The Best Ryokan in Kyoto – 5 Options in Gion, Kyoto
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Traveling in a group to Japan is not easy, especially when you’re trying to find the best ryokan in Kyoto. For one, Japan in general is not very spacious. Two, finding accommodations that can…well, accommodate everyone can be tricky! During our two weeks in Japan, we knew we wanted to visit Kyoto, but were totally overwhelmed by the amount of lodging available.
Which makes sense considering Kyoto is a hotspot for international AND domestic tourism.
And, since Kyoto is a city centered on preserving Japanese history and roots while bringing it into modern comforts, we were very keen on also trying to find the best ryokan in Kyoto to stay in. And, since you clicked on this post, you probably are too. Don’t worry, I gotchu!
What is a Ryokan?
If you’re headed to cultural capital of Japan, one of the best things to do in Kyoto is to stay in a ryokan. Preferably, the best ryokan in Kyoto. But…what exactly is a ryokan?
A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn, and its origins date back to the 6th century when the oldest hotel in the world, Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan, was created in 705 A.D. Yeah, THAT’S how traditional ryokans are. The hotel with the title of the world’s second oldest hotel is also in Japan, called Hōshi Ryokan. So you can say Japanese hotel hospitality has been around for a while!
Along with the amazing customer service, ryokans also typically have traditional furnishings and amenities, like tatami mats, communal onsens (hot spring baths), sliding doors and futon beds. A bit of ryokan etiquette: never walk on tatami mats with your outside shoes! And futon beds…well, they aren’t the most plush (heads up!), but keep an open mind if you’re suddenly surprised with them.
Why Gion?
The reason why I say the best accommodations and the best ryokan in Kyoto is located in Gion because…well, it’s a district that has everything travelers look for when visiting Kyoto! The neighborhood has many traditionally styled buildings, and every street is lined with restaurants, unique shops, and multiple historic and cultural attractions like pagodas, temples, and parks. It’s also the perfect area for renting a kimono in Kyoto!
Hotels
Since we were traveling in a group, for us, it was easier (and more affordable) to stay in a shared house in Kyoto. It was still a traditional setup and very nice, don’t get me wrong, buuut…not too many amenities to make me rebook it. However, I’ve had some friends stay in traditional hotels and they swear it was the best ryokan in Kyoto!
Hotels in Kyoto are great because you are easily able to ship your luggage to them if you are traveling from another city, many of them have complimentary bike rentals, and the concierge can recommend a few favorite local eateries for you when that super popular place you saw on TikTok has a 2 hour wait.
Luxury Hotel SOWAKA
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Set among the historic corner of Higashiyama, Luxury Hotel SOWAKA is by far one of – if not THE – best ryokan in Kyoto. Putting you right at the heart of Kyoto’s ancient streets, you’re just steps from temples, streets lined with traditional machiya houses, and authentic Japanese restaurants.
This luxury ryokan encapsulates the traditions of a Japanese guest house blended with contemporary comfort. The daily Japanese and Western breakfast options are served in a sunken restaurant surrounded by a zen garden, while communal spaces are thoughtfully designed as places of solace.
Rooms are spacious with views overlooking tranquil garden spaces, with authentic features including rice paper doors and wooden touches throughout. This charming hotel also features La BOMBANCE Gion, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving exceptional Japanese cuisine. Of course the best ryokan in Kyoto would have a Michelin star restaurant 😉
Conveniently located on a car-accessible street, guests can easily arrive by taxi. With 24-hour reception facilities, the hotel features an on-site bar presenting a curated selection of Japanese beverages including sake, whiskey, and shochu. Nearby, guests can tip-toe along Kobu or Shirakawi-dori or keep their eyes peeled for a glimpse of a geisha in the evening, and that alone makes it the best ryokan in Kyoto. Just a 15-minute walk, the UNESCO-listed Kiyomizudera Temple is a must-visit for Kyoto, especially in November when the autumn leaves change.
Luxury Hotel SOWAKA is approximately a 10-minute drive from Kyoto JR station in the Higashiyama district. Guests are offered a welcome drink upon arrival before being shown to their room, and the entire experience exudes understated elegance.
Conclusion: The Best Ryokan in Kyoto
I will definitely visit Kyoto again, and of course, continue on my journey to finding the best ryokan in Kyoto. When I do, I WILL be updating this post, so stay tuned for that!
Will you be traveling to different cities throughout Japan? If you’re looking for where to stay, check out my other hotel guides throughout Japan!
- Best Hotels in Tokyo
- Best Resort in Fujiyoshida
- Best Hotels in Osaka (coming soon)
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