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Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto is a one-of-a-kind stay in the iconic Japanese city.

Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto exterior

The exterior of the Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto.Credit:Courtesy of Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto

In August, a new player entered thehotel scene in Kyoto: Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto.

“The design incorporates elements such ashibawood that reflect the elegance and simplicity of Japanese design philosophy.

Three of the six tiers include private natural onsen, the natural hot spring baths wildly popular throughout Japan.

Onsen guest room at Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto

Interior of an Onsen Retreat Guest Room at the Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto.Courtesy of Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto

My room was so spacious and accommodating that I was often enticed to stay indoors.

The on-site bar, Bar Ryozen, features classic drinks and local sake and whisky from Kyoto.

The Spa

The Banyan Tree Spa pairs Japanese healing practices with global spa treatments.

Japanese Breakfast at Banyan Tree Kyoto

The traditional Japanese Breakfast at Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto.Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure

I indulged in the onsen during my visit and followed it with a Balinese massage.

It also used natural building materials and protected the surrounding trees and bamboo groves during construction.

Location

Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto sits on a hill in the historic Higashiyama Ward of Kyoto.

Noh Stage and Noh masks

Exterior of the Noh Stage aat the Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto and Noh masks being made at Mitsue Nakamura’s studio.From left: Courtesy of Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto; Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure

To get the most up-to-date information on deals, visit the Offers page on the hotel’s website.

Bamboo Forest and Ceramics in Kyoto

The bamboo forest behind Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto and a ceramics activity in Kyoto.Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure

Onsen bath at Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto

The public onsen bath at the Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto.Courtesy of Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

Walking around the Higashiyama Ward neighborhood in Kyoto, Japan.Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure