7 Best Ryokans In Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, the historical capital of Japan, is renowned for its beautiful sites and cultural experiences. To help you find the perfect place to stay, here’s our list of the best ryokans in Kyoto, Japan.

Seikoro Ryokan

Established in 1831, Seikoro Ryokan is one of the oldest ryokans in Kyoto.

This traditional Japanese inn is located in the heart of Kyoto, making it ideal for those who want to explore all Kyoto has to offer. 

Staying here, you can easily access many famous attractions, such as the Fushimi Inari shrine or Arashiyama bamboo grove while feeling secluded from city life’s hustle and bustle.

The style and architecture at Seikoro Ryokan are truly unique. Its large wooden gates open up to a courtyard with perfectly manicured gardens, believed to have been designed by the renowned landscape architect Mirei Shigemori. 

Inside, you will find all the features associated with traditional Japanese inns, including tatami-matted rooms, sliding doors made of paper or wood, and low dining tables used for traditional multi-course kaiseki meals.

One notable point about this ryokan is its breakfast in-room service. You can also enjoy a delicious breakfast delivered directly to your room every morning. 

Muromachi Yutone Kyokoyado

Muromachi Yutone Kyokoyado is an excellent option for those looking for places to stay in Kyoto.

Located near the iconic International Manga Museum, this traditional Japanese ryokan stands out with its unique style and architecture. 

Its interior features a cozy atmosphere and classic furnishing, complete with tatami mats, shoji screens, and paper lanterns, making it one of the best places to experience a true slice of authentic Japanese culture.

The ryokan also features several unique amenities, such as onsite Japanese gardens and a lush courtyard filled with seasonal plants and flowers.

What makes Muromachi Yutone Kyokoyado stand out is its restaurant which serves delicious seasonal dishes and traditional kaiseki cuisine made from only the freshest ingredients. 

Furthermore, their onsen bath facility offers you the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind after a day exploring Kyoto’s temples and shrines.

Here you can take advantage of its outdoor stone bath or indulge in soothing spa treatments, including massage therapy.

Matsubaya Ryokan

Matsubaya Ryokan is a great place to stay if you’re looking for the perfect blend of classic style and modern amenities in Kyoto.

Located in the heart of the Kyoto station area, staying in this ryokan helps you explore the city easily, with plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. 

This charming ryokan is an excellent choice for those looking to experience life in an authentic Japanese home.

The interior of Matsubaya Ryokan is designed to evoke the feel of classic Japan, with tatami mats, shoji doors, and carefully chosen antiques used as decor.

You can choose from two types of rooms: modern Western-style or classic Japanese-style with futon beds on tatami mats.

The ryokan also offers air-conditioners and private baths with natural hot spring water. You can also enjoy breakfast served in the comfort of your own room. 

What makes Matsubaya Ryokan truly unique is its selection of amenities, including a lounge area, massage services, and an outdoor garden café.

The staff are friendly and helpful and are always willing to provide advice about the local area or provide restaurant recommendations for dinner nearby.

Toshiharu Ryokan

Toshiharu Ryokan is an excellent ryokan located in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.

It stands out from other Japanese accommodations thanks to its traditional architecture and cultural significance. 

Built in the Meiji era, this traditional inn serves as an important cultural asset and provides you with a unique experience of Japanese hospitality.

Many famous people visited this ryokan throughout its long history. 

The style of this ryokan is based on ancient Japanese designs, featuring sliding shoji doors, tatami-mat flooring, and low furniture pieces. The rooms are spacious yet cozy.

You can enjoy the open living space or relax in your private quarters.

The classic exterior provides a glimpse into the past, while on the inside, you can immerse yourself in traditional Japanese hospitality. 

Breakfast is served directly to each room in Toshiharu Ryokan every morning, providing delicious local dishes in the privacy of your own space.

Moreover, the accommodation offers various activities to partake in – from sushi-making classes to tea ceremonies – so you can get an authentic taste of Japanese culture. 

Additionally, there are plenty of sightseeing spots nearby for you to explore and restaurants offering delicious local food.

Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei

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. 

Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei‘s architecture reflects the Japanese Edo period building styles with simple yet comfortable furnishings and decor. 

The exterior of the building has been constructed with traditional Japanese aesthetics in mind.

The aesthetic is further emphasized by its comforting tatami mats and Japanese-style furnishings, which make anyone feel at home. 

The interior has been designed to reflect a calming atmosphere; from shoji screens to paper lanterns and natural wood furniture, each detail has been carefully chosen to create a peaceful environment.

The breakfast served at Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei is one of its biggest draws. It’s especially known for its delicious Japanese cuisine options from fresh ingredients from local farmers and markets.

Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo

Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo is one of the most popular ryokans in Kyoto that offers you an authentic and traditional experience.

Located near the iconic Nanzen-ji Temple, this ryokan has a classic style with modern touches to make your stay comfortable and welcoming. 

The architecture at Ryokan Yachiyo is unique and inviting, featuring traditional tatami mat flooring and sliding doors of Japanese paper screens. 

The garden at Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo is beautiful and peaceful, providing the perfect spot to relax after a long day of sightseeing.

It features gorgeous cherry blossom trees in springtime, offering you the chance to relax in the tranquil atmosphere of nature.

To make your stay even more special, do not forget to take advantage of ryokan’s onsen-style bathrooms and massage services.

Or visit the garden and onsite gift shop offering souvenirs from Kyoto.

You will also find plenty to enjoy at the restaurant onsite. Serving traditional kaiseki cuisine, you can sample some of Kyoto’s best flavors in a beautiful garden with views of Nanzen-ji Temple.

Kyoto Takasegawa Bettei

Kyoto Takasegawa Bettei is a traditional Japanese ryokan located in the center of Kyoto, offering stunning views of the Kamogawa River.

You will appreciate this peaceful yet central location near attractions such as Sanjusangen-do Temple and Heian Shrine.

This luxurious accommodation offers a unique experience unlike any other hotel or inn. The beautiful architecture, traditional style, and modern amenities make it an ideal place for anyone exploring all Kyoto offers.

The rooms at Takasegawa Bettei are stylishly decorated with modern amenities, including air conditioning and flat-screen TVs.

Every room has its own en suite bathroom, complete with complimentary toiletries.

For those looking for an extra bit of luxury, private outdoor hot spring baths are available onsite.

Notably, this ryokan features breakfast in the room. Each room comes with breakfast served directly to your door – a great way to start your day off right! 

The property also has an onsite currency exchange service that allows international travelers to access local currency quickly.

Exchange rates are competitively priced, and you don’t have to worry about finding a bank or ATM during your stay in Kyoto.

FAQs about Kyoto ryokans