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Kyoto and Osaka gain popularity with Indian travellers: Rategain
Asian woman wearing japanese traditional kimono at Yasaka Pagoda and Sannen Zaka Street in Kyoto, Japan A quiet revolution is unfolding in how India travels. No longer content with ticking boxes or flocking to the usual suspects, Indian travellers are breaking away from the expected — choosing deeper cultural experiences, rediscovering hidden gems, and reshuffling the global travel deck in the process. Shifting preferences in Global Travel Between May 1 and June 30 this year, outbound hotel bookings from India have revealed a dramatic shift in preference Japan, in particular, is capturing the imagination of Indian travellers like never before according to World on Holiday by RateGain. Tokyo has long held its allure, but this summer, it’s Kyoto and Osaka that are stealing the spotlight. Hotel bookings to Kyoto have surged by 184%, and Osaka is close behind with a 195% jump. Tokyo itself has seen a 91% rise, but the real story lies in the growing appetite for a more nuanced, culturally immersive Japan — temples over skyscrapers, heritage over high-tech. Across the world, this trend of deeper discovery is catching on. France, Germany, Switzerland, and Singapore are all seeing double-digit increases in hotel bookings from India. Almaty in Kazakhstan, perhaps the most unexpected entrant, has soared with a staggering 602% rise in bookings due to easy visas and, direct flights. Yet, as some destinations rise, others are quietly losing favor. New York, once a mainstay on outbound itineraries, has seen a 47% drop in hotel bookings from Indian travellers. Singapore and Bangkok, long considered staples of the Indian travel calendar, are witnessing a decline as well. The narrative is changing — travellers are no longer drawn purely by what’s popular. This shift is equally evident at the country level. Vietnam is experiencing one of the steepest climbs, with hotel bookings up 351% compared to last year. Japan follows closely, having grown 212% in the same period. Increased air connectivity has made Japan more accessible than ever to Indian travellers fueling this surge. Meanwhile, Spain and Canada are both seeing a noticeable drop, signaling that Indian travellers are turning their attention away from over-familiar Western hotspots in favor of emerging destinations. Rising Domestic Travel Back home, the travel story is just as dynamic. Domestic hotel bookings are up 55% compared to last summer — and it’s not just the usual suspects leading the charge. While metros like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune, and Chennai continue to see strong demand, it’s the tier-2 cities that are making headlines. Ahmedabad has seen a staggering 8,300% surge in bookings, powered by better air connectivity and focused tourism campaigns. Cities like Visakhapatnam and Amritsar are also climbing fast, signaling a broader shift in how Indians explore their own country.
Yuki Yamano is new general manager at Kyoto’s SOWAKA Hotel
Renowned Kyoto luxury boutique hotel SOWAKA Hotel announced the appointment of its new general manager Yuki Yamano on Tuesday, 1st April. With her extensive background in luxury hospitality and a deep-rooted passion for cultural heritage, Yamano brings a wealth of experience to the esteemed property. In her new capacity, Yamano sees the SOWAKA as a sanctuary where personalised service and cultural experiences harmonise with the hotel’s authentic heritage architecture. She said: “My goal is to enhance SOWAKA’s unique charm, ensuring that every guest experiences the rich cultural tapestry of Kyoto while enjoying world-class hospitality.” Under her leadership, she plans to refine SOWAKA’s guest experience, expanding its wellness offerings with Zen meditation and cultural activities that reflect the timeless beauty of Kyoto. Beyond guest experience, Yamano is also dedicated to preserving SOWAKA’s historic Taisho-era architecture, ensuring that visitors can fully appreciate Kyoto’s cultural legacy. As she puts it: “SOWAKA is more than a hotel: it is a living piece of history. Our mission is to allow guests to see, touch, and experience the architectural masterpiece that has stood for over a century.” Meet Yuki Yamano Originally from Osaka, Yamano spent her career in some of the world’s most prestigious hotels. A graduate of Osaka University of Foreign Studies with a major in Southeast Asian language and culture, she began her journey as a concierge at The Westin Osaka before expanding her expertise abroad. Her career highlights include leadership roles at Amanpuri in Phuket, 137 Pillars Hotels & Residences, Anantara Layan Resort, and Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto. With over two decades of experience across ten properties, her appointment marks an exciting new chapter for SOWAKA. In addition to her professional achievements, Yamano balances her career with raising a young son and is currently learning the art of wearing a kimono, a pursuit she hopes will deepen her connection to Kyoto’s traditions. With her expertise, passion, and dedication, she is poised to lead SOWAKA into a new era of excellence, ensuring that it remains a cherished destination for travellers seeking an authentic Kyoto experience.
Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto announces culinary collaboration with SEN
Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto is set to regale diners with a singular culinary collaboration with Kyoto's acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurant SEN. This dining experience is a limited engagement as it will only be available at Ryozen, the hotel's kappo-style restaurant, until 6th May. For this collaboration, chefs Akizaki of Ryozen and Ken Sugisawa of SEN join forces to craft an unparalleled Japanese dining experience. Serenity on a plate Reflecting the spirit of Japanese hospitality, their collaboration will celebrate the delicate balance of space, tableware, and cuisine, offering a gastronomic journey exclusive to Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto. Set within a serene Japanese garden with breathtaking views of an authentic Bamboo Pavilion, Ryozen offers an immersive experience where guests can savor exquisite Japanese flavors in a tranquil and refined atmosphere. This one-of-a-kind culinary encounter invites guests to engage all five senses in a celebration of Japanese tradition and innovation.
The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu wins accolades
The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu has been awarded the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star rating for the fourth consecutive year, reaffirming its reputation for exceptional hospitality. With 48 elegantly designed rooms, the hotel first earned a Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star award in 2022. Originally built as Kiyomizu Elementary School in 1933, the building was transformed into a boutique hotel while preserving its historical charm. Situated in Kyoto’s Higashiyama ward, the hotel offers easy access to some of the city’s most famous landmarks. Guests can explore the nearby Kiyomizudera Temple, which means "Pure Water Temple," the historic Gion district, renowned for its geisha culture, and the traditional streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, lined with wooden townhouses, shops, and teahouses. Yasaka Shrine and the scenic Maruyama Park are also within walking distance, offering an authentic immersion into Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage. A new landmark in Tokyo’s urban landscape, Takanawa Gateway City, measuring 1.6 km long, will hold a shopping center, public garden, offices, a cultural facility and more. One of the highlights is 53 Playable Park, and JW Marriott Hotel Tokyo within the complex, equipped with 200 guest rooms, restaurant and bar, and more. The site is also set to become a premier MICE destination, featuring the Takanawa Gateway Convention Center featuring 1,640 m² hall capable of hosting up to 2,000 attendees. Conveniently located just 15 minutes from Haneda Airport, Takanawa Gateway City provides seamless access to some of Tokyo’s most iconic attractions. Visitors can easily reach Tokyo Tower, an emblematic symbol of the city offering panoramic views, as well as the vibrant shopping districts of Ginza and Shibuya, known for their high-end fashion, and bustling nightlife. History and culture enthusiasts can explore Zojoji Temple, a historic Buddhist site nestled near Tokyo Tower, and Shiba Park, one of the oldest parks in the city, providing a serene retreat amid the urban landscape. Additionally, the nearby Roppongi district offers a dynamic mix of art galleries, entertainment, and fine dining, making Takanawa Gateway City an ideal base for travellers experiencing both traditional and contemporary Tokyo
Dusit Thani Kyoto merits four-star rating from Forbes Travel Guide
Dusit International’s luxurious urban oasis Dusit Thani Kyoto recently earned the 2025 Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Award, a distinction that bolsters its reputation as one of Kyoto's most exceptional hotels. The Four-Star rating is awarded to properties that demonstrate exceptional service and outstanding facilities. Dusit Thani Kyoto earned this distinction through rigorous, undercover assessments by Forbes Travel Guide's inspectors, who experienced the hotel just as a typical guest would, paying their own way to ensure impartiality. Makoto Yamashita, cluster general manager for the Dusit Thani Tokyo and ASAI Kyoto Shijo remarked: "Receiving Forbes Travel Guide's distinguished Four-Star Award just over a year after our opening is a remarkable achievement and a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence, heartfelt service, and creating truly memorable experiences for our guests. Inspired by this accolade and our One Michelin Key status, we remain committed to raising the bar, delivering exceptional service, and ensuring our hotel continues to be a place of warmth, elegance, and meaningful connections for all who visit." Since it opened in Kyoto’s Hongwanji Monzen-machi district September 2023, Dusit Thani Kyoto has seamlessly blended Thai-inspired gracious hospitality with Japan's deep-rooted culture of omotenashi (wholeheartedly looking after guests). The hotel features 147 meticulously designed guest rooms that balance timeless elegance with contemporary comfort. Sustainably delectable The Dusit Thani Kyoto has also served as a hub of gourmet dining experiences where guests can embark on an interactive omakase journey at Kōyō, which showcases Kyoto's 24 micro-seasons through the finest ingredients. Den Kyoto, on the other hand, elevates mixology with handcrafted cocktails infused with Thai herbs, while Ayatana, the hotel's signature Thai fine-dining restaurant, delivers an exquisite celebration of Thai flavours and culinary artistry. Committed to sustainability, Ayatana sources premium seasonal ingredients from the Kansai region, including fresh herbs and vegetables from Ohara Farm and organic tea leaves from its own tea farm in Wazuka. Alongside versatile event spaces that accommodate up to 240 guests, the hotel also boasts a signature Devarana Wellness centre, where expert therapists blend ancient Thai massage therapies with traditional Japanese healing rituals, ensuring a truly restorative experience.
Kyoto takes stand against overtourism
The Japanese city of Kyoto continues to combat overtourism and will not be reopening certain areas in key locations to tourists in 2025. Back in March, Kyoto’s local government barred tourists from entering side-streets in the famed Gion geisha quarter after tourists harassed locals and caused both damage to property and harm to individuals. Following observations, the ban will remain in place well into next year. Prior to the ban, Gion’s residents implored the city government to do something about tourists who treated the area like a theme park. Unpleasant but necessary Isokazu Ota, a member of the Kyoto City Council, declared at the time the closure was announced: "We will ask tourists to refrain from entering narrow private streets in or after April. We don't want to do this, but we're desperate." Even before the pandemic, Kyoto residents, particularly those in heritage centres like Gion, complained of the disruptive behaviour of foreign tourists as well as the adverse effects of overtourism on the local economy. There have been reported incidents of maiko (student geisha) being grabbed by tourists to serve as living props for selfies, their garments torn, and, in one incident, set alight by a dropped cigarette butt. As of press time, tourists exhibiting inappropriate or disrespectful behaviour stand to pay fines of up to US$70. However, such fines have done little to curb such behaviour on the part of foreigners.
Hilton marks milestones as it opens Hilton Kyoto and Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda
Hilton announced the opening of two new hotels in Japan, a move that shows its drive to expand its presence in the country. The opening of the Hilton Kyoto marks the debut of the company’s flagship brand in the city considered to be the heart of cultural tourism in Japan. Likewise, the opening of the Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda is another milestone, as it is the first Canopy property to open outside of China. Two distinctive properties Hilton area vice-president and head for Japan, Korea, and Micronesia Joseph Khairallah expressed his pleasure at the opening of Hilton's flagship brand hotel in Kyoto. Khairallah said: “With its strategic location and signature Hilton hospitality, Hilton Kyoto is ideally suited to serve business and leisure demand in the Kyoto market. The hotel is well-positioned to meet the diverse needs of guests along with our four other hotels in the city. We look forward to providing our signature hospitality and thoughtful service to both international and domestic guests in Kyoto.” For his part, Hilton president in the Asia Pacific Alan Watts remarked on the timely opening of Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda, given that the city is getting ready to welcome global travellers next year for Expo 2025. Watts said: “We are proud to debut our Canopy by Hilton brand and deliver truly bespoke, locally inspired stays in one of the world’s most sophisticated travel destinations. Canopy Osaka Umeda represents yet another exciting growth chapter for Hilton, this time within the vibrant, fast-growing lifestyle category, and is set to define new benchmarks for hospitality once again.” Infusing tradition into modern hospitality Hilton Kyoto is situated in the Kawaramachi Sanjo neighborhood, approximately 15 minutes by car from Kyoto Station or a two-minute walk from Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Tozai Line. The hotel offers convenient access to major tourist attractions such as the world-famous Kiyomizu Temple, known for its distinctive architecture, as well as the Heian Jingu Shrine. Hilton Kyoto is also within walking distance of Gion and Pontocho, entertainment enclaves well-known for their traditional streetscapes. The design of Hilton Kyoto is centered around the concept of creating a 'Kyoto synapse': seamlessly connecting guests to the city's unique blend of history, modernity, tradition, and innovation. Drawing inspiration from orimono, Kyoto’s iconic textiles, the hotel's design elements of intricate lattice patterns greet guests upon arrival in the stunning five-storey atrium lobby. A colourful addition to a dynamic city Located within one of Japan’s most exciting urban centers, Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda offers a thoughtfully curated, boutique stay, drawing inspiration from the vibrant energy and cultural heritage of Osaka. Whether for business or leisure, guests are invited to experience a modern and stylish stay rooted in the culture of the local area. Located within the expansive GRAND GREEN OSAKA urban complex, the hotel is surrounded by UMEKITA PARK, lifestyle stores, and community spaces that foster idea generation, innovation and collaboration amongst organizations and institutes in public and private sectors. Conveniently located an approximately seven-minute walk from JR Osaka Station, the hotel provides easy access to major JR, Hankyu and Osaka Metro lines, with Kansai International Airport just an hour away by train. In this prime location, the hotel also serves as an ideal base for exploring neighboring cities like Kyoto, Kobe, and Nara. As a Canopy signature offering, guests can also immerse themselves in the surroundings with complimentary rental bicycles to explore the unique neighborhoods.
AYANA Bali’s SAKA Museum recognised at Kyoto Global Design Awards
SAKA Museum, AYANA Bali's innovative cultural hub and knowledge centre committed to preserving and promoting the island's vibrant living heritage, was named among the Top 100 in this year's Kyoto Global Design Awards. The museum's interior designers, Napp Studio & Architects, were recognized in the Environmental Design category, which emphasises a project's harmonious integration with its natural surroundings. The honour comes just three months after SAKA Museum was included in Time Magazine's World's Greatest Places 2024. The Kyoto Global Design Awards recognize excellence across diverse design fields, spotlighting projects that excel in both aesthetics and environmental responsibility. Reflecting on SAKA Museum's recognition at the Kyoto Global Design Awards, its director Judith Bosnak expressed gratitude for Napp Studio's dedication to creating an exceptional cultural experience rooted in authenticity and environmental awareness. Bosnak said: “This recognition celebrates the ingenuity of our entire SAKA Museum team, while also underscoring the profound importance of sustainable, accessible, and cutting-edge venues for cultural learning.” Casting the spotlight on Balinese heritage Hong Kong-based Napp Studio & Architects designed SAKA Museum, their biggest project to date, to reflect Bali's distinct spiritual and cultural landscape with a state-of-the-art approach. Their captivating interior translates traditional Balinese Hindu philosophies and motifs with a contemporary yet timeless appeal, which speaks to both local and international audiences across generations. Co-founders Aron Tsang and Wesley Ho drew on Nyepi, the island's annual Day of Silence, to guide visitors through a serene, introspective experience. The museum's lobby features a dark, subtly lit ceiling resembling the constellations of Bali's night sky. The space transitions to a soft glow at sunset, when 3,000 LED lights begin to twinkle, an effect achieved through a carefully arranged grid of lights that ingeniously conceals structural elements and fixtures. Napp Studio & Architects maximised the use of local materials such as gray granite flooring and volcanic rock to harmonise with Bali's natural landscape, reduce the project's environmental footprint, and strengthen ties to the community. According to the studio founders: “Our concept aimed to capture the essence of Nyepi, using lighting, local materials, and a colour palette that invites calm reflection, forming spaces that aren't fixed but are open to personal interpretation.” Meanwhile, SAKA Museum's Knowledge Centre, a resource and artefact hub for conservationists, artists, researchers and students, was designed in a warmer palette evoking a wooden chest. The only one of its kind on the island, the Knowledge Centre strengthens AYANA Bali's mission of celebrating Bali's cultural identity and encouraging deeper engagement with all its aspects in a modern environment.
Thai hospitality and Japanese tradition at Dusit Thani Kyoto
At Dusit Thani Kyoto, graceful Thai hospitality and subtle Japanese tradition meet in a luxurious environment where guests enjoy a unique and personalised accommodation experience. An urban sanctuary in the heart of Japan’s ancient capital for business and leisure travellers alike, it is among the leading luxury hotels in Kyoto. Opened in September 2023, it received a coveted One Key distinction from the 2024 Michelin Guide. Located in the peaceful Hanganji Monzen-machi district within walking distance of bustling Kyoto Station, Dusit Thani Kyoto boasts a harmonious fusion of Thai and Japanese influences throughout its architecture and interior design, sustainable dining and culinary offerings, engaging cultural activities and world-class wellness spa. Rooms And Suites Of Elegance The 147 meticulously appointed rooms and suites at Dusit Thani Kyoto offer an inviting balance of elegance and charm. All feature satellite TV with entertainment system, complimentary Wi-Fi, mini bar, tea and coffee making facilities, in-room safe, hairdryer, toiletries and bath amenities. The choice of room categories includes: Deluxe Room; Premier Room; Premier Garden View; One Bedroom Suite; One Bedroom Corner Suite; Premier Suite; and Imperial Suite. Dining To Delight the Palate Thai cuisine and Japanese culinary traditions are celebrated in exquisite style at Dusit Thani Kyoto, with a range of enticing options for memorable dining and socialising. The different concept restaurants serve tantalising dishes using the freshest sustainably sourced ingredients. Ayatana Ayatana offers a multi-sensory fine dining experience that blends the authentic flavours of Thai cuisine with the finest Japanese traditions. Helmed by acclaimed chefs Duangporn ‘Bo’ Songvisava and Dylan Jones - who earned a Michelin star for their previous Bangkok restaurant Bo.lan - the restaurant takes guests on a culinary voyage inspired by the Shojin Ryori philosophy with its connection to seasonal ingredients and sustainability. At Ayatana, sustainability is practically an ingredient that is woven into the dishes. Ensuring farm-to-table freshness, the restaurant uses herbs and vegetables grown in the farming village of Ohara in its dishes. Guests can even visit Ohara to harvest these ingredients themselves, to then enjoy them during dinner at Ayatana. Koyo At Koyo - open for lunch and dinner - the artistry of Japanese cuisine is on full show with talented chefs headed by the esteemed Chef Kondo meticulously crafting sublime dishes right in front of guests in Chef’s Table fashion. While a carefully curated a la carte menu is also available, the true focus is on the superbly designed omakase menu, where each dish is a testament to the chef’s culinary prowess and creativity. Koyo means ‘autumn leaves’ in Japanese, and the restaurant embodies the essence of its name. It sources fresh seasonal produce from the revered Kansai region along with special and rare ingredients, the chefs sharing stories as they create each flavourful dish. A bespoke ‘Omakase Wine Pairing’ option is available featuring sommelier-selected wines, as is tea pairing with the teppanyaki. Koyo also has three Chef’s Table exclusive private rooms, offering luxury and privacy for between six to eight people each. Kati Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Kati showcases traditional Thai and Japanese flavours with a focus on fresh, sustainably sourced ingredients. The regional dishes and eclectic array of culinary delights on offer promise to tantalise the taste buds. The Gallery Open from mid morning til mid evening, The Gallery provides an elegant setting in which to indulge in refined pleasure and where the signature afternoon tea experience is a must-do. An exquisite assortment of confections and other delectable offerings are available, along with the artfully concocted classic cocktails of expert mixologists. Den Kyoto This funky social bar welcomes night owls with upbeat music, and is open from 4pm til 11pm. An array of bespoke spirit-forward libations and rare spirits are on offer, along with tasty bites. Tea Salon Known as ‘chanoyu’ or ‘sado’ in Japanese, the tea ceremony is a highly ritualised way of preparing and serving matcha (green tea). A city deeply connected to the history and cultural significance of this practice, Kyoto is one of the best places to experience a tea ceremony and the Tea Salon at Dusit Thani Kyoto is the ideal setting in which to do so. By appointment only and led by a tea master hailing from Kyoto, it is a memorable exploration into Japan’s legendary tea culture. Remarkable Cultural Experiences An impressive choice of unique local experiences gives Dusit Thani Kyoto guests the chance to explore the fascinating history and modern culture of Kyoto and the surrounding region. Kyoto is home to no less than 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and from the hotel it’s easy to travel to Kiyomizu Temple, Nijo Castle, Toji Temple and Nishi-Honganji Temple and other famous locations. Organic tea picking can be enjoyed in Wazuka, a nearby town with an 800-year history of producing exquisite Uji tea. As can be vegetable harvesting in Ohara, a short drive away. At the hotel itself, there are maiko performance afternoons and tea ceremonies to enjoy, and demonstrations on traditional Japanese art forms like kumihimo, kintsugi, shakyo, wagashi and origami. There are also experiences designed for families and younger guests, such as nurie colouring and hiragana drawing. Inspirational Spa Offerings The signature Devarana Wellness centre, an indoor swimming pool, and 24-hour fitness centre with cardio machines and free weights as well as a yoga studio provide plenty of opportunity for guests to relax, rejuvenate and replenish during their stay. At Devarana Wellness a unique fusion of ancient Thai massage therapies and traditional Japanese rituals is delivered by expert therapists. Signature treatments include the 90-minute Ancient Thai Massage, 60-minute Green Tea Body Scrub and 120-minute Body & Mind Synergy package. Holistic wellness, meditation and skin health facials are available, and heat and water experiences are included with all Devarana spa services. Visit the hotel’s website to book a stay now or to learn more about the unique and personalised blend of Thai hospitality and Japanese tradition on offer at Dusit Thani Kyoto.
CapitaLand Ascott Trust’s Citadines Karasuma-Gojo Kyoto divested for JPY6.18 billion
CapitaLand Ascott Trust (CLAS) divested Citadines Karasuma-Gojo Kyoto in Japan to an unrelated third party for about JPY6.18 billion. The 124-unit property was divested at 40.1 percent above book value at an exit EBITDA yield of about 0.3 percent. Net proceeds of the divestment are JPY4.4 billion and CLAS has recognised a net gain of JPY0.9 billion. Serena Teo, chief executive of CLAS’ management firms CapitaLand Ascott Trust Management Limited and CapitaLand Ascott Business Trust Management Pte Ltd, said: “The divestment of Citadines Karasuma-Gojo Kyoto is in line with [our] active portfolio reconstitution strategy. The mature property has reached the optimal stage of its lifecycle. We plan to redeploy the divestment proceeds into higher-yielding investments to further grow our returns to Stapled Securityholders.” At present, Japan remains a key market for CLAS and is one of the company’s strongest performing markets. In light of the divestment, CLAS will continue to seek opportunities to strengthen its portfolio in the East Asian country. Other developments Teo added that the recently announced proposal to acquire lyf Funan Singapore also demonstrates CLAS’ ability to enhance value for Stapled Securityholders by using proceeds from its divestment of Citadines Mount Sophia Singapore at an exit EBITDA yield of 3.2 percent towards the proposed acquisition of lyf Funan Singapore at a higher yield of 4.7 percent. In the first half of this year, CLAS also completed the acquisition of Teriha Ocean Stage, a rental housing property in Fukuoka, Japan, and fully acquired Standard at Columbia, a student accommodation property in the United States of America. Teo said of these: “The acquisitions will strengthen our income stream, creating sustainable value for our Stapled Securityholders.”
Dusit Thani Kyoto
Dusit Thani Kyoto, 466 Nishinotōinchō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan Japan
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