Hoshinoya Kyoto

A contemporary, resort-like riff on the traditional ryokan, this uber-luxe retreat in a tranquil corner of the bustling Arashiyama district is one of those places you stay when you want your accommodation to be much more than a sightseeing base.

A stay here is experiential, from the short boat trip upriver from Arashiyama for check-in to cultural activities like incense appreciation and capping an evening with an artistically presented kaiseki-ryori dinner.

The spacious guestrooms are something to savour – a sleek blend of modern and traditional Japanese luxury. If there’s a drawback, it’s location. Arashiyama is great to explore for a couple of days, but then it’s a bit of a drag getting to other parts of Kyoto.

It’s best to splurge here for a night or two, then relocate.