Sunrise Suites

At this point we probably don’t need to remind anyone that Kyoto is the home of all that’s ancient and traditional in Japan. And anyway, in the case of Sunrise Suites, that’s only half the story. Sure, there’s plenty of classic Japanese-style craftsmanship and design on display here, but it’s balanced by a strong current of mdern design — evident not just in the modernist typography of the Sunrise logo and the hotel’s signage, but in the lighting, fixtures, and furnishings in the rooms as well.

The headboards, crafted from hand-printed Kyo-Karakami paper, are the primary ornament in these crisp, minimalist rooms, though if you’ve got an eye for detail you’ll find every element rewards careful inspection. The layout is Western-style, but the atmosphere is classically Japanese, with latticework recalling shoji screens.

Each room comes with a kitchenette, a dining table, and a washer and dryer, and the bathrooms are spacious, featuring both baths and showers — in some ways they feel more like serviced apartments than hotel rooms. And you’ll likely make use of that kitchenette, as the only meal served is a bento-style breakfast, delivered straight to your room. Don’t worry, you’re not totally on your own — though Sunrise Suites is just across from the tranquil Toji Temple, it’s also close to Kyoto Station, with its wealth of surrounding shops and restaurants.