Where? The ancient cultural city of Kyoto is now home to the first Clarins day spa in Asia. Offering panoramic views from the 10th floor of the Kyoto Royal Hotel, the spa sits among the temples, shrines and traditional shops of Japan's first capital. The Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle and the famous geisha entertainment district of Gion are a short stroll from the hotel.
What is it? Not just another Bali-esque spa, the Kotoran Spa pays serious respect to the Japanese spiritual approach to healing and relaxation. Treatments begin with guided meditation, a popular practice in Kyoto, involving simple breathing techniques. Delicate incense from Shoyeido, Kyoto's most famous producer (established in 1705), is burned during treatments, while the hotel's pure mineral water, drawn from its own spring under the hotel, is used for drinking and bathing.
A full Clarins professional spa menu is also available.
Tell us more Designed to inspire Zen-like calm, the spa is decorated with Kyoto-sourced bamboo, wood, washi (Japanese paper) and water features. There are seven treatment rooms, one of which has a private Jacuzzi with spectacular views. Other Japanese touches include traditional Shiatsu massage using Kyoto bamboo sticks, and green tea herbal ball treatment, which uses a poultice of steamed uji green tea and Japanese herbs applied to trigger points to stimulate the body.
What about accommodation? The hotel is a Kyoto landmark thanks to its location in the heart of the tourist and shopping district. Book the Spa Stay Package for true luxury: the all-in-one price ensures a suite on the same floor as the spa, credit for spa treatments and breakfast from the spa's specially designed healthy menu. The Spa Suites are designed in the same style as the spa and allow guests to enjoy treatments in private. Ideal for sending one drifting off to sleep is a tender camellia-oil scalp treatment, based on the head massage traditionally given to Japanese newborn babies by their mothers.