DREAM ESCAPES

Take in the beauty of Japan's former imperial capital, from its temples and tea houses to serene moments in nature

- HARRIET CHARNOCK-BATES

Kyoto

STAY

Expect to be instantly won over by Six Senses Kyoto, which recently opened in temple-studded Higashiyama.

Well-chosen textures (think blond timber and paper screens aplenty) lend warmth to the sleek interiors; bedrooms feature nature-inspired art and its central courtyard is easy on the eye. After a day wandering between the city's temples and tea houses, make a beeline for the vast wellness space to try out some of the local rituals.