Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto Opens with Interiors by Andre Fu

The newest addition to Kyoto’s hotel scene Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto has been developed by an award-winning team of specialists, masters in their own fields, with Hong Kong-based André Fu Studio, the only non-Japanese designer, at the helm, creating the guest rooms and public spaces.

Kyoto is a city rich with history, beautifully preserved in a particular time and place, yet distinctively modern. Embracing Japan’s beauty and Kyoto’s heritage, Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto is built on the site of the original residence of the Kitake, the executive branch of the Mitsui family, and directly faces Nijō-jo Castle in the city centre.

Fu drew his inspiration for the project from three words – authentic, mystical and artisanal – that guided him. With a deep understanding of the traditions of the former resident of the Mitsui Family, Fu’s aim was to preserve a sense of heritage, whilst overlaying it with a contemporary interpretation of Kyoto’s history.

Fu says: “From a personal note, I’ve always been fascinated with Kyoto as a city. It is a town that has stood still in time, a location that has a lot of authentic moments to embrace. I hope my design will convey the heritage of Kyoto as a city. I would like guests to experience the same sense of serenity and tranquillity that I feel when I am here.”

Kyoto itself embraces many aspects of Japanese beauty in one city; it is abundant with specialist craftsmen, from kimono artisans to sword makers, dedicating their life to a single trade. In designing the hotel, Fu worked closely with the local craftspeople and artists, to incorporate an authentic spirit of Kyoto into the hotel.