Get to Know The Kimpton Buchanan in San Francisco

We adore the City by the Bay. After all, Kimpton was born there. So, while we now have hotels popping up all over the nation (and beyond), we’re thrilled to continue our 34-year San Francisco lovefest with our newest hotel, The Buchanan. And to share the love, we have a special offer loaded with goodies to enhance your stay.

This gem is situated right in the heart of the city, at the corner of Sutter and Buchanan streets. And after a little Sherlocking we found out that the street (and our hotel) was actually named for adventurer and California pioneer, John C. Buchanan, not after James Buchanan, president of the United States circa 1857. And much like the origin of the street’s name, The Buchanan is not what you’d expect and full of little surprises.

Stroll around Lower Pac Heights for boutiques galore

First off, let’s talk location. When it comes to where most hotels are planted in the city, you have your usual suspects like downtown, Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf. Lovely spots, but predictable and dare we say it, touristy. If you want to feel like a local, The Buchanan is your insider ticket. It’s a trifecta of cultural vibrancy nestled at the intersection of three neighborhoods — historical Japantown, elegant Pacific Heights, and the jazzy Fillmore District.

Japantown’s Peace Plaza

Start your day with chicken and waffles. Hunt for treasures like bonsai trees, hard-to-find Japanese anime and manga, and designer kicks. At lunchtime, stumble upon a hidden ramen house and ascend to noodle heaven. Catch breathtaking views of the bay from Lafayette Park, then kick off the night at one of San Francisco’s best restaurants or rock out at legendary concert hall The Fillmore. The best part? You can do all of this by walking less than a quarter mile out the hotel’s front door.

Nothing beats the legendary sounds of live jazz on the Fillmore

Ok, now that you’re hip to The Buchanan’s stellar location, let’s talk about the hotel. Ever wanted your own chic San Francisco apartment? Staying at The Buchanan will give you a peek into that parallel life. Designer Nicole Hollis has created a warm, welcoming and highly residential experience that’s truly in tune with the city.

When you arrive at The Buchanan, you won’t encounter typical hotel plumage like signage overkill or a group of valets — just drive right into the covered parking area. Upon entering the lobby, inspired by a Japanese whiskey lounge, you might get thirsty. Walls are reminiscent of toasted and branded barrels while check-in happens under a canopy of undulating whiskey bottles. Cozy seating areas are the perfect spot to meet friends, new and old, and share the day’s adventures.

A King Room at The Buchanan featuring bespoke furnishings

The 131 guest rooms are bright, airy and oh-so-inviting. Striking framed artwork is hung asymetrically and a small print of Japanese books rests above the coat and key hook. Leather is fashioned into sling-back chairs and nightstand handles. Earthy materials like linen, wood and cotton abound, and shibori-print accent pillows and kimono–style robes make a bow to Japantown.

And speaking of traditional-style robes, you can take yours home with you, along with a couple mini bottles of Hibiki Suntory Whisky as part of our Kanpai & Kimono package. You can book it right here. Slip into your robe, pour yourself a whiskey, and do your best Bill Murray Lost in Translation imitation: “For relaxing times, make it Suntory time.”

Finally, a hot tip. If you love fresh air and a view (who doesn’t?), book a room with a balcony — a rare treat in San Francisco. As we said, The Buchanan is not what you’d expect, but it’s everything you’ll love.