serves authentic Italian cuisine. After much deliberation until the day before, we ultimately decided on Italian.

The approach to “FORNI” felt completely different from when we passed through on our way to enjoy afternoon tea. This corridor was inspired by the iconic “Senbon Torii” (thousand torii gates) of Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto, creating a unique ambiance.

The interior of the restaurant is dimly lit, creating a moody atmosphere that exudes an elegant and sophisticated vibe typical of high-end dining establishments.

We opted for a “course meal with wine pairing.” However, instead of wine, we enjoyed pairing the dishes with mocktails (non-alcoholic cocktails).

The course offered a selection format, allowing us to choose from many options based on our preferences, adding a fun element akin to ordering à la carte.

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The first drink served was a “non-alcoholic sparkling rosé.” For the appetizer, we enjoyed “crackers” with the fragrant aroma of rosemary, accompanied by “amuse-bouche.”

The hotel’s homemade focaccia had a delightful chewy texture, and we were able to request a second helping. The “olive oil” had a fresh fruity flavor with just the right amount of spiciness and bitterness, making it a perfect match for the focaccia.

For the second pairing, we had a “mocktail made with peach tea and oolong,” and the appetizer was “cotoletta di manzo with Taleggio cheese and passion fruit sauce salad.”

The flavors of peach and oolong in the mocktail enhanced the deliciousness of the cutlet, allowing us to enjoy the dish even more.

The third pairing featured a “mocktail with the aroma of thyme-infused tea,” and we chose “vermicelli with squid and mussels in a yuzu-infused sauce” for our pasta.

The umami of the seafood and the distinct freshness of thyme complemented each other beautifully in this excellent pairing (mariage).

My wife enjoyed a mocktail pairing featuring “craft cola with orange and rosemary,” while we chose the restaurant’s recommended pizza: “mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, prosciutto, arugula, and Grana Padano.”

Baked in the restaurant’s oven, the thin and light Roman-style pizza was truly the “best pizza of my life.” Additionally, the craft cola, which intensified in rosemary aroma over time, was a delightful treat that allowed us to savor its changing flavors.

The fourth pairing consisted of “non-alcoholic red wine,” while the main dish was “grilled lamb loin with Inca’s awakening millefeuille.”

The staff were incredibly attentive to our afternoon tea experience, providing exceptional hospitality. They even offered, “If you enjoyed any of the teas from your afternoon tea, we can serve those as well.” The exquisite flavors of the dishes and the stunning views were undoubtedly remarkable, but it was the high level of hospitality typical of a five-star hotel that truly impressed us.

A distinctive feature of the “FORNI tiramisu” is that it is made with tea instead of the traditional espresso, which paired wonderfully with the TWG “Ceylon tea.” Not only did the pairings enhance the enjoyment of the dishes, but they also created a memorable and extraordinary experience!

The authentic “non-alcoholic wine” had a flavor entirely different from grape juice, allowing us to experience a pronounced tannic bitterness. The pairing of the mocktail with the sweetness of the lamb’s fat and the umami of the red meat was a perfect harmony!

After dinner, we took a stroll around “HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO.” The lobby lounge featured high ceilings adorned with art inspired by kimonos, captivating us every time we saw it.

We ventured outside, where the ambiance felt even more profound and extraordinary than during the day.

First-Class Turn Down Service

Upon returning to our “Deluxe Room,” we found that the turn down service had been completed, preparing the space for a restful night.

On the bed lay the hotel’s original pajamas, which were incredibly soft and comfortable!

Additionally, tea, amenities, and mineral water were all neatly replenished.

As a lovely touch, there was also a traditional Kyoto sweet and a letter awaiting us.

Throughout the day, we felt the heartfelt hospitality of “HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO” in every detail.

Four-Star Thermal Spring Spa

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The next morning, I visited the “Thermal Spring Spa” at “HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO,” where guests can enjoy hot springs sourced from 1,000 meters underground, exclusively for the hotel.

The spa’s high quality is evident, having earned four stars in the spa category of the 2024 Forbes Travel Guide.

From the room’s television, I could check the real-time availability of the spa, eliminating the need to communicate usage times and the number of guests to the staff in advance.

The same feature allowed me to monitor the breakfast venue’s crowd levels, enabling smooth schedule adjustments.

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The approach to the “Thermal Spring” felt like stepping into a different realm, enveloped in an extraordinary atmosphere! Along the way, there was a 24-hour fitness center equipped with a variety of training machines neatly arranged.

Upon arrival at the reception, I was greeted by the staff and the hotel’s original character, Byakko (White Tiger). They provided me with a bathing suit and a wristband-style locker key before heading to the Thermal Spring!

The men’s swimwear resembled shorts, while the women’s was a chic and comfortable two-piece design, both offering a sophisticated look and excellent comfort.

Upon entering the spa, I was greeted by a stunning view that matched the official website’s photos perfectly.

The water temperature was a comfortable 36–38°C, while the two jacuzzis were set at 38–40°C. In the tranquil and serene atmosphere, I enjoyed a special relaxation time. The spa offers excellent amenities, including a mist sauna, reclining chairs, bath towels, and mineral water.

Although I didn’t use it this time, there’s also a “Private Onsen” on the basement floor, where guests can enjoy “afternoon tea,” ensuring an elegant and private experience.

Elegant Breakfast with In-Room Dining

After enjoying the “Thermal Spring,” I opted for a leisurely breakfast. I had the choice of dining at “FORNI” or enjoying in-room dining, so I decided to have the “American Breakfast” delivered to my room.

To place my order, I filled out the order sheet in the room, indicating the desired items and time. I simply hung it on the outside doorknob by 2 AM on the day of the breakfast for it to be delivered.

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The staff efficiently set the table for me. I was able to choose three types of bread from the bread basket, opting for a croissant, Danish pastry, and petit bread.

The croissant, baked in the restaurant “FORNI,” had a perfect flaky texture and a delightful buttery aroma. There was an ample supply of butter, honey, and jam for the bread.

On the tray, there was a cold cut salad (with pork ham and cheddar cheese), fresh fruit, and yogurt.

For drinks, I could select one from orange juice, grapefruit juice, or the smoothie of the day, along with a choice from a wide variety of coffee and tea. I chose the smoothie of the day and TWG’s “Assam” tea.

The main egg dish at “HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO” was simply exquisite!

The “Gratin-Style Egg Benedict with Yuzu and Saikyo Miso Hollandaise Sauce” is a signature creation of the hotel, and it was a satisfying dish that made me think, “I want to return just to have this!”

It was the most expensive breakfast I’ve ever had, but experiencing the in-room dining “American Breakfast” was truly worth it. Additionally, the tablecloths, napkins, and cutlery were all of top quality.

Matcha Experience

Around 1 PM, I enjoyed a “matcha ceremony” at the nearby tea house in the lobby.

The experience lasted about 20 minutes and cost around 1,500 yen. It’s a very popular activity, so I highly recommend making a reservation in advance. Since it’s a standing ceremony, you can enjoy it casually without any prior knowledge of tea!

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The fun began with selecting the tea utensils, followed by the presentation of elegant “wagashi” (Japanese sweets) adorned with a design of susuki (Japanese pampas grass). These were from the long-established wagashi shop “Nijo Wakasa-ya,” known for their refined sweetness.

An ambassador trained in the Musha Koji Senke tea ceremony graciously demonstrated the tea-making process. I learned that a cappuccino-like froth indicates the “Ura-Senke” style, while a crescent-shaped tea pool with half-frothed matcha signifies the “Omote-Senke” style.

While there are various rituals, the ambassador created a relaxed atmosphere, encouraging everyone to enjoy the experience without worrying too much about the details. It was a wonderful space to spend a luxurious time, and I can see why it’s so popular!

Conclusion

My stay at the HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO Luxury Collection Hotel & Spa, situated in front of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nijo Castle, was nothing short of a dream. The hotel combines the beauty of traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern luxury, creating an ambiance that is both serene and opulent.

From the moment I arrived, I was enveloped in the “five-star hotel’s exceptional hospitality,” which exceeded all expectations. Every detail, from the elegant decor to the attentive staff, contributed to an utterly blissful experience.

Highlights included savoring exquisite culinary delights at FORNI, enjoying the tranquil ambiance of the Thermal Spring Spa, and indulging in the unique matcha experience.

This hotel truly epitomizes the art of Japanese hospitality, making it an ideal retreat for travelers seeking relaxation and indulgence.

I hope this article serves as a valuable resource for travel enthusiasts, those seeking extraordinary experiences, and anyone considering a trip to Kyoto. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of the city’s rich history, its stunning natural beauty, or the promise of luxury, HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing to return.

I hope this article serves as a helpful guide for those considering a special trip or an extraordinary experience in Japan!

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Thank you for reading until the end!