The Imperial Hotel, Kyoto has joined The Leading Hotels of the World, the largest collection of independent luxury hotels on April 1st, 2025.
The Imperial Hotel, Kyoto is a hotel that will preserve and integrate the Yasaka Kaikan, originally built in 1936 as a theater and has long been cherished as a gathering place for the local community. This legendary landmark is a national tangible cultural property and stands on the grounds of the Gion Kobu Kaburenjyo.
The Leading Hotels of the World boasts the world’s largest collection of independent luxury hotels, with over 400 luxury hotels in more than 80 countries. Membership is subject to strict criteria and only carefully selected hotels that meet a wide range of criteria are eligible for membership, with Imperial Hotel, Kyoto being the ninth hotel in Japan to meet these criteria. New candidate member hotels are screened annually and only around 5% of applications are approved.
Imperial Hotel, Tokyo, one of the Imperial Hotel brands, has been a member of The Leading Hotels of the World since 1987.
We are delighted to announce that Imperial Hotel, Kyoto—sister hotel to LHW’s Imperial Hotel,
Tokyo, will be a member of The Leading Hotels of the World when it debuts in 2026. Nestled within the iconic Gion Kobu Kaburenjo—the cultural heart of Kyoto—this extraordinary transformation will breathe new life into Yasaka Kaikan, a treasured 90-year-old landmark renowned for its architectural splendor. A seamless fusion of heritage and modern sophistication, Imperial Hotel, Kyoto will embody the artistry, elegance, and authenticity that define The Leading Hotels of the World. Deniz Omurgonulsen, Vice President, Member Experience, The Leading Hotels of the World.
About The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd.
In 1928, 38 independent hoteliers came together to create LHW which now comprises more than 400 hotels in over 80 countries, making it the largest collection of independent luxury hotels. Since its inception, the Company has carefully curated a selection of distinctive hotels, resorts, inns, chalets, villas, and safari camps, from the snow-capped Alps of Europe to the African veldt, to share them with adventurous souls who seek the remarkably uncommon.
The LHW community is made of exceptional individuals, united by a passion for the surprising discoveries and details that come with every travel experience. LHW hoteliers are artisans of hospitality whose expertise, commitment to excellence and individual flair allows them to create story-worthy moments for their guests. It is these authentic, individualized moments, combined with the warm hightouch service these hoteliers and their team provide, that keeps discerning travelers returning again and again.
LHW’s collection covers the globe and promises a broad range of destinations and unique experiences, enhanced by LHW’s tiered guest loyalty program, Leaders Club. From converted former palaces and countryside retreats run by the same families for generations, to gleaming skyscrapers in dynamic urban centers, serene private island escapes, glamorous tented camps – and beyond – travelers are invited to explore, find inspiration, and experience unforgettable travel moments.
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