Marriott International has officially announced a landmark project that will elevate Japan’s luxury hospitality scene to unprecedented heights. In 2028, Kyoto, the nation’s cultural heart, will become home to Japan’s first-ever Ritz-Carlton Reserve, an exclusive brand representing the pinnacle of the Marriott portfolio. This development signals a new era for ultra-luxury travel in the Kansai region, promising an experience that is both deeply authentic and impeccably modern.
The Context: Kansai’s Booming Luxury Market
This announcement comes at a time of significant growth for Japan’s tourism sector. In 2023, Japan welcomed over 25 million international visitors, with tourism spending reaching a record-breaking ¥5.3 trillion. A key driver of this growth is the high-net-worth travel segment, where visitors seek not just accommodation, but unique, immersive, and highly personalized cultural experiences.
Kyoto is already a competitive arena for world-class luxury hotels, with brands like Aman, Park Hyatt, and Four Seasons establishing a strong presence. However, the introduction of a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a game-changer. The Reserve brand is a distinct collection of intimate, one-of-a-kind resorts located in carefully selected, exotic corners of the globe. With far fewer properties than the standard Ritz-Carlton, each Reserve is designed to be a rare and private sanctuary, making its arrival in Kyoto a statement of unparalleled prestige. The timing is also strategic, capitalizing on the heightened global interest in the region following the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo.
A Glimpse into the Future: Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Kyoto
The new property is poised to be more than just a hotel; it will be an intimate retreat woven into the fabric of the city. Here’s what we know about this highly anticipated project:
An Authentic “Kyo-machiya” Experience
The resort will be developed through the meticulous restoration and renovation of traditional Kyo-machiya—historic wooden townhouses that define Kyoto’s iconic cityscape. This approach ensures that the property offers an authentic sense of place, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the architectural and cultural heritage of Kyoto while enjoying the brand’s legendary service. The focus will be on creating a private, serene environment, a stark contrast to larger, more conventional luxury hotels.
Hyper-Personalization Through AI
Setting a new technological benchmark, the Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Kyoto will feature a state-of-the-art, AI-driven booking and concierge system. This technology aims to provide a deeply personalized guest experience, anticipating needs and curating bespoke itineraries, dining reservations, and cultural activities. This fusion of ancient tradition with cutting-edge technology will cater to the most discerning global travelers who expect seamless and intuitive service.
The Ripple Effect: What This Means for Kansai and Osaka
The opening of Japan’s first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Kyoto is expected to create significant positive impacts that extend beyond the ancient capital.
Elevating the Entire Kansai Region
The property will act as a powerful magnet for the world’s wealthiest travelers, further cementing Kansai’s reputation as a top-tier global destination. The economic benefits will be substantial, as these guests are likely to spend significantly on fine dining, exclusive cultural tours, high-end shopping, and private transportation throughout the region.
A Gateway to Osaka’s Charms
For us at Osakaa, this development is particularly exciting. While Kyoto offers serene cultural immersion, Osaka provides a vibrant, dynamic contrast with its world-renowned culinary scene, energetic nightlife, and unparalleled shopping. Guests staying at the Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Kyoto will inevitably use Osaka as a key part of their Kansai itinerary. They will travel from Kansai International Airport (KIX) and are likely to venture into Osaka for day trips or extended stays to experience its unique urban energy. This creates a symbiotic relationship where Kyoto’s ultra-luxury appeal drives high-value tourism directly to Osaka’s doorstep.
The project is set to not only redefine luxury in Kyoto but also to boost the prestige and economic vitality of the entire Kansai region. As 2028 approaches, the world will be watching as this new chapter in Japanese hospitality unfolds.
