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IMMERSE in the refined culture, age-old heritage, and picturesque scenery of Kyoto, as Japan fully reopens its borders to independent travellers. Explore charming Kyoto with The First Trip introducing two of the newest Banyan Tree hotels.
As Japan’s long-anticipated full-scale tourism reopens, independent travellers can now celebrate the quiet beauty of Kyoto and other popular destinations in the Land of the Rising Sun. With the country easing its border-control requirements, Banyan Tree Group welcomes guests to its two newly opened hotels in the country – Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto and Dhawa Yura Kyoto – with special savings on stays and experiences under “The First Trip” campaign.
In addition to dropping the current requirement of signing up for package tours, Japan is reinstating visa-free short-term stays for visitors from 68 countries and regions – including South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the U.S., the U.K., and Australia. Visitors will only need to show proof of having received three doses of coronavirus vaccines or a negative test result.
First rolled out in Thailand, Mexico, the Maldives, Indonesia and Malaysia earlier this year, “The First Trip” aims to make the return to travel not only as smooth as possible, but to also help travellers explore new locales and revisit favourite destinations in a more purposeful way.
With both packages focusing on unique experiences that distil the essence of Kyoto, “The First Trip” Japan edition offers complimentary cultural adventures connecting visitors to local culture and history, as well as savings on BAR (Best Available Rate) rate and more. At Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto, guests will have the chance to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Nijo Castle, while at Dhawa Yura Kyoto they will get to experience the legendary sento ritual at the Kyoto Public Baths where locals visit to bathe and socialise.
As the first opening under the Group’s newest concept, Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto presents a new and distinct approach to wellbeing through simplistic design and amenities that recharge and rejuvenate. The 25-room hotel is located in front of Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site first built in 1603 during the Tokugawa Shogunate, and offers a meditative view of lush greenery from the lobby, seasonal cuisine at its innovative French restaurant, Singular, and a Wellbeing Room for restorative exercises and yoga. Urbane and pared-back, Garrya was built for the sophisticated traveller looking to escape the chaos of everyday life.
Dhawa Yura Kyoto
The first Dhawa property in Japan, Dhawa Yura Kyoto, is located in Sanjo, in the heart of Kyoto, 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, the 138-room boutique hotel offers a convenient base from which to explore the city’s many sights, while its interior design and artworks reflect the historic ties to the Edo period in Japan.
A mesmerising blend of old and new, East and West, ancient history and modern technology, Dhawa Yura Kyoto is deeply rooted in history while offering a full range of premium contemporary comforts, including 8LEMENTS Spa that will nurture with healing therapies and indigenous treatments.
Both packages are open for bookings and stays from today until 30th June 2023, with a minimum stay of one night. [sources/photo special]
