HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO in Japan named in the list of THE WORLD’S 50 BEST HOTELS 2025

Kyoto, Japan – HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO has been named in the global ranking of The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025. The third edition of The World’s 50 Best Hotels has been announced at a captivating awards ceremony in London and features industry-defining hotels spanning six continents worldwide.

This evening's awards ceremony once again united the global travel and hospitality community to celebrate the world's best hotels. Held at London's iconic Old Billingsgate on the banks of the River Thames, the event showcased exceptional hotel experiences that will inspire consumers, travelers and hoteliers around the globe.

Since opening in 2020, HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO has embodied the philosophy of “Embracing Japan’s Beauty,” blending tradition with modern luxury beside UNESCO-listed Nijo-jo Castle. Guests enter through a 300-year-old gate into 160 refined rooms, many with natural hot spring baths. Culinary highlights include TOKI, led by Bocuse d’Or 2027 Japan representative Chef Tetsuya Asano, and FORNI Italian dining. With a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating since its debut, the hotel offers world-class hospitality and rich cultural immersion.

Emma Sleight, Head of Content for The World’s 50 Best Hotels, says: “We’re delighted to return to London for the third edition of The World’s 50 Best Hotels. It’s an honour to gather so many leading voices in travel, hospitality and hotels – and to celebrate the very best. Our warmest congratulations go to every hotel on this year’s list, each of which has clearly made a lasting impression on our newly expanded Academy of travel experts. We hope 2025’s list sparks inspiration for travellers as they plan their next trip.”

Message from Yoshihito KASEDA, General Manager at HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO

We are truly proud and honored to be recognized in The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025. This marks our very first time receiving this prestigious distinction, and we are humbled to be one of only five hotels in Japan – and the only property in Kyoto – acknowledged on this global stage.

This recognition would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our valued guests, our local community, trusted partners, and above all, our dedicated colleagues. As a hotel that reflects the beauty and spirit of Japan, we remain committed to delivering heartfelt hospitality and creating unforgettable experiences for guests from around the world, always striving to live up to this esteemed honor.

The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025 was revealed as part of a live countdown from No. 50 to No. 1. The ranking is complemented by a host of special awards alongside the first ever 51-100 list and reflects the very best travel experiences around the globe, collated from the votes of 800 anonymous experts. This voting panel – the 50 Best Hotels Academy – comprises a balanced mix of hoteliers, travel journalists, educators and seasoned luxury travelers, led by a group of industry-leading Academy Chairs.