Kyoto, JapanArashiyama
Arashiyama House MAMA
Minimalist artisan lodgings
Minimalist artisan lodgings
Original wooden beams and a traditional gate frame a quiet retreat where days unfold at an unhurried residential pace.
What it’s good at
Notable
Exposed wooden beams, minimalist joinery, and custom furniture handcrafted by local Kyoto artisans define ten distinct rooms.
Notable
Morning sets feature fresh Sagano vegetables, while wood-fired pizzas showcase seasonal Kujo scallions and local produce.
Listed
A restored former railway company retreat preserving its traditional entrance gate, garden greenery, and original timber architecture.
Somewhere quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Tucked in a residential lane four minutes from Hankyu Arashiyama Station, the Katsura River and Togetsukyo Bridge are steps away.
The rooms
Each room features custom joinery by local craftsmen, while select layouts add deep stone soaking tubs facing secluded courtyard greenery.
Restaurant
PIZZERIA MAMA
Pizzas bake in a wood-fired oven with seasonal Kujo scallions and whitebait, looking out on lush garden greenery.
How it began
Built originally as a private holiday retreat for Hankyu Railway staff, the property was thoughtfully restored and reopened in 2021.
Kyoto
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.