Reviving Kyoto: Vortex and Renovare Reopen Three Hotels Post-COVID

Reviving Kyoto: Vortex and Renovare's New Hotels

In a remarkable revival effort post-COVID-19, Vortex Co., a company specializing in asset formation consulting, has collaborated with Renovare Co., an innovative renovation platform, to breathe new life into three luxury hotels in the heart of Kyoto. Named "yugen kyoto shijo," "soyo-ne kyoto sanjo," and "soyo-ka kyoto sanjo," these hotels are set to open their doors on December 18, 2025, promising a unique blend of traditional Kyoto aesthetics and modern luxury.

Project Background

The buildings, originally constructed as hotels in late 2019 and early 2020, faced an uphill battle due to pandemic-induced travel restrictions and decreased tourism. As a result, these properties remained dormant for nearly five years, waiting for the right opportunity to be revived. In 2025, a fund backed by Vortex acquired all three properties, initiating a comprehensive renovation initiative in partnership with Renovare, which took charge of the planning, design, and construction as well as the furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FFE).

With an anticipated surge in inbound tourism, which is projected to exceed pre-COVID levels, the demand for a diverse range of accommodations has risen sharply in Kyoto. As the market experiences a wave of new luxury hotel openings and a rise in vacation rentals, Vortex and Renovare have crafted an innovative hotel experience that caters to evolving traveler preferences, focusing on separate accommodations with authentic domestic experiences. Their vision leans heavily on creating what they term “small luxury” hotels that combine comfort with cultural engagement, allowing guests to enjoy lengthy stays in a homelike atmosphere, infused with high-quality materials and tranquil spaces.

To achieve this, the design team maximized the potential of existing high-quality fixtures and installations that had been preserved in excellent condition. This strategy allows them to allocate limited renovation funds effectively, focusing on key areas such as the lobby—often the face of any hotel—and FFE that greatly influences guest satisfaction. Early booking data indicates a positive response, with a significant proportion of reservations made by international guests, highlighting the effectiveness of their strategy.

The hotels will also feature cafés and restaurants on the ground floors to provide spaces for local residents and visitors alike, fostering community engagement and interaction.

Project Details

The overriding concept behind the project is to provide guests with an opportunity to experience today's Kyoto through a harmonious blend of traditional and modern influences. Each hotel is designed to be inviting and sophisticated, reflecting the culture of Kyoto while offering a refined yet approachable environment.

Shared Spaces: The Face of the Hotel

Each of the hotels has undergone significant redesign to establish a warm initial impression through its lobby and signage, creating spaces that resonate with Kyoto's rich history while integrating contemporary luxury. For instance, "yugen kyoto shijo" features revitalized external designs that incorporate greenery, skillfully merging with the historic streets of Kyoto.

Individual Guest Rooms

All guest rooms will be outfitted with completely new FFEs, crafted to evoke a sense of homeliness and comfort akin to living in an upscale yet culturally significant setting. Preservation of traditional styles meets modern selections, featuring iconic Japanese furniture designed for comfort and aesthetics. This includes injecting elements from “Niche Chair X” and high-end designs from the globally recognized brand “ARIAKE.” Moreover, the design accommodates group stays seamlessly, incorporating additional sleeping arrangements like sofa beds.

Signage and Global Design

To elevate the overall experience, new elegant signage across all hotels will confer a consistent global standard while enhancing the visual identity of each property.