The doors to the Land of the Rising Sun finally reopened on the 12th of October. After almost three years of having its borders closed-off due to the pandemic, Japan now eases its border-control requirements to welcome foreign independent travellers back to tour its popular destinations.
With the nation reinstating its full-scale tourism plan, the Banyan Tree Group is rolling out its “The First Trip” campaign to Japan, inviting guests from 68 countries (whitelisted regions by Japan) to vacation in their two newly opened hotels in Kyoto – Garrya Nijo Castle and Dhawa Yura.
The Banyan Tree Group is revered for infusing an immaculate and restorative energy into each of their sanctuaries around the globe with a goal to rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit of weary travellers. The multi-branded hospitality group carries a diverse portfolio of hostels, resorts, spas and the likes, all embracing the same founding ethos that is centred on wellbeing and sustainability.
And in light of this, both of “The First Trip” Japan edition packages are focused on offering tourists with unique experiences that distil the essence of Kyoto. But before diving deeper into what they’re offering, let’s take a glimpse at the hotels themselves.
GARRYA NIJO CASTLE KYOTO
According to the Group, the Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto is a new concept that presents a distinct approach to wellbeing through simplistic design and amenities that recharge and rejuvenate the soul of whoever that walks through their doors. The 25-room hotel is located front and centre of the Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site first raised in 1603 during the Tokugawa Shogunate.
The entire hotel is a zen-themed adobe that offers a meditative view of lush greenery from every angle. Furnished with a contemporary design inside, the blend of the two elements creates the perfect harmony of a modernly zen environment that is perfect for sophisticated travellers looking to escape the chaos of everyday life.
In line with the theme of this sanctuary, the hotel harbours a Wellbeing Room for guests to partake in restorative exercises and yoga amidst tranquillity. And to up the worldly factor, the hotel’s flagship French restaurant, Singular, also cooks up a bespoke seasonal cuisine that will certainly whet your appetite at first sight.
As part of “The First Trip” package, guests can enjoy 15% off accommodation on top of their Best Available Rate, receive 2 complimentary tickets to the UNESCO World Heritage site, a complimentary chauffeur service between Kyoto Station and the hotel, freeflow minibar service, and receive 10% savings on dining at the hotel’s signature restaurant.
DHAWA YURA KYOTO
Next stop, Dhawa Yura Kyoto hotel.
This is the first Dhawa property in Japan and is located in Sanjo, which happens to be right in the heart of Kyoto. It is here where temples clouded with incense smoke, centuries-old shrines, museums filled with precious artefacts and world-class shopping and dining all vie for one’s attention.
With its serene setting on the Kamo River right by the iconic Sanjo Ohashi bridge, this 138-room boutique hotel offers a convenient base from which travellers can explore the many sights of the city. The interior design and artworks within the hotel are reminiscent of the Edo period in Japan.
Guests booking a stay at Dhawa under the Group’s “The First Trip” package will also enjoy 15% off accommodation on top of their Best Available Rate, receive two tickets to the Kyoto Public Baths, a complimentary welcome drink at the bar & lounge, get 30% off on spa treatments at 8LEMENTS, and 10% savings when they dine-in at the hotel.
If you’re already packing your bags and booking your flight tickets to Japan, don’t forget to visit the Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto or Dhawa Yura Kyoto websites to make your reservation. Alternatively, you can also email them at [email protected] or [email protected] to make a booking or send in an inquiry for your travels.
