Three Prestigious Kyoto Hotels Earn One Michelin Key Each for 2025

Kyoto’s Rising Stars: Michelin Keys for Luxury Hotels

In a prestigious recognition event held in Paris on October 8, 2025, three hotels managed by World Brands Collection Hotels & Resorts Company have been awarded one Michelin Key each. These are Banyan Tree Higashiyama, Six Senses Kyoto, and GARRYAA Nijo Castle. This recognition reflects their outstanding hospitality and unique experiences, marking a remarkable achievement for the Kyoto hospitality scene.

Banyan Tree Higashiyama, Kyoto: A Sanctuary of Wellness

Banyan Tree Higashiyama made its impressive debut with this first-time Michelin Key award. Opened in August 2024, this small luxury hotel is nestled in a serene natural setting surrounded by bamboo groves. With only 52 rooms, it promises an intimate and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Kyoto. The hotel showcases a modern ryokan aesthetic, featuring on-site hot springs and luxurious spa facilities.

Guests are welcomed with traditional thin matcha and original wagashi sweets, creating a charming atmosphere right from their arrival. The interiors reflect local history and culture through unique art pieces. Notably, this hotel is home to the only Noh stage found in a city hotel, where traditional performances connect guests to the rich tapestry of Japanese culture. Each room exudes elegance, inspired by the Zen philosophy of aesthetic restraint, accented with exclusive Japanese-inspired amenities and seasonal local breakfasts.

The Banyan Tree hotel embodies the spirit of "Sense of Place," seamlessly integrating local culture into its luxury offerings while providing a unique hotel experience that resonates deeply with its guests.

Six Senses Kyoto: A Blend of Luxury and Sustainability

Receiving its second consecutive Michelin Key, Six Senses Kyoto emphasizes wellness and sustainability alongside luxurious experiences. Launched in April 2024, this urban resort draws on the grandeur of the Heian period for its design concept while integrating biophilic principles to harmonize with its natural surroundings.

The hotel boasts 81 uniquely designed rooms that illustrate Japanese folklore, creating an atmosphere that is both playful and sophisticated. Certain suites feature private Japanese gardens, while the standout 238-square-meter three-bedroom penthouse offers lavish accommodations. A notable highlight of Six Senses Kyoto is its award-winning spa, tailored dining experiences focused on seasonal and sustainable ingredients, and the Nine Tails cocktail bar, which showcases local distillates. Moreover, the educational Earth Lab promotes sustainability, helping guests engage with the environment while enjoying luxury.

In achieving LEED certification in 2024 and accolades from publications like Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure in 2025, Six Senses Kyoto continues to elevate its standing as a global destination.

GARRYAA Nijo Castle: Where Tradition Meets Luxury

Also honored for the second consecutive year, GARRYAA Nijo Castle provides a unique luxury experience in the vicinity of the World Heritage Site, Nijo Castle. Opened in June 2022, this small luxury hotel operates with a focus on wellness in a tranquil atmosphere aimed at rejuvenation.

The hotel features 25 elegantly designed rooms, many with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views of the picturesque Japanese gardens and Nijo Castle. Guests can enjoy a serene environment that encourages relaxation and mindfulness within its beautifully intricate settings, complemented by a range of wellness amenities, including exercise equipment in well-appointed rooms. Each corner of GARRYAA showcases tea, Zen, and traditional Japanese art, creating a truly transcendental experience.

The Road Ahead

These prestigious awards inspire continued dedication to unparalleled hospitality and a commitment to providing guests with unforgettable experiences. As these hotels shine as examples of luxurious hospitality in Kyoto, they embody the perfect blend of tradition and modernity—each providing a unique perspective on Japan's rich culture and heritage.

For more information on these remarkable establishments, you can visit:

Continued focus on heartfelt service ensures that every encounter is meaningful as these establishments strive to offer exclusive and memory-making experiences in the heart of Kyoto.