ARCHITECTURE

HOSHINOYA's Novel Take on
Traditional Japanese Architecture

The resort was designed by the architect Rie Azuma, who started with a miraculously preserved historical ryokan inn in scenic Arashiyama that was built a century ago. Her goal was not to simply renovate it, but to study the essence of the original structure, then breath new life into it in a way that would not only pay homage to the cultural richness of Kyoto, but also convey the elements that define HOSHINOYA.

Kyoto is still home to many artisanal design elements that have otherwise disappeared from Japan’s buildings—from Kyoto-style paper furnishings known as karakami to clay walls and Japanese tiles. It is one of few places in Japan that continues to preserve ancient traditions, yet, at the same time, it is a progressive city that actively incorporates and attempts to produce new and original ideas.

With HOSHINOYA Kyoto, Azuma has successfully preserved the lightness of Japanese wood architecture, the standalone structure of every guest room, and the mood evoked by the history of the villa, while infusing the entire resort with a sense of wonder and relaxation unique to HOSHINOYA Kyoto. The result is an entirely unique space, the likes of which cannot be found anywhere else.