The project is located in a setting that overlooks the north side of Nijo Castle. To express Nijo Castle, which has served as the historic stage for many defining moments, we set the concept as “a detached palace that connects the past and the present.” Using the inner chambers that once welcomed guests of the ruling samurai class as the core motif, we carried out the development of a small luxury hotel.

The garden was also a key theme of this project. When arriving at the porte-cochere and walking along a bamboo fence-lined narrow alley toward the entrance lobby, a panorama of the courtyard defined by a distinctive water basin opens directly before the eyes. The moss and maple garden, inspired by Gio-ji Temple in Kyoto’s Sagano area, reflects on the surface of this water basin, creating a scene that embodies Kyoto’s seasonal beauty. When night falls, the autumn leaves are further mirrored on the large polished basalt table placed in the lounge, spreading a fantastic and otherworldly scene.

The 25 spacious guest rooms also apply this concept of reflection, with the ceilings and walls around the windows finished in mirror-like texture so that the inner courtyard and Nijo Castle can be used as borrowed scenery in the experience. Through this spatial design, guests can enjoy a refined retreat-like stay where Kyoto’s tradition and modern influences blend, experiencing a space that reflects the city’s timeless history and renewed identity.