New Restaurant Concept, 'Kappo Atona', to Debut in Kyoto, Japan in Autumn 2026

Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Kiraku, Inc. have announced the launch of a refined new restaurant concept, Kappo Atona, set to debut in Kyoto’s historic Gion Shirakawa district in autumn 2026. This marks a unique milestone as it will be the first time a restaurant opens ahead of a hotel for both brands.

Concept & Culinary Vision
- Inspired by the Atona brand, a luxury hot spring ryokan joint venture between Hyatt and Kiraku.
- Rooted in kappo dining, a traditional Japanese style emphasizing chef-guided tasting, seasonal ingredients, and personal connection.
- The bar will feature washu—traditional Japanese spirits and sake—served in cocktails inspired by Japan’s landscapes.

Location & Atmosphere
- Situated along the Shirakawa River in Gion Shirakawa, one of Kyoto’s most iconic and culturally rich districts.
- Designed by Ryu Kosaka and Yushi Tanaka of NOMURA Co., Ltd., with art direction by Kenya Hara, brand director for Atona.
- The ambiance will reflect Japan’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, reinterpreted through a contemporary lens.

Future Expansion of Atona
- Following Kappo Atona, Atona-branded ryokans are planned for:
- Kuju, Oita Prefecture: Known for volcanic landscapes and hot springs.
- Yoichi, Hokkaido: A coastal region famed for wine production and onsen culture.
- These join previously announced sites in Yufu, Hakone, and Yakushima, with openings expected from 2028 onward.

Ryokan Experience Preview
Each Atona ryokan will feature:
- 30–50 guestrooms
- Onsen facilities with natural hot spring water
- Kappo-style restaurant and artisanal cocktail bar
- Wellness experiences rooted in Japanese traditions

This initiative is part of Hyatt’s broader commitment to authentic, immersive travel and Kiraku’s mission to revitalize undervalued cultural assets across Japan.