In 1886, entrepreneur Auguste Fauchon opened his first gourmet food shop in Paris, a culinary treasure known for its fine-quality ingredients sampled across numerous boutiques, restaurants and cafes. Fast-forward to 2024: the pulse of Paris beats in the heart of Kyoto amid the city's traditional architecture, with the inception of Fauchon’s second hotel, Fauchon L'Hotel Kyoto. It is more than just a European-style hotel in Japan’s cultural capital; it is a unique blend of European and Japanese influences.
Words by Leigh Maynard.
Fauchon L'Hotel Kyoto celebrates the cultural essence of its home city, serving as both a hotel and a healing space. Its design embodies the fusion of East and West, paying homage to Parisian glamour while simultaneously integrating Japanese hospitality. The hotel harmonizes the two cities, merging their cultures into one relaxing and refined space. Guests can also indulge in culinary delights that celebrate Japanese heritage and the sumptuous flavours of French gastronomy.
As one of the city's taller buildings, the hotel's panoramic views set it apart. The Kamo River snakes through the city below, weaving among temples, cobbled streets and the walkways of geishas. From the heights of the Grand Café restaurant on the top floor, guests can savour delicious treasures like the citrusy Bisou Bisou orange cake, layers of millefeuille, or a mango-yuzu tart while enjoying sweeping views across Gion.
Fauchon's European aesthetics permeate the entire experience, from the pink palette on Nishiki pillows and bathroom accessories to the packaging of the French patisseries. These colourful details serve as a thread of excellence that runs through every element of the hotel. There is even a personal bar where guests can stop and sip Kyoto’s exceptional green tea, while the hotel's Tea Room is reserved for more formal occasions. If Auguste Fauchon were here today, he would undoubtedly delight in the culinary treats, appreciate the meticulous standards and admire the exemplary design details while taking in the exceptional views offered by the beautiful hotel. He would be a very proud man, indeed.
Discover this piece inside the Japan Chapter at The Silk Road Issue 12
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