Prince Smart Inn Kyoto Sanjo

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• Norton Liang

  20 Oct 2026 See More

  Affordable prices
  Enthusiastic staff
  A hotel in an excellent location

  The lobby design of Prince Smart Inn Kyoto Sanjo combines modern smart technology with traditional Kyoto aesthetics, in an overall style described as a “modern machiya.”
  The main features of the lobby design are as follows:
  1. Design concept: Learning from the past
  Designed by GARDE, the hotel’s core concept blends elements of Kyoto’s traditional kyo-machiya townhouses with a modern industrial feel.
  Entrance and facade: The hotel entrance is built with solid wood and has a fresh woody scent. The exterior incorporates the latticework characteristic of Kyoto machiya, with understated, refined lines.
  Contrasting materials: The space combines cool exposed concrete and metal decking with the warmth of century-old wood, such as the large communal table, creating an atmosphere that transcends time.
  2. Smart spatial layout
  The lobby, restaurant, and check-in area have an open, integrated design that enhances the sense of space and functionality.
  Digital map screen: A large interactive digital display near the entrance provides sightseeing and map information for the surrounding area.
  Self-service facilities: The lobby is equipped with automated check-in/check-out machines and self-service luggage lockers, emphasizing seamless smart services.
  3. Local art and decor
  The interior is decorated with works by several artists who have close ties to Kyoto:
  Gold leaf and collage art: The walls feature artwork combining gold leaf with modern collage.
  Woodblock prints of the Four Guardians: These incorporate motifs of the “Four Guardians” that protect Kyoto in the four directions—the Azure Dragon, White Tiger, Vermilion Bird, and Black Tortoise.
  Kamo River-inspired tiered seating: The tiered seating in the lobby was inspired by the banks of Kyoto’s Kamo River, providing guests with a relaxing space to rest and socialize.
  4. Functional facilities
  There is an Amenity Bar in one corner of the lobby where guests can pick up items such as pajamas and toothbrushes themselves.
  Prince Smart Inn Kyoto Sanjo received an iF Design Award!
  The hotel’s interior design, created by GARDE, won an award in the Interior Architecture category of the “iF DESIGN AWARD 2023.”
  The hotel has also received other design awards, including:
  2022 Kyoto Global Design Awards
  Silver Award at the MUSE Design Awards 2023

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