Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei - Bridging Tradition and Innovation
Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei stands out as a beacon of timeless elegance and forward-looking innovation in Japan's hospitality industry. In Kyoto's Okazaki district, the hotel is nestled gracefully beside the Okazaki Betsuin Branch Temple, marking the brand's first new addition in nearly two decades.
In the eastern heart of Kyoto, where each day begins with the gentle embrace of the rising sun, the hotel embodies a spirit of renewal and new beginnings. Embedded in the rich heritage of Higashiyama, the surrounding ambiance fosters traditional Japanese culture and craftsmanship.
It strives to redefine the essence of Kyoto's aesthetic sensibility for a new era through the vision of Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei. As part of the ethos of "a redefining era of Kyoto's aesthetic sense," RENS Nomura collaborated with Kyoto's artisans and custodians of traditional crafts. In collaboration, we reimagined spaces within the hotel to inspire hope and innovation, free from historical constraints.
The partnership with "GO ON," a collective of six Kyoto craftsmen who continually push boundaries and explore novel horizons, is at the core of this endeavour. By collaborating, RENS envisions a hotel that bridges traditional crafts and the future, inviting guests to explore its boundless possibilities.
Every corner of Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei tells a story of craftsmanship and ingenuity. From the exquisite tea canister crafted by 'Kaikado' at the guest room entrance to the intricate bamboo latticework by 'Kohchosai Kosuga' adorning the elevator halls, each detail reflects a legacy of dedication and mastery that is sure to inspire admiration and respect.
The lobby features metalwork lampshades created using the "Kanaami Tsuji" technique, while the private restaurant room showcases ceramics made with the "Asahiyaki" technique. The Nishijin weaving, inspired by serene lakeside imagery and handcrafted by "HOSOO," adds timeless sophistication to bed headboards.
Aside from aesthetics, RENS is steadfast in its commitment to addressing the pressing issue of declining traditional crafts production. Kyoto's traditional industries shall be re-appreciated and supported by the hotel, showcasing their enduring beauty and relevance and instilling confidence and trust in our guests.
As a living testimony to a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei is more than just an accommodation. Each detail speaks of a heritage preserved and a future envisioned.
GO ON is a Kyoto-based group of six people with traditional Japanese craft backgrounds. From their roots, we expand into multiple fields, such as art, design, science, and technology.
In tradition, GO ON seeks to uncover unseen potential.
In our creative actions, GO ON consider the future, and the bright ages to come.
*Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei is the silver winning project from the Sky Design Awards 2023.