A Trip to Kyoto Exploring Showa Modernist Architecture and Its Legacy

A Journey Through Kyoto Exploring Showa Modernist Architecture and Its Enduring Legacy

In celebration of the 40th anniversary of The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike, this exclusive stay package offers a unique opportunity to discover the architectural philosophy and aesthetic vision of Togo Murano, one of Japan’s most influential modern architects.

Period: September 20, 2026 (Sun.) – September 21, 2026 (Mon., National Holiday)

Reservations:
Seibu Prince Global Rewards Members: From July 18, 2026 (Sat.)
General Public: From July 23, 2026 (Thu.)
Reservations are available for a minimum of two guests per room.

Tour Itinerary (2 Days / 1 Night)

September 20, 2026 (Sun.)

2:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M.
Arrival at the hotel and check-in

3:00 P.M.
Lecture: “The True Value of Architectural Masterpieces that Witnessed the Showa Era – The Touch of Togo Murano’s Architecture”

4:00 P.M.
Architectural Tour of the Hotel
Guided by a hotel concierge

5:30 P.M.
Dinner
Enjoy a full-course French dinner created by Executive Chef Isao Yoshida as a tribute to the architecture of Togo Murano.

September 21, 2026 (Mon., National Holiday)

6:30 A.M. – 10:00 A.M.
Breakfast and free time

9:00 A.M. – 10:00 A.M.
Tour of Charyo and free time

10:00 A.M.
Meet in the hotel lobby and transfer on foot to the Kyoto International Conference Center

10:30 A.M.
Guided Tour of the Kyoto International Conference Center
(The tour is scheduled to conclude at approximately 11:30 A.M.)

12:00 Noon
Return to the hotel, followed by individual check-out and dismissal

Please note that the schedule is subject to change depending on the number of participants and operational circumstances on the day of the event. We kindly recommend allowing sufficient time when planning your participation.

Togo Murano: Master of Modern Japanese Architecture

Togo Murano (1891–1984)

Master of Modern Japanese Architecture

• Graduated from the Department of Architecture, School of Science and Engineering, Waseda University
• Recipient of the Order of Culture (1967)
• Member of the Japan Art Academy

Selected Works

Watanabe Memorial Hall of Ube (Yamaguchi Prefecture, Important Cultural Property), Hiroshima Peace Memorial Cathedral (Hiroshima, Important Cultural Property), and the Nippon Life Hibiya Building (Nissei Theatre, Tokyo), among many others.

Widely regarded as one of Japan’s most distinguished architects, Togo Murano remained at the forefront of architectural design throughout both the prewar and postwar periods. His highly artistic creations, distinguished by meticulous attention to detail and innovative design, continue to be admired today.

Particularly renowned for his expertise in hotel architecture, Murano further broadened his knowledge through extensive inspections of hospitality facilities in Europe and the United States when entrusted with the renovation of the Akasaka Palace into the State Guest House.

Murano also designed several Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide properties, including The Prince Hakone Lake Ashinoko and Sanyo-so, Izu Nagaoka Onsen, both celebrated for their harmonious blend of architecture, landscape, and hospitality.

40 Years of Togo Murano and The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike

In the closing days of 1983, architect Togo Murano visited Takaragaike for the first time.

It is said that each time he returned to the site, sketchbook in hand, he demonstrated an unwavering determination to devote the final chapter of his life to this project. Although Murano passed away in 1984 before seeing the hotel completed, his disciples faithfully carried on his vision. In October 1986, a distinctive circular hotel, harmoniously integrated with the surrounding landscape, opened its doors in Takaragaike.

The building’s graceful design, characterized by Murano’s signature use of flowing curves, continues to invite guests into an atmosphere of comfort and tranquility.

Murano also envisioned this property as “a first-class international hotel.” Since its opening in the convention district of Takaragaike, the hotel has served as the venue for a wide variety of conferences, academic gatherings, and social events, welcoming distinguished guests from Japan and around the world.

Over the past four decades, this rich history has become an invaluable legacy, one that continues to inspire the spirit of hospitality and is proudly carried forward by each new generation of staff.

Dinner Included in the Package

Menu
Crab Chaud-Froid
A Tribute to Togo Murano
Matsutake Mushroom and Tanba Chicken Consommé Soup en Croûte
Lobster Thermidor Gratin
Omi Beef Tenderloin Rossini Style with Foie Gras
Apple Pie
Tanba Chestnut Crème Brûlée with Vanilla Ice Cream
Bread
Coffee

Breakfast Included in the Package

Japanese and Western Breakfast BuffetEnjoy a breakfast buffet featuring a selection of Japanese and Western dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
Venue: Main Dining Itozakura (1F) or a banquet room
Hours: 6:30 A.M. – 10:30 A.M. (Last Order: 11:00 A.M.)
Please note that operating hours and service details are subject to change.
Depending on the date of your stay, breakfast may be served either in the restaurant or in a banquet venue. Details will be provided upon your arrival.

For reservations and inquiries, please contact us.