SOWAKA is more than just a hotel, it’s an experience that takes the soul on a journey to peace, tranquility, and an understanding of the self.
Located in the famous geisha district of Gion and adjacent to the iconic Yasaka Shrine, SOWAKA beckons its guests to embark on a journey of mind, body, and soul. It can be difficult to spot this small luxury hotel in the camouflage of Kyoto’s traditional wooden structures, but that’s what it takes to achieve the level of privacy, peace, and purity that SOWAKA strives for.
Stepping into Tranquility
From the moment you enter through the noren (traditional Japanese curtain), you will feel like you’ve entered a new dimension.
A stony pathway runs through lush green gardens decorated with vintage Japanese lamps. Thin lines of wood decorate the walls on each side as bamboo reinforces the roof structures above.
Despite its location on a popular street by the bustling Yasaka Shrine, all thoughts of modern civilization begin to dissipate once you’ve entered SOWAKA.
An immediate sense of tranquility overcomes the senses as the mind braces itself for bliss, making space for a deeper feeling of self-reflection.
Immersive Japanese Culture
Guests of SOWAKA feel an immediate embrace of Japanese culture the moment they remove their shoes before stepping on the authentic beige tatami mats at the entrance. Traditional Japanese footwear known as geta is laid out for guests to wear when they go outside.
The morning light seeps through the traditional shoji windows as the humble staff welcomes you into the building. Greeting you with a courteous irasshaimase (“welcome”) and offering to take your shoes for you, a feeling of warmth is invoked in the heart. Guests from all over the world are made to feel right at home, despite being very far from it.
Beautiful Lounge Area
SOWAKA is a place where every corner has been thought through very carefully. The lounge area is not your typical hotel lobby, but a work of art in and of itself. Decorated with interesting cultural artifacts such as priceless vases and bonsai trees and furnished with comfortable soft sofas and tatami mats, it’s easy to feel a sense of soothing calmness as gentle music can be heard in the background.
A large glass window provides a crystal clear view into the front gardens, creating a fascinating illustration that brings an immersive sense of nature into the modern lounge area. Guests enjoy spending quality time here with a soothing cup of coffee or tea ordered from the restaurant, taking in the calm ambiance that SOWAKA prides itself on.
Ambient Hallways
The ever-present feeling of tranquil bliss stays by your side even as you stroll through the hallways of SOWAKA’s main building. As you walk along the wooden floors, you can enjoy aesthetic garden views through the windows of the courtyard.
Indeed, SOWAKA is a hotel that captures moments in time. One moment you will find yourself reflecting on the past and the way things once were, and the next you will ponder the possibilities of a dream-like future. And yet, despite all these feelings being invoked, you will remain fiercely in the present as the beauty of SOWAKA captivates your utmost attention.
Modern meets Tradition
The theme of past, present, and future persists as you enter the guest rooms at SOWAKA. A contemporary architectural design is harmoniously infused with elements of traditional Japanese housing, creating an interesting dynamic of old and new.
Whether it’s the combination of tatami mats with modern mattresses or vintage Japanese teapots with Nespresso machines, these rooms are like a long-awaited union of modern and traditional times, bringing together our most cherished moments of human history.
A Place for All Seasons
No matter the season, SOWAKA always welcomes guests to an unforgettable experience all year round. Instead of traveling long and far to experience the seasonal beauty of Japan, you can enjoy it from the comfort of your hotel room. Whether it’s the golden leaves of autumn or the pink cherry blossoms of spring, snippets of Kyoto’s natural beauty are perfectly captured through SOWAKA’s aesthetic framing and diligent gardening.
Authentic Amenities
Authentic Japanese sweets, premium matcha green tea, and meditation bells are just a few of the many amenities provided by SOWAKA that allow you to embrace Japanese culture and traditional practices. Bath amenities such as soaps and skincare sets are also available, offering quality products from Kazura Sei, a long-established beauty company that’s been in the business since 1865.
Top-Class Dining Experience
Gion Loka is SOWAKA’s hotel restaurant where guests can enjoy the unforgettable taste of authentic Japanese cuisine of the highest excellence. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering guests a choice between Japanese and Western cuisines and catering to all dietary requirements.
Executive Chef Takaaki Kato brings to the kitchen his elite culinary experience, cultivated through a track record working at various locations, including a Michelin-star restaurant in Tokyo. His expertise lies in the area of Kyoto cuisine, where he and his team craft exclusive dishes using the best seasonal ingredients sourced from the rich natural environment of the prefecture.
Traditional Japanese-style Bar
One of SOWAKA’s most beloved features is their in-house Japanese-style bar. Designed to look and feel like a traditional izakaya where guests are seated on the tatami mats and served drinks on a low-standing wooden table, you might feel as though you’re having a drink with the shogun in Edo Japan.
The hospitable bartenders are always happy to recommend the best drinks to their guests, working hard to make amazing cocktail mixes that suit your tastes. Multilingual staff members make you feel right at home with their extensive experience conversing with guests from all over the world!
Scenic Rooftop Views
If you’re more of an outdoor person, you will love SOWAKA’s rooftop area where you can enjoy scenic views of Kyoto’s Higashiyama mountains. When the weather is good, you can feel a gentle breeze at this high altitude, the perfect conditions for spending some quality time with a loved one over a nice beverage.
Ideal Location!
While it’s easy to forget about your Japan trip itinerary when you’re fully immersed in the hospitality of SOWAKA, it’s great to know that you’re still in the heart of Kyoto and close to so many famous attractions.
The beautiful and tranquil Maruyama Park, the vibrant Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and the scenic Kamo River are all within walking distance. And of course, SOWAKA’s friendly concierge team is always happy to help you arrange transportation wherever you need to go!
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!