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MAJA HOTEL KYOTO - A Scandinavian Cuisine And Design Capsule Hotel
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Opened in December 2019, MAJA HOTEL KYOTO in Kawaramachi is a capsule hotel featuring designs inspired by a Scandinavian hut (maja). The gorgeous lodging offers Scandinavian cuisine, complete with the first overseas branch of the Finnish CAFE AALTO on the first floor.
Picture courtesy of MAJA HOTEL KYOTO
Kawaramachi is always busy with tourists, with its variety of unique shops and delicious food at Nishiki Market, nicknamed "Kyoto's Kitchen."
In December 2019, MAJA HOTEL KYOTO opened as a Finnish capsule hotel in the downtown district of Kawaramachi.
From the furniture to the interior arrangement, the hotel was designed with the help of Harri Koskinen. A renowned Finnish product designer, his works are displayed at New York's Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). Koshiken has also collaborated on projects with MUJI and the Japanese designer, Issey Miyake.
On the first floor, you will find the only overseas branch of the Finnish CAFE AALTO. Designed by Alvar Aalto (1898-1976), the original shop is inside the Academic Bookstore in Helsinki. Through its design and menu, the second branch in Kyoto seeks to capture the essence of the original shop.
Hut Motifs and Exclusive Textiles by Marimekko
The hotel's name originated from the Finnish word "maja," which means "hut." As such, you will see various hut motifs scattered around the lodging facility.
Picture courtesy of MAJA HOTEL KYOTO
Picture courtesy of MAJA HOTEL KYOTO
The centerpiece of the hotel is the rooms that are lovingly called huts. You can choose from the two-square-meter sleep-in hut (40 rooms) or the three-square-meter walk-in hut (20 rooms). Both types of huts include hangers, hanger hooks, electrical outlets, and dimming lights that were designed by Koskinen.
The walk-in hut has space underneath the bed to store your suitcase, while the sleep-in hut has a separate locker for your luggage.
The textiles on the curtain and bedding were designed by Koskinen and made by the Finnish lifestyle brand, Marimekko.
Merging the greens and blues of Finland's nature with the maja concept, the textile is aptly named MAJA KIOTO. You can purchase your own tote bag and pouch with the MAJA KIOTO design at the hotel shop.
We asked Koskinen why he decided to implement the maja concept. "The triangular hut is a universal design associated with homes and symbolizes warmth and comfort," he explained.
Solid wood was used for the construction. Its rounded edges combined with the soft lights, which appear like moonlight, evoke a sense of serenity.
A Homey Stay with Scandinavian Aesthetics
The toilets (second, third, fourth floors), washrooms (third, fourth floors), and shower rooms (fourth floor) are all communal. The amenities include comfy pajama set, towels, earplugs, slippers, and a black tote bag.
Picture courtesy of MAJA HOTEL KYOTO
The shower rooms have shampoo, conditioner, and body soap. Remember to bring your own toothbrush or purchase one at the front desk.
Picture courtesy of MAJA HOTEL KYOTO
At the second-floor guest lounge, you will find speakers designed by Koskinen. His famous frozen light bulb called "Block Light"—a permanent collection at the MoMA—is also on display. The coffee mill and toaster are free to use, too.
The dishes are mostly selected from the Finnish design brand, Iittala.
According to Koskinen, "The walls are left blank so guests can reflect on their moods in the space. We hope this location brings people together over a cup of tea or coffee."
Taste Authentic Finnish Cuisine at CAFE AALTO
Picture courtesy of MAJA HOTEL KYOTO
CAFE AALTO on the first floor is the first international branch outside Helsinki. It appeared in the 2006 Japanese film, "Kamome Diner." Reserve a room with a breakfast plan to enjoy at the cafe.
In addition to walls adorned with striking blue tiles, the pendant lamps and marble tables will catch your eye. You'll also find furniture designed by Aalto, framed photos of the Helsinki cafe, and a single flower decorating each table.
Picture courtesy of MAJA HOTEL KYOTO
The menu at this chic cafe includes cinnamon rolls and traditional breakfast plates, and authentic Finnish dishes, such as salmon and vegetable soup.
Picture courtesy of MAJA HOTEL KYOTO
The owner of the Finnish CAFE AALTO has exclusively selected a medium roast coffee for Kyoto. A variety of desserts are also served, including blueberry pie. It is a great place to wind down after a day of sightseeing since the cafe is open until 22:00. The Kyoto branch is open to the public, too.
We recommend considering MAJA HOTEL KYOTO for your next stay if you're interested in Finnish design!
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