Kyoto has long been a bucket-list destination for culture seekers, and its popularity shows no sign of slowing. Recently, the iconic fashion and lifestyle magazine Vogue published their list of the 10 best places to visit for 2025, and the city was one of the places featured. A big part of the inclusion of Kyoto on this list was the recent influx of luxurious accommodation openings, offering a refined blend of modern comfort and authentic Japanese hospitality.
One of the new hotels mentioned was The Shinmonzen, designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando. This boutique hotel is situated in the heart of Kyoto’s geisha district, and has already made waves as one of the world’s most exclusive stays. Other notable luxury brands such as Banyan Tree and Six Senses have also set up shop in Kyoto, offering unique, high-end experiences that go beyond just accommodation. Additionally, the upcoming Capella Hotel near Kenninji Temple is designed by Kengo Kuma, and promises to raise the bar even further with its sprawling zen gardens, omakase-style dining, and wellness offerings.
Of course, a key consideration with a visit to Kyoto is the pressing need for responsible travel in this part of Japan. The sheer number of visitors each year has placed pressure on local communities and led to overcrowding on public transport and at popular places like Kiyomizudera Temple and Fushimi Inari Shrine. Our recent article about responsible travel is a recommended read, and provides a number of tips on how you can maximize your enjoyment of Japan whilst balancing the needs of the areas that you visit.
For those seeking a less touristy alternative to Japan’s crowded hotspots, the Ryukyu Islands were also mentioned on Vogue's list. The islands stretch from the southern tip of Japan down through the South China Sea, and are known for their stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. The best known island—and the largest—is Okinawa, but others like Miyakojima also received recognition in the Vogue write-up, with a new Piet Boon-designed Rosewood hotel set to open up in the new year.
