The Westin Miyako Kyoto

The expansive property is well maintained, and has an impressive lobby with a glass wall that rises from a narrow fountain to the high ceiling. The feel throughout is "upscale business," though it can feel a little impersonal, with lots of metal and glass, and floral fabrics and carpeting. The natural features include gardens with traditional Japanese architecture and impressive views of the mountains and surrounding greenery from the Grand View Restaurant.     

The hotel is in the Higashiyama district, a historic area at the foot of Kyoto's eastern mountains with many local restaurants and shops. It’s about a five-minute walk to the Keage subway station. The Gion district is a 20-minute walk and Kyoto station is about 20 to 30 minutes by subway or bus; the hotel offers a free shuttle to both places. There are several attractions and museums within walking distance, including the cherry tree-lined Philosopher’s Walk, which is 25 minutes on foot, the Nanzenji temple, and the National Museum of Modern Art, which are both a 10-minute walk. 

The 499 rooms have a straightforward, standard hotel style, with simple light wood furniture and upholstered chairs. The rooms are somewhat dated looking, but have comfortable beds. Bathrooms are much more modern in style, with dark marble countertops, bowl sinks, shower/tub combos, and stall showers. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, minibars, coffee- and tea-making facilities, robes, and slippers. Some rooms have small balconies with beautiful views of the city and mountains.

The Aquablu restaurant serves buffet and a la carte meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while the third-floor Grand View Restaurant serves French and continental cuisine alongside beautiful views of Kyoto and the mountains from floor-to-ceiling windows. At Kacho, food is prepared in traditional Shabu-Shabu and Sumo hot pots, and there’s also Kunugi Teppanyaki, where food is prepared on table-side grills. The Mayfair Tea Room serves pastries and desserts along with tea and coffee while the Moonlight Bar has live jazz music. 

The property has some lovely natural features, including Japanese-style gardens with waterfalls and a bird sanctuary. There’s an indoor pool with views of the mountains and a curvy outdoor pool, which was designed in the shape of Lake Biwa. For more views of the city, there’s a terrace with small tables and wooden sun loungers, and both the tennis court and the gym have city and mountain views. Sothys Skin Care Salon And Spa has a full menu of services. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel and there’s a business center with computers and printers. Guests in Executive Club rooms and suites have access to the Executive Club Lounge, which includes a free continental breakfast and evening cocktails.