IHG has just announced the expansion of its luxury wellness brand with the opening of Six Senses Kyoto. This also represents the first time the Six Senses brand sees it expanding the brand footprint into Japan.
For those not familiar with the Six Senses brand, itis a leisure-oriented luxury brand. This sets it apart from other luxury brands such as the Ritz-Carlton that have a more business focus to their operations. They typically offer resort style accommodation with a focus on wellness.
In 2019 they joined the IHG fold, and as a result some hotels (particularly the new ones) offer IGH One Rewards members some benefits.
Six Senses Kyoto
The Six Senses Kyoto is a relatively small hotel, consisting of just 81 rooms. Within those 81 rooms are a range of room styles, ranging from the superior rooms with 42 square metres of space, through to the 238 square metre three bedroom penthouse suite.
Design concept
This is how the press release describes the hotels design:
The hotel’s design draws inspiration from the Heian period (794-1185), when Heian-kyo (now Kyoto) was the capital of Japan, considered by many the golden age of art and culture that gave birth to “Miyabi” (courtly elegance) concept. This heritage is reflected in the hotel’s modern interpretation, incorporating elements of traditional arts to create a unique and elegant ambiance. The lobby artwork sets the tone with a folding screen featuring 504 hand-crafted Kyoto-made Rakuyaki tiles. These symbolize the silhouette of the sacred Mount Kurama, one of the legendary settings of the Tale of Genji and the birthplace of Reiki healing. Opposite the folding screen is a whimsical art piece which is a modern take on “Chōjū-giga” (Scrolls of Frolicking Animals), believed to be the very first manga (Japanese graphic novels) in the nation’s history.
The contrasting artwork sets the stage for the hotel’s blend of history, artistry, playfulness and emotional hospitality. The hotel’s biophilic design, evident in the usage of wood and natural materials, along with meandering paths through inner Japanese gardens, further connects guests with nature.
The rooms
The rooms follow the same design pattern as the rest of the hotel. As such, guests will find a mix of modern and historic Japanese design and architecture.
The bedrooms feature a number of Six Sense touches. These include Sleep With Six Senses, promoting peaceful slumber through bespoke organic mattresses, temperature regulating pillows, duvets, and organic cotton sheets.
There are a range of views available from the hotel rooms. For example, you could have a view of the central courtyard, or the gardens of the neighboring Toyokuni Shrine.
Food and Beverage
On the culinary front, the food and beverage offering at Six Senses Kyoto is designed to “take guests on a journey through the ancient Japanese calendar,”. Based on the information they have shared, this means Sekki, the all-day dining restaurant, “features hyper-seasonal weekly menus and drinks inspired by Japan’s 24 solar terms”.
The adjacent Café Sekki boasts a selection of fresh brews, craft teas, homemade kombucha, healthy juices, sweets and pastries. These will made using only natural ingredients and traditional fermentation techniques.
Finally, Nine Tails, the speakeasy cocktail bar will offer spirited creations alongside thoughtfully designed non-alcoholic options crafted. These are made from artisanal condiments and homemade syrup and cordials.
Wellness
On of the things Six Senses is famous for its wellness and spa programs. In keeping with these ideas, Six Senses Kyoto has it all. Among the offerings are the brand’s signature wellness screenings, half- to six-day wellness programs and a spa.
The Price
Rooms at the Six Senses Kyoto start from around 1000 USD per night. In Australian dollars, you are looking at around $1,600 per night. When I checked, Reward Nights were available for 240,000 points.
IHG One Rewards
The Six Senses Kyoto participates in the IHG One Rewards program. For the most part, that means you will be able to earn and redeem points on your stays. However, some of the perks of the IHG Rewards program, such as the option for breakfast as a Diamond, do not apply.
Thoughts
As an IHG One Rewards member, I like to keep my eye on new properties, especially at the luxury end.
This looks like an awesome property, that is going to sit in my list of aspirational properties. So, I hope that one day I will get a chance to sample the hotel. I guess I’ll need to save my points!
The Six Senses Kyoto website can be found here.