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The Shinmonzen
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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
TripAdvisor5.0(25)
Google
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
Guest Reviews9.6/ 10· 246 reviews
Staff
9.7
Facilities
9.8
Cleanliness
9.9
Comfort
9.9
Value for money
8.6
Location
9.4
Free WiFi
9.0

Verified guest scores via Booking.com

Top Facilities
2 restaurants
Parking
Private bathroom
Spa and wellness centre
Air conditioning
Bath
Free WiFi
Fitness centre
Facilities for disabled guests
Room service
Featured In
Best DesignBest BoutiqueBest KyotoBest JapanBest Romance
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

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Photo Gallery
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Editor Score
9.4/10
Check Availability
Booking.comExpediaTrip.comAgodaHotels.com
Average from$2400/ night
Quick Facts
LocationKyoto, Japan
Stars5-Star Hotel
Best ForBest Design, Best Boutique
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The Shinmonzen

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