Kyoto | The World's Best Westin - Kasuien

From the Westin Kyoto, take the elevator to the seventh floor, pass through the internal guest rooms and a long covered bridge to reach "Kasuien," which is, in a practical sense, a "great recluse hidden in the city."

"Kasuien," designed by Togo Murano, was built in the 1960s, centered around a white gravel courtyard, and is an important modern building in Kyoto. The guest rooms are exquisitely textured, and modern amenities are well-hidden. Despite their large size, there's no hint of awkwardness, though details and content are slightly lacking. As the number of rooms is small and it serves as an annex to the Westin, there aren't many service staff in the garden, and the team seems to be composed of women. In the early morning, watching the karesansui garden, the nakai (room attendants) in kimonos with flowers in their hair walk through the corridors, either lively or dignified, which is truly a delight to behold. When checking out, an older staff member came to handle the luggage. At first, I felt quite embarrassed and intended to politely decline, but then I changed my mind and let her. Perhaps this was the best way to show her respect.

Post by leona_ortiz_london | Jun 27, 2025