OKURA KYOTO OKAZAKI BETTEI II

A Hidden Hideaway in Quiet Corner of Okazaki

In a world where travel is more accessible than ever and nearly every destination feels well-trodden, discovering a haven of quiet luxury is a luxury in itself. That’s where Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei. comes into its own. Nestled in a quiet corner of Okazaki — home to a wealth of museums, temples, and shrines — The Okura Group’s “first small hideaway hotel” offers an intimate alternative for those seeking a more introspective, refined approach to hospitality. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by the soothing sound of trickling water. Leave your (emotional) baggage behind: peace and harmony are waiting, in both atmosphere and design.

Words by Tatiana Summers.

Blending traditional Japanese craftsmanship — such as intricate woodwork and textiles — with modern aesthetics, the five-star hotel embraces tactile elements of Japanese culture while showcasing the clean lines and muted tones of contemporary design. Large windows offer uninterrupted views of the lush garden, allowing the reception, lobby, and lounge areas to radiate light and openness, an elegant continuation of the natural world waiting on the other side.

From its architecture to its cultural experiences, the hotel is steeped in tradition. Sharing its garden - and even one of its historic walls - with the Okazaki Betsuin Temple, the property is physically and spiritually connected to an iconic symbol of Japanese culture. The garden, sprinkled with sakura and plum trees and enhanced by tranquil waters beneath a picturesque Japanese bridge, could be mistaken for a scene from Monet’s Bridge over a Pond of Water Lilies. Access is exclusive to hotel guests, further establishing the property’s unique position in Kyoto’s hospitality landscape. 

The hotel’s setting offers the chance to embark on a soul-enriching journey through Kyoto’s heritage. One of the most meaningful guest experiences is morning worship at the Okazaki Betsuin Temple — an invitation to take part in the same rituals, offerings, and prayers practiced by generations past. Guests can also experience the grace of a traditional tea ceremony or indulge in a Japanese whiskey tasting with Suntory, the legendary house of artisans pioneering fine Japanese whiskey since 1923. 

A short walk from the hotel takes you to the Philosopher’s Path - a blossom-lined canal route once walked by famed philosophy professor Nishida Kitaro. Let your mind wander as you pass temples, shrines, and museums — including Ginkaku-ji,  Otoyo Shrine, and The National Museum of Modern Art, each one a step deeper into Kyoto’s cultural tapestry. 

Sweet dreams come standard at Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei. Eight elegant suite rooms are tucked away on the property’s north side, offering panoramic views of the Okazaki Betsuin Temple and the nearby Konkai Komyo-Ji — a two-storied temple and cemetery housing a remarkable collection of artistic treasures. These suites offer a haven of Western-Japanese comfort and understated elegance: spacious beds, large bathrooms, private balconies, dual toilets, and minimalist yet welcoming living areas. Inspired by the mountain villas of Higashiyama, the rooms reflect the philosophy of wabi-sabi — beauty in imperfection —  through natural textures and details, including log pillars with Kitayama cedar. The attention to detail extends beyond design: expect delicately folded origami on your  bed, perfectly ripe Kyoto strawberries, and a fully stocked (and complimentary) bar — all part of the hotel’s understated yet unmistakable luxury..

For guests and visitors alike, the hotel’s restaurant, Nouvelle Epoque, lives up to its name. This Japanese-French fusion dining experience offers a seasonal menu of Kyoto-sourced ingredients,  expertly crafted and artfully plated. For breakfast, guests can choose between a Western-style selection (eggs, beans, pastries), a Japanese menu highlighting fresh local produce, or a harmonious blend of both . Even the table water, elegantly bottled and sourced from Kyoto’s famed Fushimi district, is a thoughtful touch that reflects the hotel’s unwavering commitment to quality.

To stay at Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei is to take a graceful step away from the crowded tourist trail Okazaki is slowly becoming. By offering exclusive, bespoke experiences while maintaining proximity to key attractions, Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei is likely the hidden sanctuary you’ve been searching for.

For more information, visit the Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei website.