7 Most Beautiful Ryokans in Kyoto, Japan

Looking for the best ryokans in Kyoto? This guide covers beautiful traditional inns in Kyoto, from hidden gardens to private baths.

Kyoto is one of the most beautiful cities in Japan, and staying in a traditional ryokan is one of the best ways to experience it. These Japanese-style inns are quiet, calming, and full of little details that make your stay feel special.

Whether you’re after a luxury retreat with a private bath or a simple, homey spot close to the temples, Kyoto has a ryokan for you. In this guide, I’ve rounded up some of the best ryokans in Kyoto, each with its own personality, setting, and special touches. Let’s take a look.

Seikoro Ryokan

If you’re looking for a ryokan with deep roots in Kyoto’s history, Seikoro is a beautiful choice. It’s been open since 1831, and it feels like a quiet retreat from the busy city.

You’ll stay in beautifully preserved rooms with tatami mats, paper screens, and garden views that change with the seasons.

The ryokan’s architecture reflects classic Kyoto craftsmanship, and the garden is said to be designed by famed landscape architect Mirei Shigemori.

Guests love the calm atmosphere and the attention to detail, from the handcrafted breakfast trays delivered to your room to the peaceful public bath where you can soak after a long day.

The location is central but quiet, tucked near the Kamogawa River. You’re close to both Gion and Higashiyama, and it’s easy to get to top spots like Fushimi Inari or Arashiyama. Whether you’re walking or taking the train, getting around is simple.

Muromachi Yutone Kyokoyado

If you want a stay that feels personal and deeply peaceful, Muromachi Yutone Kyokoyado is a gem. With only seven rooms, this ryokan gives you space to slow down and settle in.

Inside, it’s full of quiet elegance. Rooms are decorated with handmade washi paper, soft lighting, and shoji screens.

Some even have deep hinoki or cedarwood bathtubs that release a natural, calming scent when filled.

Food is the highlight here. Seasonal kaiseki dinners is made fresh each day and served in your room.

The staff are attentive in a quiet, respectful way, and small extras like heated floors and yukata robes make your stay feel just a little more special.

You’ll find this ryokan near Karasuma Oike Station, just steps from the Kyoto International Manga Museum. The area is walkable and well-connected by subway, making it easy to explore places like Nishiki Market or Nijo Castle without the noise of the tourist crowds.

Matsubaya Ryokan

Matsubaya Ryokan is a great pick if you’re looking for a traditional stay close to Kyoto Station without spending a fortune. It has a relaxed, home-style feel, and the staff are known for being kind and helpful.

The building has been updated, but it still keeps a classic charm with its tatami floors, sliding doors, and a quiet garden courtyard.

You can choose from Japanese-style rooms with futons or Western-style rooms with beds, making it a good option if you’re traveling with someone new to ryokans.

Some rooms even come with private baths, and breakfast is available if you’d like to start your day the easy way. There’s also a small café lounge, massage service, and bike rentals available for guests.

Located just a few minutes from Kyoto Station, it’s perfect for exploring the city or taking day trips to places like Nara or Osaka. You’re also close to plenty of restaurants, shops, and convenience stores, so you’ll have everything you need within easy reach.

Toshiharu Ryokan

If you love places with history, you’ll enjoy staying at Toshiharu. This small ryokan was built in 1909 and still keeps its original wooden structure. It’s officially registered as a cultural property, and you can tell it’s been cared for with pride.

The rooms have a peaceful, old Kyoto feel. You’ll sleep on futons over tatami floors, with paper doors, soft lighting, and views of a little garden. Some rooms come with a balcony.

Breakfast here is a real treat. It’s simple but beautifully prepared, and many guests say it’s the best they had in Japan. You can also book a massage, or just relax with tea in your room after a long day out.

The ryokan is tucked on a quiet street near Gojo Station. You can walk to Shijo, Nishiki Market, and even Gion without needing a bus or taxi. It’s a peaceful base, close to everything but away from the crowds.

Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei

This place is a smart mix of old and new. If you want a ryokan that’s comfortable and stylish, but still feels traditional, Sakura Urushitei is a great option.

Inside, the rooms have simple wooden design, soft lights, and clean lines. You’ll find modern touches like a Nespresso machine and great air conditioning.

There’s a small rooftop terrace, laundry service, and a bar where you can unwind in the evening. The staff are friendly and speak fluent English, which makes things easier if it’s your first time in Japan.

You’ll be in a really convenient spot, just a few minutes’ walk from Nishiki Market and close to downtown shopping. It’s easy to catch a bus or subway to anywhere in Kyoto. You can explore all day and still be back in your room in time to relax before dinner.

This traditional Japanese inn stands out for its style and architecture, which combines modern and traditional elements.

Located near the Kawaramachi area, it’s only a minute walk away from popular tourist attractions like Nijo Castle and Kiyomizu-Dera temple. 

Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo

If you’re dreaming of a stay that feels close to nature, Yachiyo delivers. It’s a beautiful garden ryokan just a short walk from Nanzen-ji Temple and the Philosopher’s Path.

The building has a quiet, timeless look. Rooms open to a traditional garden with cherry blossoms, moss stones, and flowing water.

You can book a room with a private bath or use the larger onsen-style tubs on site. There’s also a small café and a gift shop filled with handmade Kyoto goods.

Food is a big part of the experience here. You can order a full kaiseki dinner, or try their popular sukiyaki course. The breakfast is also generous and made with local ingredients.

It’s not in the center of Kyoto, which is actually a plus. Mornings here are quiet. You’ll be able to walk to Nanzen-ji before the tour groups arrive. And if you want to go downtown, buses and taxis are easy to catch.

Kyoto Takasegawa Bettei

Looking for a calm, modern place with a traditional touch? Takasegawa Bettei is a quiet hideaway near the river, with warm wooden interiors and just a few rooms.

Each room is clean and simple. What stands out most is the cypress bathtub. The smell of the wood fills the whole room once it’s warm.

Staff here are gentle and helpful. They give you hand warmers in winter, and the breakfast,either Japanese or Western, is fresh and satisfying. 

You’ll also find a small lounge where you can sip tea or something stronger before bed.

The ryokan is just a short walk to Gojo or Shichijo stations. It’s close enough to Kyoto Station that you can walk there too.

But the area itself is quiet, right by the canal. It feels like a local neighborhood, not a tourist zone. If you like peaceful mornings and evening walks by the river, you’ll feel at home here.

FAQs about Kyoto ryokans