Planning a trip to Kyoto? Immerse yourself in Japanese culture by staying at a traditional ryokan. From tatami-mat rooms to kaiseki cuisine, discover the best ryokan accommodations in Kyoto’s most charming neighborhoods.
In this guide, we introduce carefully selected ryokan in Kyoto, organized by area, to help you find the perfect place to stay. Whether you prefer to be near bustling downtown streets or nestled in a quiet temple district, there’s a ryokan for you.
What Is a Ryokan?
A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn, often featuring:
- Tatami-mat rooms
- Futon bedding
- Japanese-style meals (kaiseki)
- Communal baths or onsen (hot springs)
- A peaceful, culturally immersive atmosphere
Staying at a ryokan is not just accommodation—it’s an experience in itself.
Kyoto Ryokan by Area
1. Kyoto Central Area (Around Kawaramachi, Shijo, and Karasuma Streets)
This area is the heart of Kyoto, ideal for first-time visitors. It’s filled with shops, restaurants, and easy transportation access. From here, you can walk to places like Nishiki Market, Pontocho Alley, and the Kamo River.
Kyono Yado Hokkaikan Ohanabo – Discover the Heart of Kyoto

If you’re looking for a cozy and authentic Japanese experience in Kyoto, Kyono Yado Hokkaikan Ohanabo is a wonderful place to stay. This charming ryokan has long been a favorite among travelers, and it’s easy to see why.
Perfect Location for Exploring Kyoto
Just a 5-minute walk from Kyoto Station, Ohanabo is ideally situated for sightseeing. Whether you’re planning to visit famous temples, explore the streets of Gion, or enjoy a stroll around the city, this location is incredibly convenient. It’s especially popular among solo travelers thanks to its easy access and welcoming atmosphere.
Warm Hospitality That Feels Like Home
One of the standout features of Ohanabo is the exceptional hospitality provided by the staff. Their thoughtful service and attention to detail have earned the ryokan high praise in guest reviews. You’ll feel truly cared for from the moment you arrive.
Delicious Traditional Cuisine
Guests can look forward to a beautifully presented kaiseki-style dinner full of seasonal colors and flavors. The breakfast is just as delightful—especially the homemade tofu, which is gentle on the stomach and a soothing way to start the day. These heartfelt touches make every meal special.
A Relaxing Bath Experience
After a day of sightseeing, enjoy a soak in the ryokan’s wooden bath, accompanied by a small courtyard garden and seasonal flowers. The gentle scent of wood and the peaceful view help wash away fatigue, leaving you refreshed and relaxed.
A Thoughtful Stay in Every Detail
From its design to its service, Ohanabo offers a serene atmosphere where you can unwind in true Japanese style. Whether you’re traveling alone or with a companion, you’ll find comfort, tradition, and genuine hospitality here.
Kyono Yado Hokkaikan Ohanabo
- Address: 66-2 Takeya-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto (in front of Higashi Honganji Temple)
- Map: Google map
- Access: 5-minute walk from JR Kyoto Station
- Phone: +81-75-371-3688
- Check-in: 16:00–19:00
- Check-out: 10:00
- Rate: From ¥21,740 for two guests with breakfast (tax included: ¥23,914〜)
- Note: Please inquire in advance if traveling with preschool-aged children.
Hiiragiya Ryokan – A Beloved Historic Inn

For those seeking a truly refined and authentic Kyoto experience, Hiiragiya Ryokan is one of the city’s most treasured hidden gems. Alongside the renowned Tawaraya Ryokan, Hiiragiya is considered one of the “Three Great Traditional Ryokan of Kyoto.”
Over 200 Years of History and Hospitality
Founded in 1818, Hiiragiya has been welcoming guests for over two centuries. The ryokan features a beautiful two-story wooden main building in the traditional sukiya style, alongside a newer wing completed in 2006, for a total of 28 meticulously maintained rooms.
The architecture and atmosphere transport you to another era, yet the facilities are fully modern—creating a harmonious blend of historical beauty and contemporary comfort.
A Favorite Among Cultural Icons
Hiiragiya has long been cherished by notable figures, including famed novelist Yasunari Kawabata, who once wrote:
“The charm of Hiiragiya lies in its unpretentiousness and constancy—qualities of the old capital. Though it has long held prestige, it never feels imposing. In Kyoto, inns have always been places of warmth and calm, but even that is changing. The restraint of Hiiragiya now feels rare.”
This spirit of gentle hospitality still defines Hiiragiya today. The staff’s discreet and thoughtful service strikes the perfect balance—always attentive, never intrusive.
A Morning Feast of Kyoto Delicacies
One of the highlights of staying at Hiiragiya is the exquisite Japanese breakfast. Every dish is carefully prepared using seasonal ingredients and traditional methods. A standout is the yudofu (hot tofu), served in a wooden tub and warmed over charcoal—simple yet elegant, and full of Kyoto flavor.
You’ll also enjoy simmered vegetables and Kyoto-style dishes that reflect the region’s culinary heritage. Western-style breakfast is also available upon request when booking.
Hiiragiya Ryokan
- Address: Nakahakusan-cho, Fuyacho Anekoji-agaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto 604-8094
- Map: Google Map
- Access:
- 7-minute walk from Karasuma Oike Station (Karasuma Line)
- 5-minute walk from Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station (Tozai Line)
- 10-minute walk from Keihan Sanjo Station
- 10-minute walk from Hankyu Karasuma Station
- Phone: +81-75-221-1136
- Check-in: 15:00–19:30
- Check-out: 11:00
- Rate: From ¥54,000 for two guests with breakfast (tax included: ¥59,400〜)
Staying at Hiiragiya is more than just booking a room—it’s a journey into Kyoto’s refined past, where elegance, tradition, and peace of mind come together in perfect harmony.
Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St. – A Hidden World of Elegance

For travelers who want to immerse themselves in Kyoto’s traditional charm with a modern twist, Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St. is a captivating choice. Operated by the same team behind Nazuna Kyoto Nijo-jo, this ryokan opened in April 2020, and offers a stay unlike any other.
A Townhouse Village Transformed into a Luxury Ryokan
What makes this property truly unique is its layout—a collection of 23 restored machiya (traditional Kyoto townhouses), each over 110 years old, beautifully renovated and connected through a private stone-paved alley. Each townhouse has been turned into an independent guest room, complete with a semi-open-air bath.
As you walk past the reception building and enter the inner pathway, you’ll feel as if you’ve slipped into the Meiji era. At dusk, lanterns and lamps light the cobbled street, creating an enchanting atmosphere that feels like a scene from a historical movie—perfect for memorable photos.
Inspired by Nature, Crafted for Comfort
The rooms are divided into two types, each themed around the natural beauty of Kyoto:
- Luxury Rooms (9 total) with themes of bamboo and water
- Deluxe Rooms (14 total) themed around stone, flowers, and leaves
Each room has its own unique interior design and layout, allowing guests to enjoy a different expression of Kyoto’s aesthetic. From your living area, you can gaze out through glass onto your private semi-open-air bath, ideal for a relaxing soak at the end of a day of exploring.
A Taste of Zen for Breakfast
For breakfast, guests can enjoy Shojin Ryori (traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) provided by the long-established restaurant Izusen.
This delicate and beautifully presented meal uses only grains, beans, and vegetables—no meat or fish—and keeps seasonings minimal to let the natural flavors shine. It’s a culinary expression of Zen philosophy and Kyoto’s deep-rooted food culture.
Note: Breakfast must be reserved by 4:00 PM the day before.
Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St.
- Address: 838 Bomoncho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto 600-8388
- Map: Google Map
- Access: 5-minute walk from Omiya Station (Hankyu Kyoto Line)
- Phone: +81-75-748-0402
- Check-in: 15:00–21:00
- Check-out: 11:00
- Rate: From ¥42,000 per night for two guests (tax included: ¥46,200〜, meals not included)
Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St. offers a one-of-a-kind blend of tradition, luxury, and artistry. Whether you’re looking to enjoy Kyoto’s craftsmanship, soak in a private bath, or take in the soft glow of lantern-lit paths, this ryokan delivers a truly unforgettable stay.
2. Eastern Kyoto Area (Gion, Kiyomizu-dera, Higashiyama)
This area is filled with iconic temples like Kiyomizu-dera and Yasaka Shrine, as well as the historic streets of Gion where you might spot a maiko (apprentice geisha). Staying here means being immersed in the traditional atmosphere of old Kyoto.
Check out our guide to the top tourist spots in the Eastern Kyoto Area!
Gion Shinmonso – Experience Kyoto’s Warm Hospitality

If you’re planning your first trip to Kyoto or looking for a family-friendly place with authentic Japanese charm, Gion Shinmonso is a fantastic choice. Offering a great balance of comfort, cultural experiences, and convenience—all at a reasonable price—this ryokan provides an unforgettable Kyoto stay.
Prime Location in the Heart of Gion
Located right in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Gion district, the ryokan is within walking distance of famous landmarks like Yasaka Shrine and Kodaiji Temple. Even without a car, sightseeing is easy thanks to the excellent access to public transportation.
Authentic Kyoto Experiences Without Leaving the Ryokan
One of Gion Shinmonso’s greatest strengths is its range of Kyoto-only cultural experiences. Inside the ryokan, guests can participate in traditional activities such as:
- Making your own scented sachets (nioi-bukuro)
- Maiko entertainment plans, where guests can enjoy games and performances with an apprentice geisha
Just across the street, you’ll find Yume Kobo Gion, where you can try a maiko makeover experience—a unique way to step into Kyoto’s graceful culture. Since it’s directly in front of the ryokan, getting there is quick and hassle-free.
A Variety of Room Types for Every Traveler
Gion Shinmonso offers a wide selection of Japanese-style rooms to meet different needs:
- Rooms with views of the Shirakawa River, perfect for a peaceful and scenic stay
- Barrier-free rooms designed for elderly guests
- Spacious rooms up to 16 tatami mats in size, ideal for families or groups
Recently renovated rooms feature stylish modern Japanese design, offering a fresh and elegant atmosphere.
Refined Kaiseki Dining and Family-Friendly Options
Dinner and breakfast are both included in the stay, with meals focused on beautifully crafted kaiseki cuisine that reflects Kyoto’s culinary traditions. For families traveling with kids, children’s dinner options are also available.
After a day of sightseeing, guests can unwind in the large public bath, a relaxing way to end the evening.
Gion Shinmonso
- Address: Shinmonzen-dori, Hanamikoji, Gion, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0082
- Map: Google Map
- Access:
- 5-minute walk from Keihan Sanjo Station
- 5-minute walk from Subway Sanjo Keihan Station
- From Kyoto Station, take City Bus #206 and get off at Chion-in-mae, 3 minutes on foot
- Phone: +81-75-561-8011
- Check-in: 16:00–19:00
- Check-out: 10:00
- Rate: From ¥38,000 per person per night with dinner and breakfast (tax included: ¥41,800〜)
- Note: No room service available
Gion Shinmonso combines the beauty of Kyoto’s traditions with thoughtful hospitality, making it a perfect base for travelers seeking cultural depth, comfort, and convenience.
Kyo no Oyado Yutone – Discover Tranquility and Elegance

Tucked away in the historical Higashiyama district, Kyo no Oyado Yutone is a serene hideaway for those who want to immerse themselves in Kyoto’s traditional charm while enjoying peaceful, intimate accommodations.
Perfect Location for Exploring Kyoto’s Cultural Gems
This elegant ryokan is ideally located within a 10-minute walk of major Kyoto landmarks such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, and the colorful Yasaka Koshindo Temple. It’s the perfect base for discovering the ancient streets and spiritual atmosphere of the city’s east side.
As you arrive, a traditional gate welcomes you, setting the tone for the refined experience that awaits inside.
Just Seven Rooms – An Exclusive and Quiet Retreat
With only seven guest rooms, Yutone offers an exceptionally calm and private environment. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a quiet, restful stay away from the crowds.
Each room is equipped with its own luxurious hinoki (Japanese cypress) bath, providing a deeply relaxing, fragrant bathing experience. Unlike a shared public bath, this private soak lets you unwind at your own pace in the comfort of your room.
Even the washbasins are crafted with care—custom-made and finished with beautiful Japanese lacquer, reflecting the attention to detail that runs throughout the ryokan.
Plan Your Kyoto Journey at the Library Lounge
Inside the ryokan, you’ll find a cozy library lounge, where you can browse through travel books and guides about Kyoto. Tea and coffee are always available, making it a perfect space to relax and plan your day’s adventures.
Whether you’re a solo traveler or a couple seeking a blend of convenient sightseeing and quiet luxury, Yutone is an excellent choice.
Kyo no Oyado Yutone
- Address: 413 Minami-cho, Shimogawara-dori, Kodaiji-shita, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0824
- Map: Google Map
- Access:
- From JR Kyoto Station, take City Bus #206 or #100 and get off at Kiyomizu-michi, then walk about 5 minutes
- Phone: +81-75-533-6226
- Check-in: 14:00–19:30
- Check-out: 11:00
- Rate: From ¥37,000 per night for two guests (tax included: ¥40,700〜, no meals)
- Notes:
- Children under school age are not allowed
- No room service available
Kyo no Oyado Yutone is the perfect blend of traditional Japanese hospitality, elegant design, and a quiet atmosphere, offering a refined Kyoto experience that’s hard to forget.
3. Western Kyoto Area (Arashiyama, Saga, Katsura)
Arashiyama is known for its scenic beauty, especially the bamboo grove, river views, and Tenryu-ji Temple. It’s a peaceful area, ideal for nature lovers.
Check out our guide to the top tourist spots in the Western Kyoto Area!
Kadensho Arashiyama Onsen – Experience Relaxation and Elegance

Just a short walk from the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge in Kyoto’s scenic Arashiyama area, Kadensho Arashiyama Onsen is a beautiful hot spring ryokan beloved by women travelers for its blend of traditional charm and soothing hospitality.
A Traditional Welcome with Kyoto Flair
Upon checking in at the front desk, guests remove their shoes and walk along tatami-covered hallways—a quiet, calming introduction to the authentic ryokan experience.
There are three distinct styles of guest rooms to choose from:
- Kyo Machiya (Kyoto townhouse style)
- Kyo Wafu (traditional Japanese style)
- Kyo Modern (a fusion of modern comfort and Kyoto aesthetics)
Each room is thoughtfully designed with carefully selected furniture, bedding, room wear, tea sets, and incense to help you fully unwind during your Arashiyama getaway.
Elegant Yukata and Comfortable Room Wear
A major hit among female guests is the colorful yukata (casual kimono), which you can borrow for free. These are available in limited numbers, so they’re offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
The rooms also come with samue (relaxing Japanese loungewear), ideal for strolling between the baths.
Kyoto Kaiseki and Seasonal Delights
Dinner at Kadensho features a seasonal kaiseki meal based on the concept of “one soup and five dishes.” Guests can enjoy a variety of Kyoto-style side dishes and freshly made tempura served à la carte buffet style, so you can taste a little bit of everything—fresh and hot from the kitchen.
This format is especially popular with women who prefer smaller portions of many delicious options.
Relax in Arashiyama’s Soothing Hot Springs
Kadensho’s main bath, Heian no Yu, is a mildly alkaline natural hot spring, known for its soothing effects on neuralgia, muscle pain, bruises, joint issues, and even beautifying the skin.
For those who enjoy bath-hopping, there’s a special Yumeguri Koji area featuring five unique private baths. No reservation is needed—just check if the “In Use” lamp is off, and you can enter. It’s an easy and casual way to enjoy different bathing experiences.
There are also three open-air baths, where you can soak while breathing in the fresh mountain air of Arashiyama—an ideal way to end a day of sightseeing.
Kadensho Arashiyama Onsen
- Address: 5-4 Arashiyama Nishikawa-cho, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto 616-0003
- Map: Google Map
- Access:
- 1 minute walk from Hankyu Arashiyama Station
- 20 minutes walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station
- Phone: +81-75-863-4455
- Check-in: 15:00–20:00
- Check-out: 10:00
- Rate: From ¥28,000 per night for two guests (tax included: ¥30,800〜, no meals)
Whether you’re planning a girls’ trip or simply want to unwind in Kyoto’s most picturesque district, Kadensho Arashiyama Onsen offers a perfect blend of relaxation, beauty, and Kyoto tradition.
HOSHINOYA Kyoto – A Luxurious Riverside Escape in Arashiyama

Tucked away in the scenic mountains of Arashiyama, HOSHINOYA Kyoto is a luxury ryokan that offers a truly unique experience—where Kyoto’s timeless beauty meets sophisticated modern design. Once a private villa, the building has been carefully renovated, preserving its traditional elegance while transforming it into a chic Japanese-modern retreat.
Arriving by Boat or Mountain Path
Getting to the ryokan is part of the adventure. Guests can choose to walk along a peaceful mountain path beside the Oi River, or board a private boat operated by HOSHINOYA, which glides along the water with stunning views of Arashiyama’s forested hills. The journey itself sets the tone for a tranquil, nature-infused stay.
Riverfront Rooms with Breathtaking Views
All guest rooms face the Oi River, providing soothing water views and a deep sense of calm. Among them, the “Tsukibashi” room is especially renowned for its exceptional scenery. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a companion, the refined interiors and riverside ambiance invite you to relax and reconnect with nature.
Each room blends minimalist beauty with Kyoto-style sophistication—carefully curated décor, soft lighting, and views that shift with the seasons.
Kyoto Cuisine Reinvented
Meals at HOSHINOYA Kyoto are a true highlight. The kaiseki-style dinners draw inspiration from Kyoto’s time-honored culinary traditions but introduce innovative touches to surprise and delight the senses. Each dish is not only flavorful but visually exquisite—designed to be savored with both the palate and the eyes.
In spring, guests can enjoy breakfast in the floating teahouse, surrounded by blooming cherry blossoms. In summer, the kawadoko-style dining (over the river) offers a cool, elegant way to experience Kyoto’s seasonal charm.
Enriching Activities for Mind and Body
HOSHINOYA Kyoto isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a place to rejuvenate and explore Kyoto’s cultural depth. The ryokan offers a variety of adults-only experiences, including tech-free wellness programs and cultural activities inspired by Kyoto traditions.
Whether you’re meditating by the river, sipping tea with a view, or enjoying creative seasonal experiences, every detail is designed to help you slow down and savor the moment.
HOSHINOYA Kyoto
- Address: 11-2 Genrokuzan-cho, Arashiyama, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto 616-0007
- Map: Google Map
- Access:
- 6-minute walk from Hankyu Arashiyama Station
- 7-minute walk from Keifuku Arashiyama Station
- Walk or taxi from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station
- Phone: +81-570-871-0001 (For emergencies or same-day contact: 075-871-0001)
- Check-in: From 16:00
- Check-out: By 10:00
- Rate: ¥23,562–51,051 per person (including tax: ¥25,918–56,156 per person, based on double occupancy)
- Notes:
- Children under elementary school age are not permitted
- Entry is limited to registered guests only
If you’re looking for a refined, immersive escape that combines Kyoto’s historic charm with serene natural beauty, HOSHINOYA Kyoto is the perfect riverside sanctuary to indulge your senses.
Arashiyama Onsen Togetsutei – A Historic Ryokan by the Famous Togetsukyo Bridge

If you’re seeking a traditional Japanese ryokan experience in one of Kyoto’s most scenic areas, Arashiyama Onsen Togetsutei is the perfect choice. Located just south of the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama, this long-established ryokan has been welcoming guests since 1897 (Meiji 30).
Togetsutei is more than just a place to stay—it’s a cultural retreat where you can relax, dine, and soak in the timeless beauty of Kyoto’s changing seasons.
Three Unique Buildings with Their Own Charm
Togetsutei consists of three distinct buildings:
- Hekisenkaku – Situated by the river, offering calming water views.
- Shuzankaku – Tucked against the mountainside, this building features a large natural hot spring bath, one of the few in Kyoto, first opened in 2004.
- Shofukaku – A dining hall and annex famous for its tofu and yuba kaiseki cuisine, showcasing the culinary heritage of Arashiyama.
Each building has its own atmosphere, allowing guests to choose their preferred setting—whether riverside tranquility, mountainside seclusion, or a culinary-focused stay.
Immerse Yourself in Nature All Year Round
One of Togetsutei’s greatest charms is its close connection to nature. The ryokan is perfectly positioned to enjoy Kyoto’s iconic seasonal beauty:
- Spring – Cherry blossoms frame the river and mountains.
- Early Summer – Lush greenery and traditional ukai (cormorant fishing) on the river.
- Autumn – Fiery red and gold foliage transform the landscape.
- Winter – Snowy views offer a serene, dreamlike experience.
A Variety of Rooms to Suit Every Style
Togetsutei offers a range of rooms, including:
- Rooms with cypress wood bathtubs
- Semi-open-air bath rooms
- Rooms with private open-air baths
Views vary depending on the room type, and the diverse room plans allow guests to match their stay to their budget and preferences.
Traditional Kaiseki Dining in the Comfort of Your Room
Dinner at Togetsutei is usually served in-room, allowing for a relaxed, private dining experience. Guests can savor authentic Kyoto kaiseki cuisine, with dishes crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients.
For breakfast, don’t miss the abundant morning meal featuring tofu from Morika, one of Arashiyama’s most famous tofu makers. (Note: Guests staying in Shuzankaku may be served breakfast in the dining hall.)
Arashiyama Onsen Togetsutei
- Address: 54-4 Nakao-shita-cho, Arashiyama, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto 616-0004 (just south of Togetsukyo Bridge)
- Map: Google Map
- Access:
- 5-minute walk from Hankyu Arashiyama Station
- 5-minute walk from Keifuku Arashiyama Station (Randen)
- 15-minute walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station
- 1-minute walk from Arashiyama Park or Nakanoshima Park bus stops
- Phone: +81-75-871-1310
- Check-in: Between 16:00 and 19:00
- Check-out: By 10:00
- Rate: From ¥20,000 per night for two guests (including tax: from ¥22,000, no meals)
Whether you’re soaking in a private open-air bath, admiring the view from your room, or enjoying seasonal Kyoto cuisine, Arashiyama Onsen Togetsutei offers a peaceful and memorable stay surrounded by the natural beauty of Arashiyama.
4. Southern Kyoto Area (Fushimi, Kyoto Station, Uji)
This area includes major transportation hubs and unique cultural spots like Fushimi Inari Shrine and Uji’s Byodoin Temple. It’s great for travelers who want convenient access and spiritual sights.
Check out our guide to the top tourist spots in the Southern Kyoto Area!
Hanayashiki Ukifune-en – A Riverside Escape in Scenic Uji

If you’re looking to experience the calm beauty of Kyoto beyond the city center, Hanayashiki Ukifune-en offers a truly tranquil stay in Uji, a town famed for its green tea and historical charm. This traditional ryokan, established in 1894 (Meiji 27), is beautifully nestled along the banks of the Uji River, offering river views from every room.
From the moment you enter, the ambiance invites you to slow down and embrace the seasons—cherry blossoms in spring, the sparkling river in summer, fiery red foliage in autumn, and snow-dusted landscapes in winter. It’s the kind of place where time seems to stand still.
A Picture-Perfect View of Uji
One of the most memorable features of Hanayashiki Ukifune-en is the view of “Tō-no-shima”, a small island in the Uji River. Framed by nature, it looks like a scene straight from a traditional Japanese painting. Many writers and artists have found inspiration here over the years—even the famous painter Yumeji Takehisa was drawn to this spot.
Thoughtfully Designed Rooms with Seasonal Touches
During my stay, I chose the Superior Twin Room “YAMABUKI”, and it was unforgettable. The large windows opened directly onto the river, letting in not just the view, but the gentle sound of flowing water—a detail that made all the difference in creating a sense of peace.
I also loved the seasonal tea flowers placed in the room—a subtle yet meaningful gesture that showed the inn’s attention to detail and deep connection to Japanese culture.
Refined Dining with Uji River Views
The ryokan offers two distinctive dining experiences:
• SATORI (Chausato-ri) – A refined Japanese restaurant where you can enjoy Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine at a newly built counter, all while gazing out over the Uji River. On weekdays, there’s even a day-use plan that combines a mini kaiseki meal with a relaxing bath—perfect for a short cultural getaway.
• Steak Kappo Hanayashiki – Housed in a renovated tea room, this elegant steakhouse serves premium wagyu beef in a calm, traditional setting. It’s ideal for those seeking a blend of Japanese aesthetics and culinary indulgence.
Hanayashiki Ukifune-en
- Address: 20 Togawa, Uji, Kyoto 611-0021
- Map: Google Map
- Access: Free shuttle service from JR Uji Station or Keihan Uji Station
- Phone: +81-774-21-2126
- Check-in: 16:00–21:00
- Check-out: By 10:00
- Rate: From ¥13,272 per night for two guests (tax included: from ¥14,600, no meals)
Whether you’re strolling along the river, sipping tea in your room, or enjoying seasonal cuisine with a view, Hanayashiki Ukifune-en offers an authentic Kyoto experience wrapped in the quiet elegance of Uji.
5. Northern Kyoto Area (Kurama, Ohara, Kibune)
This is a more remote, nature-rich area known for spiritual power spots and hot springs. A great choice for those seeking tranquility and healing.
Check out our guide to the top tourist spots in the Northern Kyoto Area!
Miyamaso – A Hidden Retreat Deep in Kyoto’s Mountains

If you’re seeking a travel experience that takes you far beyond the usual tourist routes, Miyamaso is a rare treasure waiting to be discovered. Nestled deep in the mountains of Ōhara’s Daibuzan area, far from the bustle of Kyoto city, this secluded ryokan offers a peaceful, almost otherworldly escape into nature.
This is not the place for sightseeing or checking items off an itinerary. Instead, it’s where you come to slow down, to listen to silence, and to reconnect with nature in a deeply personal way. I still remember how breathtakingly quiet the surroundings were—so quiet, in fact, that you could hear the wind moving through the leaves and the river whispering nearby. It was the kind of stillness you don’t realize you’ve been craving until you find it.
Nature, Culture, and Cuisine in Perfect Harmony
At Miyamaso, the philosophy is simple: live with nature, not beside it. The meals reflect this spirit completely. Each dish is crafted using wild herbs and seasonal vegetables that the owner himself gathers fresh from the surrounding hills every morning, often incorporating fish and mountain delicacies. Dining around the irori (a traditional sunken hearth) counter, with the aroma of woodsmoke and freshly grilled ingredients, was one of the most peaceful and grounding experiences I’ve had in Japan.
It’s hard to describe just how nourishing the food felt—not only in taste but in spirit. It wasn’t just a meal, it was a memory being made.
A Place to Let Go
There’s something incredibly healing about staying at Miyamaso. Whether it’s watching the mist settle over the forest, or waking up to the sound of birdsong, every moment here feels like it belongs to another time. It’s a place that gently washes away modern stress, offering a kind of luxury that can’t be bought—the luxury of disconnection.
Note: This retreat is best suited for adults seeking serenity. Children under elementary school age are not allowed, and there is no room service—by design, to preserve the atmosphere of quiet simplicity.
Miyamaso
- Address: 375 Hanaseharachi-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 601-1102, Japan
- Map: Google Map
- Access:
- From Kitaōji Subway Station or Demachiyanagi Station (Keihan Line), take Kyoto Bus No. 32 bound for Hirogawara, and get off at Daibuzan-guchi.
- From there, a free shuttle bus is available to Miyamaso.
- Phone: +81-75-746-0231
- Check-in: 15:30–18:00
- Check-out: 10:30
- Rate: From ¥126,863 per night for two guests (tax included: ¥139,550), with dinner and breakfast included
- Note: No room service; children under elementary school age are not permitted.
Miyamaso is not just a place to stay—it’s a place to be. If you’re looking to experience the quiet soul of Kyoto, far from the crowds, this hidden retreat will give you memories that linger long after you leave.
Kifune Fujiya – A Timeless Stay in Kyoto’s Riverside Sanctuary

If you want to experience the true magic of Kifune, nestled in the northern mountains of Kyoto where the Kamo River begins, don’t just visit for a few hours—stay overnight. One of the best places to do that is Kifune Fujiya, a traditional ryokan located just steps from Kifune Shrine, and known as the birthplace of Kawadoko dining (riverside floor dining).
A Rich History Flowing with the River
The story of Kawadoko began here in the Taisho era, when the inn’s early-generation owner placed long, bench-like platforms called shōgi in the river to cool off and enjoy tea. Back then, meals were still served inside the inn. But by the early Showa period, guests began requesting to eat by the river, and post-war, this evolved into the beautiful dining style we now know—eating a full kaiseki course while seated above a flowing mountain stream.
When I visited during summer, the sensation of dipping my feet in the cool Kifune River while listening to the murmuring water below my seat was pure bliss. It felt like I had stepped into a scene from old Kyoto—graceful, calm, and deeply connected to nature.
Dining Like the Ancients
Kifune Fujiya has been specializing in river fish cuisine since the late Edo period (Tenpō era). The fish—like koi (carp), ayu (sweetfish), and unagi (eel)—are kept alive in the fresh waters of the Kifune River for up to a week to remove any odor and preserve flavor. The dishes reflect the origins of Kyoto cuisine, and enjoying a full kaiseki meal by the river, in the place where this tradition began, is an unforgettable experience.
In winter, when the area becomes blanketed in snow, the ryokan transforms into a cozy retreat. Beneath warm kotatsu tables, guests enjoy botan nabe (wild boar hotpot)—a perfect pairing with the crisp mountain air. Honestly, sipping hot broth while looking out at the snow-covered trees felt like entering a peaceful winter fairytale.
Kifune Fujiya
- Address: 40 Kuramakibune-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 601-1112, Japan
- Map: Google Map
- Access:
- From Demachiyanagi Station (Eizan Railway), take the train to Kibuneguchi Station (approx. 27 min).
- From there, a free shuttle bus is available to the ryokan.
- Phone: +81-75-741-2501
- Check-in: 16:00–18:00
- Check-out: 10:00
- Rate: From ¥38,000 per night for two guests (tax included: ¥41,800), includes dinner and breakfast
Kifune Fujiya isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a place to feel the rhythm of Kyoto’s ancient seasons, whether you’re listening to river birds in summer or watching snow fall on shrine lanterns in winter. If you’re looking for a Kyoto experience that flows gently between history and nature, this is where you’ll find it.
Final Tips for Booking a Ryokan in Kyoto
- Book early, especially during peak seasons (spring cherry blossom, autumn leaves).
- Check meal options—some ryokan offer dinner and breakfast, while others are room-only.
- Be mindful of etiquette, such as removing shoes indoors and being quiet in communal spaces.
- Not all ryokan have private bathrooms—check the room details before booking.
To make your trip to Kyoto even more special, use this article as a guide to find the perfect ryokan for your stay!
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