LXR Hotels & Resorts Debuts Asia Pacific Property in Kyoto

ROKU KYOTO joins Hilton’s collection of independent luxury hotels and resorts

LXR Hotels & Resorts, one of Hilton’s (NYSE: HLT) three distinctive luxury brands, announced its debut in Asia Pacific today with the opening of ROKU KYOTO. LXR Hotels & Resorts is a collection of legendary hotels in unique destinations that offers independent travelers a new taste of luxury defined by individuality and one-of-a-kind, immersive local experiences. The property also represents Hilton’s inaugural property in Kyoto, Japan.

“Welcoming LXR Hotels & Resorts in Asia Pacific marks a key milestone in our expanding luxury footprint in the region, complementing the award-winning Waldorf Astoria and Conrad brands to offer the full spectrum of luxury experiences here,” said Alan Watts, president, Asia Pacific, Hilton. “We are thrilled to partner with Tokyu Land Corporation and Tokyu Resorts & Stays Co., Ltd. to bring the LXR brand to Kyoto, one of the world’s most alluring destinations. I am confident that ROKU KYOTO will deliver a bespoke experience of Kyoto and fully immerse travelers in the unique charms of the city, attracting both domestic and international travelers once it is safe to travel again.”

“We’re extremely pleased about the opening of ROKU KYOTO, LXR Hotels & Resorts, and are excited to partner with Hilton again following the successful launch of KYUKARUIZAWA KIKYO, Curio Collection by Hilton in 2018,” said Tatsuaki Takana, managing director and head of wellness promotion unit, Tokyu Land Corporation. “ROKU KYOTO is a true representation of the LXR brand, and showcases a unique travel experience native to Kyoto, its location, history and tradition. Tokyu Land Corporation’s mission remains unchanged through the pandemic, to work with the right partners to offer the highest standard of personalized service to our guests, while delivering comfort and safety to ensure their satisfaction and loyalty.”

Like other hotels in LXR Hotels & Resorts’ portfolio, ROKU KYOTO is located in a destination that is truly one-of-a-kind. Situated beneath the breathtaking panorama of the majestic Takagamine mountains in northern Kyoto, ROKU KYOTO is nestled within the 28.6-acre Shozan Resort Kyoto, a luxury enclave home to some of Kyoto’s most notable and idyllic Japanese gardens, historic architecture and authentic tea houses. The hotel is also located within walking distance from the famed Kinkaku-ji “Golden Pavilion” and other historic temples, such as the Koetsuji Temple and the Genkoan Temple.

“LXR Hotels & Resorts feature a network of distinctive, best-in-class luxury hotels that thrive independently yet are unified by their unrivalled commitment to personalized service with each property providing a truly local and captivating experience,” said Feisal Jaffer, global head, LXR Hotels & Resorts. “The highly-anticipated opening of ROKU KYOTO is the perfect addition to our expanding portfolio and an important brand milestone as the inaugural LXR property in the region. The hotel has been designed to reflect the traditions and tranquillity of northern Kyoto, providing guests with authentic and meaningful experiences of the local area. These experiences are visible through the cultural threads that are woven through every part of the hotel⁠ — from the architecture and design to culinary experiences and experiential immersions that remain true to the destination’s history and heritage.”

Inspired by an artist’s residence

The grounds on which the hotel was built was historically a renowned artisan colony where the classical Rinpa school of Japanese painting was founded around 400 years ago by Hon’ami Koetsu, a Japanese artist, poet, calligrapher, tea master, and landscape designer, considered one of the greatest and most influential artists of the 17th century. Rinpa played a significant role in nurturing important artists and craftsmen over the years and had a strong influence on the development of traditional Japanese art and culture.

Paying homage to the Takagamine area’s rich history, which was also the source of water for washi papermaking, the hotel has been designed by the international design firm, BLINK Design Group, to reflect an artist’s residence. Guests can discover the multi-faceted expressions of traditional Japanese art as they explore the hotel, from exquisite lacquerware at the entrance, bamboo art pieces in the restaurant, ceramics artefacts in the spa, to karakami decorative paper in the guest rooms.

A modern interpretation of traditional Kyoto interiors

Infusing both traditional Kyoto design and modern Japanese aesthetic in calming earthy tones, the 114 thoughtfully designed guest rooms offer a peaceful sanctuary that depicts the beauty and simplicity of Japanese materials and craftsmanship. Overlooking rich natural landscapes, guests can feel connected to the wonders of Kyoto’s storied culture and resplendent nature that evolves with the seasons.

The expansive ROKU Suite offers sweeping views of the mountains along the Tenjin River, while the Takagamine mountains can be observed from the befittingly named, PEAK Suite. The Garden Deluxe rooms each feature a private onsen with a garden, while the Poolside Deluxe rooms are conveniently located closest to the ROKU SPA and provide direct access to the outdoor onsen thermal pool from the room’s private terrace.

THE ROKU SPA offers a selection of spa therapies and treatments that celebrate Japan’s healing traditions, offering an oasis of tranquillity and calm. Guests may also enjoy an original blend of aromatherapy oils infused with the essence of “Kitayama sugi,” a Japanese cedar tree native to the northern Kyoto area. To reconnect with nature and revitalize their mind, body and spirit, guests can relax in the hotel’s exclusive natural onsen pool which is open throughout the year, workout in the 24-hour fitness room, or practice yoga or meditate on the tranquil lawn whilst soaking in the fresh air of Takagamine.

A culinary adventure for the senses

Named after the Tenjin River, the French Restaurant TENJIN welcomes guests to embark on a unique epicurean journey and indulge in French-style dishes made from the finest locally sourced seasonal ingredients. At the Chef’s Table within the restaurant, guests can witness first-hand the art of cooking by the masterful chefs as they present an exclusive seasonal course menu served with a special technique, inspired by the history and culture of the Rinpa school. At the bar, guests can sip on signature cocktails made with local ingredients or enjoy an elegant seasonal afternoon tea. Guests can lounge at the “Engawa”, where they can relax to the sounds of the Tenjin River gently flowing by the indoor patio while enjoying the stunning views which transform with the seasons, providing guests a sensational visual feast all year round.

Explore the wonders of Kyoto

The concierge team will enable guests to experience the hidden treasures of Kyoto through various activities and services curated for the discerning explorer. Guests can enjoy authentic experiences including a Omuro 88 Temple Pilgrimage guided by a priest, learn “kintsugi”⁠—the art of restoring pottery with gold, create traditional ceramic art and even try papermaking by hand with water sourced from the Tenjin River, as it had been done in the ninth century.

ROKU KYOTO, LXR Hotels & Resorts is part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 18 distinct hotel brands. Members who book directly have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount, free standard Wi-Fi, and the Hilton Honors mobile app.

ROKU KYOTO is located at 44-1 Kinugasa Kagamiishi Kita-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto 6038451, Japan. For more information, or to make a reservation, travelers may visit Hilton.com or call +81 (75) 3200111.