Kyoto's Dusit, Banyan hotels mix in Southeast Asian touch to entice guests

Thai food and spa, combined with Japanese service, help set properties apart

Dusit Thani Kyoto features performances by both apprentice geisha and traditionally dressed Thai dancers. (Photo by Koji Nozawa)

KOJI NOZAWA

June 15, 2025 17:29 JST

TOKYO -- Southeast Asian luxury hotels in Japan are gaining popularity for combining foreign elements like Thai cuisine and local elements like geisha and hot springs, aiming to appeal to both inbound tourists wanting to experience Japan and native Japanese desiring a taste of greater Asia.