My latest piece for The Japan Times in print and online explores one of the most anticipated hotel openings in recent memory — Imperial Hotel Kyoto, set to welcome its first guests on 5 March 2026.
The venue is the former Yasaka Kaikan, a 1936 landmark that has presided over Hanamikoji street in Gion Kobu for nearly nine decades. Its architectural kinship with Imperial Hotel Tokyo — both quietly imbued with the legacy of Frank Lloyd Wright — is unmistakable.
The article revolves around the interview with General Manager Reiko Sakata, whose strong presence I can only describe as magnetic. Within moments of meeting her, anyone understands why she was entrusted with this astoundingly important role.
I am also pleased to mention in my article that Japanese wine features across the hotel’s dining venues. Though I was unable to reference specific labels, the list explains its commitment to showcasing Japan’s evolving viticultural landscape.
I leave you with a conviction, not a prediction: people will travel to Kyoto — from across Japan and from every corner of the world — for the sake of staying at Imperial Hotel Kyoto, and meeting Ms. Sakata and her team.
The online version will be released shortly.
