Hilton plans to introduce its Motto brand to Japan with a 108-room hotel in Kyoto, adding another option for travelers who want a centrally located base with social spaces and access to public transportation. Motto by Hilton Kyoto Shijo Karasuma is scheduled to open in 2029 and will be managed by Hilton.
The company and development partner Heiwa Real Estate announced plans for an all-day dining restaurant and a lounge with an open terrace. The signing brings a new brand to Hilton’s local portfolio, which is expected to reach seven hotels once Motto and a forthcoming Curio Collection property are added.
The location is central to the proposition. The hotel will sit a two-minute walk from Shijo Station on the municipal subway’s Karasuma Line and Karasuma Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line. Connections to Kyoto Station should make the property a practical base for visitors arriving by rail, while nearby shopping, dining and cultural districts provide reasons to explore on foot.
Hilton highlights access to Nishiki Market and the city’s traditional streetscapes as part of the hotel’s appeal. For international visitors planning a stay around food, architecture and historic neighborhoods, that combination of transit access and local surroundings is more immediately relevant than the brand’s arrival alone. TravelCapybara’s Kyoto travel guide explores the city’s temples, tea houses and cultural attractions.
A Lifestyle Brand Joins Hilton’s Growing Kyoto Portfolio
Motto’s approach emphasizes design, shared spaces and a connection to the surrounding destination. Hilton says the Kyoto property will serve families and friends traveling together, solo visitors and business guests. Detailed room layouts have not been disclosed in the announcement, so the promised flexibility should not yet be read as confirmation of specific configurations or amenities.
Hirohisa Fujimoto, Hilton’s regional development executive, described the signing as part of the company’s commitment to a key growth market. Alex Shockley, who oversees lifestyle and collection brands in the region, emphasized a locally rooted experience that encourages guests to gather and engage with the city.
The company entered Kyoto in 2021 with ROKU KYOTO, LXR Hotels & Resorts, and has opened five hotels in the city over the past five years. Adding Motto alongside the planned Curio Collection hotel will broaden the choice of Hilton brands available locally.
The deal also supports Heiwa Real Estate’s WAY2040 strategy, under which the developer is expanding its hotel business. Globally, Hilton reports 13 operating Motto hotels and more than 24 in development, placing the Kyoto signing within a wider expansion of the brand.
The property will participate in Hilton Honors. Hilton says eligible direct bookings will offer member discounts, standard Wi-Fi and the ability to combine points with money. For travelers considering the new hotel, however, the announcement remains a development milestone: 2029 is the scheduled opening year, and specific opening dates, room rates and reservation details have not been provided.
Disclaimer: TravelCapybara is an independent media brand owned and operated by NuvexMedia LLC, publishing travel news, destination guides, research, and insights. NuvexMedia LLC may invest in or collaborate with companies across the travel, hospitality, technology, and digital media sectors. These relationships do not influence TravelCapybara’s editorial coverage. While we strive for accuracy, travel requirements, prices, schedules, availability, and local conditions may change without notice. Readers should independently verify information before making travel or purchasing decisions. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. © 2026 NuvexMedia LLC. All rights reserved.
