Hotel SOWAKA Gion in Kyoto is the perfect getaway for those seeking the luxury of a traditional Japanese Ryokan with modern comforts. Located in the historic area of Gion, Hotel SOWAKA represents the best of life in Japan; an effortless blend between traditional craftsmanship and modern design. We had the pleasure of visiting the team at SOWAKA in July of this year, and we truly enjoyed them showing us around their property. To learn more about their hotel and Kyoto, we asked them to sit down with us for an interview.
A breathtaking view of SOWAKA Hotel’s garden – Photo Credit: SOWAKA Hotel
Thank you for taking the time to talk to us. We loved seeing your hotel last year. Could you tell our readers a bit about how you got started?
Thank you for visiting us—it’s a pleasure to reconnect. Sowaka opened its doors in 2019 in the heart of Gion, Kyoto’s most iconic cultural district. The original building was once a historic ryotei (traditional fine-dining house), which we carefully restored and
reimagined as a serene luxury retreat. From the beginning, our vision has been to create a sanctuary where timeless Kyoto tradition meets the refined sensibility of modern luxury hospitality.
From the outside, SOWAKA Hotel is a vision of a time gone by – Photo Credit: SOWAKA Hotel
What inspired you when creating SOWAKA’s profile?
“Sowaka” signifies a Sanskrit term meaning ‘blessing’ or ‘happiness’—an expression of well-being that lies at the heart of our vision. From the very beginning, we aimed to create a space where guests experience not only comfort, but a sense of calm and inner peace—a personal hermitage. This spirit is woven into every aspect of our design and hospitality.
The relaxing ambiance of one of SOWAKA’s guest suites – Photo Credit: SOWAKA Hotel
Which aspects of traditional Kyoto can be seen within the property?
Sowaka is deeply rooted in Kyoto’s culture. Guests will find traditional elements in the sukiya-style architecture, such as hand-carved wood, shoji screens, bamboo latticework, and serene inner gardens. We also embrace Kyoto’s refined sense of aesthetics—quiet elegance, seasonal sensitivity, and a deep respect for craftsmanship are present throughout the property.
What was important for you when designing the hotel?
Creating a sense of harmony was paramount. We collaborated with local artisans and designers to ensure that the building’s heritage was preserved while integrating subtle modern comforts. Our designer wanted to ensure that the space didn’t feel like a hotel, but rather a beautifully curated private residence that honors Kyoto’s spirit.
A beautiful example of SOWAKA’s Kyo-Kaiseki cuisine – Credit: SOWAKA Hotel
You also have an amazing restaurant at the hotel, Gion Loka. Please tell us more about what kind of food you prepare.
At Gion Loka, we offer an impeccable kaiseki-style dining journey that combines the precision of authentic Japanese culinary tradition with the elegance of modern creativity. Each dish showcases locally sourced seasonal ingredients, presented with thoughtful attention to both flavor and aesthetics. Our chef is also exceptionally attentive to guests’ individual dietary needs—be it vegetarian, vegan, or allergy-related—ensuring a deeply personal and satisfying experience.
You create Kyoto cuisine with a modern flair. What does that entail?
Our approach to Kyoto cuisine respects the foundations of Kyo-Kaiseki—delicate flavors, seasonality, and aesthetic harmony—while allowing space for creative expression. Rather than simply reinventing tradition, we reinterpret it with subtle modern touches, such as unique ingredient pairings or contemporary presentation. The essence remains deeply Kyoto, but the experience feels fresh, refined, and responsive to the expectations of today’s global guests.
Why do you think people should visit Kyoto when they come to Japan? And what season do you recommend?
Kyoto offers an unparalleled immersion into Japan’s cultural heart, with centuries-old temples, exquisite gardens, and refined cuisine. Every season reveals a different side of the city, but we particularly recommend spring for its cherry blossoms or autumn when the leaves transform Kyoto into a palette of red and gold. Both are deeply moving times to visit.
One of the many tempting, handcrafted dishes you can try at SOWAKA – Credit: SOWAKA Hotel
What food would you suggest visitors try while in Kyoto?
Definitely try Kaiseki, Kyoto’s traditional multi-course cuisine, as well as simpler local dishes like yudofu (tofu hot pot), obanzai (Kyoto-style home cooking), and sweets like namagashi and yatsuhashi. Each one tells a story of Kyoto’s culture and season.
Last but not least, what do you think makes your hotel different from the other ones in the area?
At Sowaka, we believe true luxury lies not in extravagance, but in the experience—an experience shaped not by location or design alone, but by the genuine hospitality of our team. Guided by the vision of ‘Just be myself,’ we create an atmosphere where guests can feel completely at ease, as if in their own private hermitage. Every moment is thoughtfully crafted, allowing each guest to reconnect with themselves in a deeply personal way.
We are so excited for our readers to get a glimpse of what Kyoto luxury entails. Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
Thank you so much for the opportunity to share our story. At Sowaka, we believe that Kyoto’s true luxury lies not just in its beauty or traditions, but in the quiet moments of reflection it inspires. We hope to welcome your readers one day, not just as travelers, but as individuals seeking something meaningful. Whether it’s to reconnect, unwind, or simply ‘just be myself,’ Sowaka is a place where time gently slows, and the spirit finds rest.
Thank you so much for giving us some of your time and teaching us about your exquisite hotel. We appreciate your insight into what ‘luxury’ means in Kyoto, and how SOWAKA was designed to reflect that luxury through design and tradition.
Follow “SOWAKA’’ on:
Website: https://sowaka.com/eng/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sowaka.hotel/
Featured Photo Credit: SOWAKA Hotel
