Facing the great north gate of Nijo Castle, Kyoto is preparing to welcome a new 77-room residence. Announced by Shangri-La Group on September 10, 2026, Songtei Kyoto will become the second address in its Shangri-La Signatures collection.
The view is part of the hotel’s story. The site once held the residence of the Kyoto Shoshidai, the Tokugawa shogunate’s representative in the imperial capital. From the rooms and suites, carefully framed outlooks will take in Nijo Castle’s Kita Ote-mon, its gardens and the surrounding landscape.
A Name Drawn from Pine and Home
The name Songtei joins two ideas. “Song” refers to the pine, a symbol of longevity and good fortune, while “Tei” carries an invitation to feel at home. Together, they suggest a Kyoto residence shaped by permanence, welcome and a quiet sense of belonging.
Shangri-La describes the design as a contemporary reimagining of Kyoto’s Edo-period residences. Art, wellness, food and storytelling will unfold within a private-house atmosphere, allowing the history of the site to remain present throughout the stay.
Seventy-Seven Rooms Opposite Nijo Castle
Songtei Kyoto will have 77 rooms and suites. Their outlook is being composed around the castle’s north gate, the gardens and Kyoto’s changing light—a first impression that may begin at the window before the city itself draws guests outside.
Shangri-La Signatures is conceived as a collection of intimate, residential-style hotels whose design begins with the history and character of their setting. Detailed room categories and dimensions for Songtei Kyoto will be announced later.
Hot Baths, Pool and Private Spa
The wellness sanctuary is planned with a private spa, indoor and outdoor hot baths, an indoor pool and a gym. It is expected to give the stay its own gentle rhythm—a swim in the morning, hours spent walking through Kyoto, then the warmth of the baths on return.
Four Places to Dine
The first culinary outline includes an all-day dining lounge, a Chinese fine-dining restaurant, a kappo-sushi counter and an intimate evening bar. As the day moves on, guests will be able to pass from an unhurried lounge to the ceremony of the counter, and finally to a quieter drink at night.
Shangri-La’s Asian hospitality will find expression here through Chinese cuisine and Kyoto’s counter-dining culture. Restaurant names, chefs and menus will be announced later.
A Phased Opening from Late 2026
Songtei Kyoto is expected to welcome its first guests from late 2026. Facilities will open progressively, with the full property unveiling planned for early 2027.
A precise opening date, room rates and reservation information have not yet been released. The official schedule currently remains late 2026, with the first-night booking date to follow.
Information in this preview reflects Shangri-La Group’s announcement of September 10, 2026. We will update the article when reservations, room categories and the final opening schedule are published.
Reservation details are expected to follow. We will add booking information once it is confirmed.
Source: Shangri-La Group announcement — Songtei Kyoto, Shangri-La Signatures
