Credit:Yoshihiro Makino
The original building held a telephone company designed by one of the best Japanese modern architects,so it already had a great canvas to paint upon. In a mesh of traditional and current aesthetics,Japanese ryokan style meets long-time Los Angeles-based Ace collaborators to create a fresh new look for the brand. Entering the lobby,guests are welcomed by staff behind a remarkable hand-hammered copper doughnut reservation desk. The slick,spacious lobby has a line of tables for remote workers who quietly tap away alongside couches for casual gatherings and easy access to Portland USA’s Stumptown Coffee Roasters,Japan’s first outlet. Upstairs,the fun continues at bar PIOPIKO,with a DJ,blue velvet sofas and copper booths among huge potted plants and an impressive bar,which has an inviting happy hour from 3-6pm,and again from 10pm to close.
Credit:Yoshihiro Makino
The Room
Of the 213 rooms,I’m in a Standard King,and immediately recognise the Pendleton blanket adorning the king-sized bed and the signature turntable accompanied by vintage vinyl. But new is the bold,bright Japanese-designed artwork hanging over the bed and the glorious arched floor-to-ceiling window overlooking the streets of Kyoto. There are beautiful Japanese ceramics for coffee and tea,and reasonably priced curated drinks and snacks in the minibar. In the slick black-slate bathroom sits a soaking tub and shower with luxurious Tokyo brand uka products plus a separate Toko toilet. There’s also a smart TV where you can stream Netflix from your own device.