Minimalist Japantown revival
A reimagined midcentury motor inn channels Japanese wabi-sabi simplicity into Japantown, pairing evening lobby wine with courtyard lawn games and firepits.
“In 2022, the rebranding of the property brought with it a complete renovation, bringing light and airiness to the once-dark interiors of its 130 guest rooms.”
Where it shines
Notable
Shibori textiles and light wood furnishings bring Japanese minimalism to redesigned guest rooms.
Listed
Guests gather over evening wine in the lobby before heading outside for courtyard lawn games.
Listed
Lobby sake tastings and Japanese soda machines anchor the property in its historic neighborhood.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Also in AFAR.
redesigned and repurposed into a boutique hotel that takes its style cues from Japanese wabi-sabi to create the soothing, minimalist interiors.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Set in Japantown, the hotel sits steps from the Peace Pagoda, neighborhood ramen spots, and the baths at Kabuki Springs.
The rooms
Bedrooms display kimono-style robes, indigo-dyed fabrics, and light wood, while select upper floors open onto private balconies overlooking Peace Plaza.
The gym
The fitness room has a Peloton bike and Precor cardio machines, and yoga mats wait in every guest room.
Dogs stay too.
At the table
Hed 11 serves an eleven-course Thai tasting menu by Chef Piriya Boonprasarn, and the bar mixes Thai-inspired cocktails.
How it began
Named after the imperfect Zen circle, the property evolved through several motel iterations before its full wabi-sabi redesign in 2022.
Good to know
Stay here
Kimpton Hotel Enso
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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.