Capella, a luxury hotel brand based in Singapore, has opened its first property in Japan in Kyoto’s historic Miyagawa-cho district. The hotel is housed in a reimagined machiya, a traditional Japanese townhouse, located just steps from the Kaburenjo Theatre, where geiko (geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha) perform daily. It is also across the street from Kenninji Temple, one of Kyoto’s oldest Zen Buddhist temples. The hotel is an eight-minute taxi or 18-minute bus ride from Kyoto Station, making it easily accessible for visitors arriving via nearby Osaka or Tokyo airports and traveling by bullet train. Described as a "White Lotus" experience without the drama, Capella Kyoto appeals to affluent international travelers seeking both luxury and cultural immersion. The hotel’s design blends contemporary elegance with bold Japanese artworks and artefacts, creating a serene and high-end atmosphere. Guests can enjoy curated cultural experiences such as private performances and Q&A sessions with maikos from Gion, breathwork and meditation classes, furoshiki wrapping workshops, and visits to a local geta (traditional wooden sandal) atelier where they can learn about the craftsmanship. The hotel features 89 rooms and suites arranged around a tranquil central courtyard. Room types include three standard rooms and five suite options, some with private onsen (hot spring) baths. The largest, the Capella Suite, includes three beds across a two-bedroom layout, a tatami dining room, a 60-minute private onsen, and a 30-minute massage. Even the smallest rooms feel spacious due to warm lighting, wood paneling, shoji screens (paper sliding doors), and neutral color schemes. Decorative elements like Japanese character canvases and shadow art add a unique touch. Three distinct restaurants offer varied dining experiences. SoNoMa, a collaboration with renowned chef Kyle Connaughton, serves contemporary Californian-Japanese fusion in a reimagined machiya teahouse. Lanterne offers refined French cuisine with seasonal Kyoto ingredients, while Yoi provides a lively bar dining experience. Breakfast at Lanterne includes a full buffet and both Japanese and Western hot dishes. The Auriga Spa combines traditional Japanese wellness practices with modern treatments in four private suites, offering relaxation lounges, saunas, steam rooms, and a 24-hour fitness center. Guests can also enjoy private onsen rooms with a complimentary Capella yukata (a traditional light kimono) for added comfort. The hotel is wheelchair accessible, with one fully accessible guest room featuring automatic doors, lowered fixtures, and a roll-in shower. Pets are not allowed except for service animals. Check-in is at 3 p.m., and check-out is at 12 p.m. Complimentary amenities such as cots, high chairs, bathrobes, and children’s toiletries are available for guests traveling with children.