Blending Tradition and Luxury in Kyoto: Interview with The Hotel Seiryu, Kyoto, Kiyomizu

The Hotel Seiryu in Kyoto Kiyomizu offers a unique blend of modern comfort and traditional Kyoto atmosphere. Housed in a converted 1930s school building, it preserves the neighborhood’s heritage while providing luxurious contemporary hospitality. From the carefully designed rooms to its prime location near Kiyomizu Temple, the hotel creates an ideal base for experiencing the city’s charm.

Explore more in this exclusive interview to discover a truly unique stay in Kyoto!

Can you please introduce yourself and your role at The Hotel Seiryu?

My name is Takanori Muroi, and I have been the General Manager of The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu since 2024. With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, both in Japan and abroad, I am committed to offering guests a refined and memorable stay that honors Kyoto’s unique heritage and charm.

How does The Hotel Seiryu uniquely blend Kyoto’s heritage with modern luxury?

Our hotel is just steps away from the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, in one of Kyoto’s most historically significant neighborhoods. Despite the central location, the property is enveloped in a calm, almost peaceful atmosphere that allows guests to truly unwind. We’ve carefully preserved the original architecture of the former school building, blending it with refined, modern interiors and thoughtful service. This balance of past and present creates an experience that is both deeply rooted in Kyoto’s heritage and attuned to the expectations of today’s discerning travelers.

The hotel occupies a former elementary school – a rare transformation. How did you preserve the building’s historical character while adapting it for hospitality?

Transforming this beloved local school into a luxury hotel required great care and respect for its history. We preserved and restored original materials wherever possible, such as the staircase railings, exterior walls, and other architectural elements, which were carefully cleaned and reused. To ensure a comfortable stay, we incorporated custom-designed interiors that blend seamlessly with the building’s heritage while offering modern comforts. These exclusive designs enhance the guest experience by providing both elegance and functionality, allowing us to honor the past while creating a welcoming, luxurious environment.

Could you walk us through the design choices for your rooms?

Our guest rooms are designed to offer a balance between Kyoto’s traditional beauty and modern luxury. Some rooms incorporate elements inspired by Kyoto’s heritage. For example, we’ve included carpets designed to evoke the traditional tiled roofs of Kyoto’s machiya townhouses, adding a distinctive local touch. Other rooms feature a more contemporary feel, where modern design elements are blended with subtle nods to Kyoto’s heritage, whether through color palettes, art, or materials. This combination ensures that each room provides a unique experience, allowing guests to enjoy both the modern luxury they expect and the distinct character of Kyoto.

Beyond typical amenities, what facilities or services at Hotel Seiryu offer guests an authentically local experience?

At The Hotel Seiryu, we offer opportunities for guests to connect with Kyoto’s culture in a genuine and memorable way, such as through private tea ceremonies that provide a quiet encounter with tradition. From within the hotel, guests can enjoy close-up views of the iconic Yasaka Pagoda of Hōkan-ji Temple – a striking symbol of Kyoto’s historic landscape. In the morning, our breakfast features carefully selected local ingredients, allowing guests to begin their day with the seasonal flavors of Kyoto. Through these offerings, we aim to create not just a stay, but a cultural journey rooted in the spirit of the city.

Kyoto is a city of rituals—from tea to Zen. Does the hotel curate exclusive cultural events that immerse guests in these traditions?

Yes, the hotel curates exclusive cultural events that immerse guests in Kyoto’s rich traditions. One of the highlights is a tea ceremony hosted by a master of tea, held in a special guest lounge with a view of the iconic Yasaka Pagoda. In addition, we also offer traditional Japanese events such as Maiko performances, where guests can experience the elegance of Kyoto’s cultural heritage firsthand.

The Kiyomizu neighborhood is rich with hidden gems. How does the hotel guide guests to discover lesser-known temples, shops, or seasonal delights? Do you have any favorite spots to recommend to our readers?

Our concierge team is happy to guide guests to recommended hidden gems, lesser-known temples, shops, and seasonal delights around the Kiyomizu area. Additionally, we suggest guests take a stroll through the neighborhood during early morning or evening hours. Our hotel is the closest luxury hotel to Kiyomizu-dera, and there are many beautiful spots within walking distance, such as Sannen-zaka and Gion, where guests can immerse themselves in the scenic beauty of Kyoto. Early mornings and evenings offer a unique opportunity to experience the true, serene beauty of the city, when the crowds have thinned and the atmosphere is peaceful and almost magical.

What’s one hidden detail in the hotel that surprises guests?

This luxury hotel combines modern design with contemporary comfort and functionality, while preserving the historical building built over 90 years ago as an elementary school. The lounge, available in all guest rooms, offers an up-close view of Yasaka Pagoda, the symbol of Kyoto. Although located in the heart of Kyoto, once you step into the hotel, you will find yourself in a quiet space away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The view that can only be experienced at Hotel Seiryu is truly unique.

Lastly, could we discuss the various cuisines offered by the hotel?

The hotel offers a variety of cuisines to suit guests’ tastes and preferences. For breakfast, you will enjoy a half-buffet with a choice of main dish (Japanese, Western, or vegan). We also have a SUSHI-BAR, where you can enjoy freshly made sushi and fine sake made with the finest ingredients and quality. There is also Benoit Kyoto, a restaurant supervised by Alain Ducasse. Furthermore, the bar boasts a 360-degree panoramic view of Kyoto, where guests can enjoy delicious drinks while taking in the spectacular view of the city. With such a variety of options, guests can fully enjoy a memorable and rich culinary journey within the hotel.

Thank you for sharing your valuable insights about Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu. Your perspective has beautifully illustrated how the hotel preserves Kyoto’s heritage while creating exceptional guest experiences. We’re truly grateful for your time and the thoughtful details you’ve provided about this unique property.

Follow The Hotel Seiryu on: 

Website: https://www.princehotels.com/seiryu-kiyomizu/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seibuprince/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seibuprince

Featured Photo Credit: Hotel Seiryu

Looking for more luxury adventures in Kyoto? Check out our Kyoto Luxury Sake, Whisky, and Cocktail Tour for a night you’ll never forget!