Located in the heart of Kyoto, HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO, a Forbes Travel Guide 5 Star Hotel, is a unique destination evocative of the cultural capital of Japan. This idyllic sanctuary honors ancient Japanese traditions, celebrating the legacy and spirit of Kyoto.

Adjacent to the legendary Nijo-jo Castle, the enchanting hotel is built on a 250-year-old historic site that was once the home of the executive branch of the Mitsui Family. The hotel features 160 ultra-luxurious rooms and suites, a lush 14,000 square foot courtyard, two restaurants, and a bar/lounge.

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Guests are welcomed by a luxurious ambiance of refined sophistication. HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO's entrance, lobby and lounge, courtyard water table, expansive garden, and buildings are all integrated into a space that embodies the spirit of “teioku ichinyo,” an ancient Japanese design concept where garden and buildings are balanced and in beautiful harmony.

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The Spa at HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO utilizes natural onsen hot spring water drawn from under the hotel property, offering the ultimate in healing and relaxation in a tranquil space. Visitors can enjoy both private onsen suites and incredible thermal springs with overhead rainshowers. We interviewed Spa Manager Mayumi Kondo about everything you need to know to get the most out of a visit to this incredible Kyoto spa.

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Why You’ll Love It:

We have one of the only hotels in the city center with its own private natural hot spring, directly sourced from Kyoto Nijo Onsen.

The private onsens and Thermal Spring provide wonderful health benefits, including the relief of cuts, improved peripheral blood circulation, alleviation of depression, and enhancement of dry skin.

 A visit to our spa promises guests not just relaxation, but also an invitation to partake in a Japanese tradition dating back 1,300 years.

Key Features:

The main focal point of our SPA is the expansive 10,764 square foot thermal spring, an onsen where mineral-rich water emerges from a depth of 3,281 feet. Enclosed by stone walls and complemented by architectural slabs, the thermal spring offers hot tubs equipped with jets and a soothing rainfall feature. This is open to both men and women and swimsuits are required. There are also two private onsens, as well as four spa treatment rooms.

Central to our spa is the concept of an "Oasis of Serenity," inviting guests to escape their daily routines and immerse themselves in the calming embrace of spring water.

The space is carefully orchestrated to harmonize time, sound, light, fragrance, and water, providing a multisensory experience that encourages complete surrender.

Tattoo Policy: Tattoos are allowed in all areas.

Spa Snacks: Guests can request breakfast or afternoon tea service while enjoying the private onsen experience.

Unique Treatment: SPA Indulgence is our fully integrated wellness program that combines the healing powers of natural hot springs with indulgent spa treatments and a synchronized sleep and meal program.

Private Onsen Experience: For guests seeking an immersive wellness experience, our Onsen Suite offers a serene retreat. This expansive suite, adorned with a traditional Japanese aesthetic, includes separate living and bedroom areas.

The highlight is the outdoor bath, providing a tranquil view of a meticulously curated Japanese tsubo-niwa garden sorrounded by stone lanterns and lush greenery.

Wellness Offerings: HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO offers guests exclusive access to unique cultural experiences, including a seated-style tea ceremony hosted by a hotel Ambassador at the hotel's CHAKYO Tea Ceremony space, in-house art tours, and wellness breathing exercises at SHIKI-NO-MA.

 We also have some exciting programming in the works for this year – stay tuned!

Featured Products: HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO is the first location in Japan to feature ALAENA products, the groundbreaking organic cosmeceutical brand developed by a family of dermatologists.

We also have specials throughout the year. This winter (2024), we are proud to offer a new treatment menu featuring MIKIMOTO COSMETICS, a renowned skincare brand known for infusing the highest quality products with rare pearl ingredients. Pearls have been revered in Japanese culture since ancient times. They symbolize beauty, nobility and protection from evil spirits – and in a cosmetic form, they deliver a striking translucent radiance.

 For more information, follow @hotel_the_mitsui_kyoto on Instagram or visit hotelthemitsui.com.

[Images courtesy of HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO]

A University of Michigan graduate, Lizzy Sherman is an award-winning writer/editor. Her work has appeared in publications including Beauty Launchpad, Nailpro, DAYSPA, CNET, Entertainment Tonight, and more. She has been a featured guest speaker at Cal State University Northridge, Digital LA, and The National Association of Audience Marketing Professionals. When she's not writing, Lizzy enjoys yoga and playing guitar. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @zillizy, @zillizy16