The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto  

On the banks of the Kamogawa River in central Kyoto, an urban riverside sanctuary with sweeping views of the Higashiyama Mountains. Minutes on foot from Kawaramachi, Pontocho Alley, Nishiki Market, Kiyomizu Temple, Nijo Castle and the Kyoto Imperial Palace.

This luxury urban resort has 134 guest rooms and suites that blend contemporary comfort with distinctive Japanese motifs. Rooms are air-conditioned and feature minibars, flat-screen LCD TVs, iPod/DVD players, safes and deep soaking bathtubs with separate showers and designer toiletries. Riverside rooms deliver those coveted mountain-and-river views.

Full-service spa offering massages, body treatments and facials, plus an indoor pool and sauna for total downtime. A 24-hour fitness center and yoga area keep your routine on track, while babysitting (surcharge), wedding services and a picnic area add practical touches. Wake up to river breezes and step straight into Kyoto’s historic streets.

Complimentary wired and wireless internet (high-speed), four meeting rooms and limo/town-car service. Express check-in and check-out, plus laundry/dry cleaning and concierge services to keep business smooth.

Four restaurants and bars, including Mizuki, which specializes in authentic Japanese cuisine, plus a coffee shop/café and a bar/lounge. Room service is available and full breakfasts are offered daily.