Roku Kyoto: A Retreat in the Foothills of Mount Takagamine
A brand new destination tucked away in Kyoto’s Takagamine mountainside, Roku Kyoto has the atmosphere of a remote location whilst being a stones throw from Kyoto’s many shrines, temples and ancient gardens. If you’re like me, and looking for unique design hotels when travelling, then Roku Kyoto’s traditional-inspired art and architecture will not disappoint. Referencing Kyoto’s artisanal history, each of the 114 guest rooms overlooks the immaculate zen gardens and floating ponds below, and are inspired by Japanese ‘Minka-style’ homes – featuring ‘urushi’ lacquerware and traditional ‘takezaiku’ bamboo weaving techniques.
The Offer
Combining the best of a stylish modern and classic ancient design, Roku Kyoto appeals to a wide range of discerning travellers with a keen eye for detail. Its architecture, designed by Blink Design Group, includes external walkways sheltered by light-coloured pitched wooden roofs, windows that perfectly frame the hotel’s surroundings, and a poetic dance between indoor and outdoor spaces - a modern minimalist take on Japanese temple design and a juxtaposition of the natural world that surrounds it.
While the design of Roku is minimal, this retreat-like resort has numerous examples of traditional Japanese craftsmanship (over 500 crafts and artworks) - an ode to ancient Japan around every corner. Bamboo artwork in the restaurant Tenjin, and wabi-sabi ceramics in the North Garden tea house are just some of the examples. The hotel also offers washi paper making, kintsugi workshops, tea ceremonies, porcelain making, and even a Roku Kyoto Treasure hunt for the kids.
All 114 rooms are based on Hon’ami Koetsu, a Japanese artist born in 1558 whose residence (now a small temple) is just a 10-minute cycle away from the hotel. Expect neutral tones, bespoke ceramics, woven headboards, and kyo-karakami (woodblock prints) made by local artisans.
The on-site restaurant, Tenjin, offers guests a choice of three separate dining spaces, each exploring the blend of local seasonal produce with contemporary French techniques. The menu at the chef’s table includes dishes such as Kyotamba venison, Chirimen sansho, Caviar French white asparagus, firefly squid, and wild boar and Soba.
The Roku spa is a highlight of any visit. End your day by taking a dip in the outdoor thermal pool, and spoiling yourself with the signature Tenjingawa massage where stones are first soaked in the Tenjin River before being heated and used as part of the treatment.
Finally, retreat back to your room to decompress after a day of exploration. During my visit, I stayed in the Takagamine Deluxe Room with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the majestic Takagamine Mountain - an incredible view to wake up to.
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The Location
While Kyoto is a fairly relaxed area of Japan to visit, it's still a tourist hotspot. Roku’s relatively remote area ensures a peaceful visit. That remoteness comes with a few added benefits, and the nearby luxury Kyoto hotel Aman also takes advantage of it.
Wander various routes around the hotel that weave in and out of the Kitayama cedar trees and gardens, and explore Josho-ji and Geko-an temple, both very close by, either on foot or on two wheels. While tourist hotspots like kinkaku-ji are just moments away, heading back to Roku at the end of the day is a welcome retreat.
Who is it For?
Travellers looking for an accessible way to experience a traditional slice of Japan will feel right at home here. While the hotel does have a sophisticated feel to it, kids of all ages are welcome and thanks to the on-site team, there’s plenty for them to do. You’ll have the benefit of its remote, oasis-like environment while being able to keep the kids happy. Families can take advantage of the poolside rooms, outdoor onsen, children-friendly menus, treasure hunt, and kids-only Roku Kyoto Backstage Tour.
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Sustainability
The hotel embraces one of Japan’s long-standing sustainable traditions - kintsugi. Any ceramic breakage is sent off to local artisans for repair and filled with a mix of lacquer and gold leaf before being returned to the hotel. Other areas of the resort do their best to reduce the use of plastic by swapping in paper and glass containers as well as bathroom amenities packaged in aluminium. Paperless guestrooms are another undertaken initiative with most information available on the in-room TV.
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Important Information
How to get there
Car: 30 minutes from Kyoto Station
Train: 13 minutes from Kyoto Station via Karasuma Line to Kitaoji Station, then 10 minutes by taxi
Check-in / Check-out: 3:00 PM / 12:00 PM
Number of Onsen: One onsen thermal pool
Pets: Not Allowed
Book: Roku Kyoto
Address: 44-1 Kinugasa Kagamiishicho, Kita-ku Kyoto 603-8451
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