Nowadays everyone goes to Kyoto.

The blame lies with the famous temples and shrines, the endlessly fascinating streets and the first-class food.

For any of these reasons, you might consider visiting.

But here’s a new one: Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto, which just opened in Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district. It’s the brand’s first foray into the city, and the property features 52 guest rooms, the signature Banyan Tree Spa, kaiseki dinners, and a sake bar.

The location is unbeatable. The hotel is surrounded by a bamboo forest and close to top attractions such as Kodai-ji Temple and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The hotel’s 52 guest rooms feature local materials, including large cypress-wood bathtubs, tatami mats, natural wood elements and gold leaf accents. There are also eight Onsen Retreat rooms with private natural onsens.

They make additional use of this hot spring by offering an indoor and outdoor onsen facility where guests can participate in the ancient Japanese custom. The Banyan Tree Spa features six treatment rooms with thermal water tubs, a sauna, steam room and relaxation area, as well as a selection of treatments exclusive to the Kuyoto facility, such as a bamboo massage.

When it’s time to eat, head to Ryozen, the property’s Japanese restaurant. It focuses on seasonal and local ingredients and multi-course kaiseki meals. The sake-centric bar offers an impressive collection of locally produced sakes and also serves as a place to enjoy afternoon tea during the day.

Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto is the only hotel in Kyoto with a traditional Noh stage. Nohgaku is a Japanese performing art with supernatural themes such as ghosts and gods that has been performed continuously since the 14th century. The open-air stage serves as a venue for traditional Nohgaku, contemporary art performances, and music events.

It’s still up to you to start the wave.