An Insider’s Guide to Kyoto Courtesy of the Coolest Hotel GM in Town

STEP INTO THE VIBRANT world of Shiho Ikeuchi, the dynamic general manager of Ace Hotel Kyoto, and you’ll immediately sense an air of playful rebellion. With a streak of pink in her hair and a colorful vintage jacket paired with polka-dotted trousers, she embodies the ethos of the global Ace Hotel brand – a fearless fusion of contemporary flair and traditional Japanese charm.

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, Ace Hotel offers more than just accommodation; it’s an immersive experience curated to delight the senses. Housed within a meticulously restored building that once served as the city’s Central Telephone Office, the hotel is adorned with pop culture references and modern art.

But it’s not just about aesthetics. Under Shiho’s leadership, Ace Hotel Kyoto has become a cultural nexus, fostering artistic expression and social engagement. Each guest room is equipped with a record player and a selection of vinyl records, including one from a Japanese artist, inviting guests to immerse themselves within Japan’s vibrant music scene.

Culinarily speaking, it’s also a hub. Of course they showcase Kyoto’s rich gastronomic heritage, but Ace also serves some of my favorite Mexican food in town. The craft cocktails celebrate the diverse tastes of Japan and regular events encourage not just guests but also locals to meet and mingle.

And another thing: Shiho Ikeuchi is a trailblazer in the LGBTQ community. Since 2013, she has been a driving force in raising awareness and inclusivity, offering special wedding ceremony packages for same-sex couples and championing equality with unwavering dedication.

Intriguing, inspiring, and endlessly passionate, Shiho Ikeuchi is not just leading a hotel; she’s crafting an unforgettable experience and paving the way for a more inclusive world, one guest at a time. You can tell I found it an incredible pleasure chatting with her and discovering her favorite places in Kyoto — she’s a great tour guide, and I live here, too!

T+L SEA: First of all, congratulations on your new role as GM at Ace Hotel Kyoto!

Shiho Ikeuchi: Thank you! I am very thrilled to be a part of the Ace family, as Ace Hotel Kyoto exalts the spirit of friendship, discovery, and cultural exchange as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike, it is truly the perfect place to be, both as guests and as employees. We have an amazing team to work with in a friendly atmosphere!

T+L SEA: What has been your journey within the hospitality industry?

Shiho Ikeuchi: I have over 30 years of professional experience in the hospitality industry at international and domestic hotels, with a diverse management background in operations, sales, and marketing. 

Just before taking on this exciting new opportunity I served as a General Manager for a city-resort hotel in Western Tokyo.

T+L SEA: Where does your passion for hospitality come from?

Shiho Ikeuchi: I really love what I do. It always makes me smile when I see guests enjoying their stay with us, and often guests who initially had a complaint end up coming back and turning into loyal customers.

One of our core principles at Ace is, ‘Being yourself.’ This refers to both people staying at the hotel, but also our employees. We value creativity and one way we let our staff express themself is by letting them customize their uniform and give them the freedom to show who they are as individuals. That is the key to many industries but especially important to hospitality, and Ace is the place where it comes true.

T+L SEA: What is your vision for the hotel or what are you hoping to achieve?

Shiho Ikeuchi: Since the border opened in May 2023, we have had many inbound tourists come back to Japan, and to Kyoto. Being one of the most popular cities to visit, I would like to go beyond our guest’s high expectations with my team members. We continue to provide opportunities for cultural/art/music events in the hotel to become a bridge to our local community and visitors while we enjoy participating in them.

T+L SEA: And of course just as important what are your personal goals?

Shiho Ikeuchi: I have been deeply involved in the development of LGBTQ+ tourism in Japan for the past 10+ years, including serving as an IGLTA (International LGBTQ+ Travel Association) Board of Directors for 7 years and coming years. One of my goals is to support LGBTQ+ travelers for safe and enjoyable travel and create a place of ‘Being yourselves’ just like everyone else. 

Japan is still behind in this issue, but I sincerely believe that we can improve together, and Ace Hotel Kyoto can take the initiative.

T+L SEA: We’re thrilled for you to share your favorite spots in Kyoto with us! What inspired your selection of these particular places?

Shiho Ikeuchi: Kyoto is really a unique city and we call it the cultural capital of Japan for a reason. Visitors can enjoy every aspect of the city and it is really beautiful during any season. I chose these places because they let you peek into an authentic and local Kyoto, but they also offer a combination of mixed cultures.

Shiho Ikeuchi’s Guide to Kyoto

1. Ace Hotel Kyoto – Kōsa
〒604-8185, Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Kurumayacho 245-2 

At Kōsa, Chef Katy Cole presents her “Californian Kyoto cuisine”, a culinary ode to locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, thoughtfully paired with natural wines. The beautiful restaurant offers lunch, dinner and special seasonal afternoon tea and can be booked for events.

2. Ace Hotel Kyoto – PIOPIKO
〒604-8185, Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Kurumayacho 245-2 

Situated in the heart of Ace Hotel Kyoto, PioPiko invites diners on a culinary adventure, seamlessly melding Mexican cuisine with local flavors and ingredients created by Michelin-ranked Chef Wes Avila. With a cocktail menu to match it has quickly become a popular after-work destination amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Kyoto.

3. Kamesuehiro
〒604-8185, Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, 姉小路通烏丸東入車屋町

Kamesuehiro (亀すえひろ) is a renowned traditional Japanese sweet shop with 200 years of history. Focusing on quality and craftsmanship the shop is known for its wide variety of wagashi and offers seasonality Japanese confectionery made from only the finest local ingredients.

4. Yoshida Sanso 
〒606-8314, Kyoto, Sakyo Ward, Yoshidashimoojicho 59-1 

Formerly part of Prince Higashi-Fushimi’s imperial villa, this historic estate is celebrated for its luxurious retreat and renowned Café Shinkokan. The elegant café offers stunning views of the Japanese gardens. Coffee or tea is served with a side of Japanese poetry and regular calligraphy classes are available.

5. Ando Ningyoten
〒602-8034, Kyoto, Kamigyo Ward, Komeyacho, 273-2

This renowned doll shop with over a century of history specializes in traditional custom-made Japanese Hina dolls. These exquisite creations have garnered numerous awards and accolades for their contribution to Japanese doll artistry. Showcased in prestigious exhibitions worldwide, they have even been presented to royalty around the globe as esteemed gifts from Japan.

6. Shunkoin Temple 
〒616-8035, Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, Hanazonomyoshinjicho 42

Shunkoin Temple, situated within the Myoshinji Temple complex, provides a range of experiences including Zen meditation, Kissako sessions, and retreats. Additionally, Rev. Takafumi Zenryu Kawakami, a distinguished lecturer with a notable presence at institutions such as MIT, Brown University, and Eton College, stands out as one of the pioneers in conducting wedding ceremonies for same-sex couples in Japan.

acehotel.com/kyoto; doubles from ¥46,613

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