SOWAKA
Kiyoicho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
“Restored sukiya sanctuary”
Vibe
Shigenori Uoya restored this Taishō-era ryōtei around mossy courtyard gardens, balancing quiet sukiya-zukuri woodwork with refined contemporary calm.
“Restored sukiya sanctuary”
Custom Iwata natural-fiber mattresses, Kazurasei camellia bath amenities, deep hinoki tubs, and private dawn temple tours.
Architect Shigenori Uoya blends century-old sukiya-zukuri carpentry with sleek cedar-accented annex minimalism and courtyard gardens.
A restored Taishō-era ryōtei preserving historic sliding windows, tokonoma alcoves, and an on-site natural spring well.
In historic Gion along Shimogawara-dori, steps from Yasaka Shrine and Kodai-ji temple
Rooms
Rooms feature custom Iwata mattresses, cedar accents, and deep hinoki soaking tubs that open onto private tsubo-niwa courtyard greenery.
Backstory
Saved from condominium redevelopment, the former teahouse takes its name from the Sanskrit blessing traditionally spoken at the close of Buddhist sutras.
Eat & drink
Chef Takaaki Kato serves seasonal kaiseki at Gion Loka, while the bar pairs local spirits with views of the illuminated courtyard.
The neighborhood
Tucked along stone-paved Shimogawara-dori in Higashiyama, the hotel sits just steps from the quiet temple grounds of Yasaka and Kodai-ji.
The app
Hotel Please was drawn for the phone in your hand — and this is the flat version of it.
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