The Shinmonzen
Mr & Mrs Smith — Smith Hotel Awards 2022Wallpaper* Design Awards 2022 — Best New Hotel

The Shinmonzen

Gion-Shinmonzen, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto·
9.4 / 10
Mr & Mrs Smith — Smith Hotel Awards 2022
Wallpaper* Design Awards 2022 — Best New Hotel
Hotel · Gion-Shinmonzen, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto

Designed by Tadao Ando in dialogue with hospitality consultant Paddy McKillen, The Shinmonzen is nine suites set in board-marked concrete along Gion's quietest stretch of the Shirakawa stream. The geometry is unmistakably Ando — long horizontal planes, raked light, courtyards framed like Noh stages — but the interiors are dressed with Pierre Yovanovitch furniture and contemporary art, including pieces by Wim Wenders and Damien Hirst. Each suite is sized like a full apartment, with sliding shōji opening onto the river or a private garden. Restaurant Jean-Georges takes the ground floor.

At a Glance235 Nishino-cho, Shinmonzen-dori, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0088, Japan
City
Kyoto
Country
Japan
Star Rating
5 Stars
Editor Score
9.4 / 10
Price Range
Luxury
Region
Asia
Google
4.9(66)
Why We Love It
Tadao Ando architecture, only nine suites
Pierre Yovanovitch interiors, museum-grade art
Restaurant Jean-Georges on the ground floor
Shirakawa stream-front in the heart of Gion
Private gardens with select suites
Best For
Luxury travelersCouplesBusiness executives
Nearby
Gion Shirakawa District1 min walk

A beautifully preserved historic district with traditional wooden machiya houses, tea houses, and the Shirakawa Canal.

Yasaka Shrine10 min walk

A famous Shinto shrine, known for its vibrant festivals and beautiful architecture, especially at night.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple20 min walk or 10 min drive

A historic Buddhist temple with a large wooden stage offering panoramic views of Kyoto.

Hanamikoji Street5 min walk

The heart of Gion, famous for its traditional teahouses and geisha sightings.

Kenninji Temple7 min walk

One of Kyoto's oldest Zen temples, featuring beautiful gardens and impressive artwork.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the check-in time at The Shinmonzen?

+

Does The Shinmonzen have a pool?

+

What restaurants are at The Shinmonzen?

+

Is The Shinmonzen good for families?

+

How far is The Shinmonzen from the airport?

+

Is parking available at The Shinmonzen?

+

What is the cancellation policy at The Shinmonzen?

+

Are pets allowed at The Shinmonzen?

+
Photo Gallery
The Shinmonzen — Photo 1
Photo 1
The Shinmonzen — Photo 2
Photo 2
The Shinmonzen — Photo 3
Photo 3
The Shinmonzen — Photo 4
+6View all photos
Editor Score
9.4/10
Average from$2400/ night
Quick Facts
LocationKyoto, Japan
Stars5-Star Hotel
Best ForBest Design, Best Boutique
Save this hotel

Keep track of the hotels that catch your eye. Your wishlist is stored privately on this device — no sign-in required.

The Shinmonzen

From $2400 / night