In a peaceful neighborhood in the Shimogyo district, at the edge of central Kyoto awaits a beautiful, unassuming gate intriguing one to step in. The entrance might be easy to miss but for those who know, it opens a whole other world behind it – one of the luxury ryokan Nazuna Tsubaki St.
The hotel consists of an entire alley of renovated old machiyas, which were originally built over 110 years ago. This private escape offers a quaint atmosphere, that is reminiscent of the old geisha neighborhoods. Beautiful wooden facades accompanied with moody lantern lights – and the feel of time standing still. Nostalgia, privacy, and calm at its best.
Going into Tsubaki Street feels like stepping into a movie, a small nostalgic universe in one alley – truly inviting guests to stay and be absorbed in it.
Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St. – Through the Elements
The rooms, accommodating 2-3 guests, come in five different themes. “Take” (bamboo), “Mizu” (water), “Iwa” (stone), “Hana” (flower), and “Ha” (leaf). All are individual and uniquely follow the themes to the very last detail. From the overall décor to art pieces and glassware a little escape into beautifully designed representations of each theme. So if you are a fan of a more natural and earthy feel, ask for the beautiful bamboo room. But if you feel most at home on a cliff overlooking the sea, the Iwa or Mizu room might be what you are looking for.
The stay provides the best of both worlds – feel of 100 years of history but a modern take on comfortability and amenities. Western-style beds will ensure a good night’s sleep even for anyone more unacquainted with the tatami & futon sleeping. A truly luxurious yet homey setting, with the highlight of their signature semi-open-air baths – you really feel like you don’t want to leave.
Attention to Detail
Nazuna Tsubaki St. takes pride in highlighting craftsmanship and design and is currently hosting a pop-up exhibition “Find My Favorite Japan: Curated Japanese Design”, on until May 9th. Joint showcase of different Japanese artists with another clever take on mixing of traditional and modern. New ideas showcased from all around Japan, such as the Toyama hailing “Re-Bear Project” with the aim to bring back a re-design of the decor traditionally seen in many households in Japan. Beautiful Oita Usuki pottery, presenting another form of craftmanship sadly dwindling away or Mobje brand featuring Hiroshima hatters repurposing their millinery skills to create vases – and many more, all available to purchase. The second part of the exhibition will feature jewelry, hats, and other fashion accessories from brands such as Kitchibe, Fujii Seibo and Yuzen.
Dining at Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St.
The lobby, which also doubles as a lounge offers free drinks and snacks for guests to start the night (from 3 to 9 pm), and Wagyu Ryotei Bungo, the restaurant on the premises, invites guests to indulge in long form. The restaurant focuses on the less-known but high-quality, delicious Oita Wagyu. Showcasing the premium ingredient in different takes from beef sashimi and sushi to shabu shabu, a beef lover’s dream.
As expected from a luxury ryokan, omotenashi plays a crucial role – a favorite detail the delivery of the most luscious egg sandwich right to your door for a late-night bite. In fact, the food is so good one might just want to stay within the walls of Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki, which of course would be a shame as Kyoto has so much to offer.
Best of Both Worlds
Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St. keeps you safely away from the tourist masses, but still within a stone’s throw of all the main sights and shops. Offering the best of both worlds, this stay is not for someone looking for the old-school ryokan experience – but perfect for someone who wants the traditional Kyoto magic with a luxury touch and modern comforts.
Whether you are taking reprise in between your Kyoto exploration or opt to be cocooned on Tsubaki street your whole stay – you will find an oasis of quiet luxury and atmosphere to keep you mesmerized throughout your stay.
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Address
838 Bomoncho, Omiya Nishiiru, Takatsuji-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto city
