The Ultimate Guide to Ryokans in Kyoto

We'll also provide tips on choosing the proper ryokan for your needs and what to expect during your stay.
Mas Bellboy
26 Sep 2023 - 6 min read

Japan has a very thick culture and is known internationally for its uniqueness. Kyoto is one of the cities in Japan that plays an essential role in history and maintaining tradition. Until now, there are many places to stay in Kyoto in the form of Ryokan, which provides complete Japanese-style lodging packages.

These traditional Japanese accommodations usually include tatami mats, authentic Japanese dishes, yukata, futons, and onsen. In this article, we will explore Ryokan in Kyoto, giving you a unique experience during your stay.

Where to stay in Kyoto with the traditional Japanese style is usually offered at quite a variety of prices so that you can adjust it according to your budget.

Best Budget Ryokans in Kyoto

1. Gion Hatanaka

Address: 505 Yasaka Shrine Minamimonmae, Gion, Higashiyama-ku, Gion, Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto

Price: start from S$ 314.47 per night

If you want to spend less time finding a cheap but easy-to-reach Ryokan, choose Gion Hatanaka. Its location in the heart of Gion in the geisha district of Kyoto makes this Ryokan easy to find.

Every corner of the room offers a true Japanese Ryokan, complete with authentic tatami mats. Its location beside a lush garden makes staying at this Ryokan peaceful. Her favorite part is the authentic dishes, including the Kaiseki meal and Japanese tea set.

You can visit several famous landmarks from Gion Hatanaka, including the Yasaka Shrine. The best time to come is at night because there are dance performances on the stage with hundreds of lit lanterns.

2. Sasaya-an

Address: 289 Sasaya 4-chome, Kamigyo-ku, Nishijin, Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto

Price: start from S$ 282.58 per night

To be precise, you can find other affordable ryokans in the Nishijin area, in Sasaya-an. This building, with almost all its parts made of wood, makes the stay more comfortable. Moreover, its location, far from the city center, makes this Ryokan a peaceful place to rest.

To be more private, you can stay with your family by choosing a personal vacation package. The futons provided make the Ryokan atmosphere make you feel like you are living in a traditional Japanese house.

From this Ryokan, walk to Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, one of the city's oldest and most important shrines. The highlight is the ume (plum tree) forest area which blooms from the end of February to March. Even though Japan is famous for the beauty of Sakura, it turns out that plum trees are no less popular.

3. Ryokan Kohro

Address: Rokkaku kita higashi kado, Sakaimachi St., Nakagyo, Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto

Price: start from S$ 256.92 per night

Ryokan Kohro can also be an option for a traditional Japanese stay with a minimal budget. Even so, you will still get complete facilities in the Traditional Private room equipped with a futon.

As you would expect when staying at a Ryokan, you will get a delicious Kaiseki meal. They also offer tea service, which fits perfectly with this authentic, traditional atmosphere. Even so, you can still do exciting activities at this Ryokan because there are karaoke facilities.

If you want to get around, you can visit Rokkakudo Temple on foot or go to another place from Karasuma Station. Besides Rokakkudo Temple, there is also the Ikebana Museum, a place to see collections and learn the art of flower arrangement.

Ryokan Kohro

Rokkaku kita higashi kado,Sakaimachi St., Nakagyo-ku

SGD 245

SGD 237

Best Luxury Ryokans in Kyoto

1. The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto

Address: Kamogawa Nijo-Ohashi Hotori, Nakagyo-ku, Nakagyo, Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto

Price: start from S$ 2,007.08 per night

This luxurious ryokan is easy to find, located in the heart of Kyoto and close to a shopping center. The Ritz-Carlton has a strategic location and can reach other famous city attractions and public transportation only by walking.

From the several rooms available with various views such as the garden and the city. You should choose a river or mountain view to make it quieter and fits this theme. Not all rooms are equipped with tatami mats and futons so you need to choose wisely for the best experience.

There are also other facilities that you can use, including a fitness center, bar, and indoor pool. You can also get relaxation services such as a sauna and spa, which are very comfortable to restore energy.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto

Kamogawa Nijo-Ohashi Hotori, Nakagyo-ku

SGD 2,921

SGD 2,190

2. Hoshinoya Kyoto

Address: 11-2 Arashiyamagenrokuzan-cho, Kyoto, Arashiyama, Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto

Price: start from S$ 3,244.54 per night

Hoshinoya Kyoto is located in a remote valley on the outskirts of Kyoto, presenting a serene atmosphere. Perfect for those who want to seclude themselves from the hustle and bustle city. You can see stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and it is still beautiful with very fresh air.

However, this inn is close to tourist attractions such as Okochi Sanso Garden, which can be visited with the family. You can also travel easily by walking about 300 meters to Torokko Arashiyama Station.

Enjoy authentic traditional Japanese experiences with authentic settings such as tea ceremonies and gardens. Serving traditional Japanese food is also quite diverse, with the Yamanoha room being the favorite.

3. Togetsutei

Address: 54-4 Arashiyamanakaoshita, Nishikyo, Arashiyama, Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto

Price: start from S$ 542.33 per night

Togetsutei can also be an option if you are looking for a luxurious Ryokan so that the experience of staying Japanese is truly felt, especially if you choose the Mountain Side with Hinoki Bathroom type equipped with Futons.

Enjoy the atmosphere of your stay by relaxing to see the fantastic scenery in a comfortable place. Most of these buildings are made of wood and bamboo, making them even more authentic.

If you occasionally want to go back to experiencing modern life, walk towards Arashiyama Station to get to other tourist spots. Or the closest option with a distance of fewer than 100 meters can visit Iwatayama Monkey Park to interact with monkeys and other animals.

Tips for Choosing a Ryokan

1. Consider your budget

Choosing comfortable accommodations during the holidays is necessary, especially if you want to experience a unique experience like in a Ryokan. But you need to have a specific budget to estimate the capabilities you have.

No need to worry because Ryokan prices vary widely from affordable to luxurious with various facilities. So you will still get the best experience based on your abilities or budget without forcing it.

It is also very easy to find information about this price because it can be done online through Traveloka. Thus you have to find complete information and decide according to various considerations.

2. Think about your preferences

Think again about what you wanted, including your vacation destination. Do you want to stay at a Ryokan in the city's heart or somewhere more remote? Each one has advantages and disadvantages, so you have to consider it.

Ryokan in the city center will make it easy to reach public places, but it may be expensive. Whereas Ryokan in remote locations may be more affordable, the atmosphere will be calmer. The view of the city center and the view of remote areas will also be different.

3. Read reviews

Once you've narrowed your choices, read reviews from other travelers to get their insights on the ryokan you're considering. You can find reviews from previous visitors on several official online sites, including Traveloka.

What to Expect During Your Stay

1. Check-in

When you arrive at your ryokan, you will be greeted by a friendly staff member who will show you to your room. You will be given a yukata (traditional Japanese robe) to wear during your stay. They will also direct you to take off your footwear and store them on the shelves provided.

2. Dinner

Dinner is usually served in the dining room with a table, without chairs so you can sit on the floor. You will enjoy a multi-course meal featuring traditional Japanese dishes such as a Kaiseki meal. Some Ryokan also offer facilities to enjoy authentic Japanese-style tea with a unique way of serving and quality tea.

3. Breakfast

Breakfast is usually served in your room, which may vary for some places or according to the package. You will enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast of rice, miso soup, and pickled vegetables.

4. Bathing

Ryokan usually has communal baths, most also equipped with hot water. You will enjoy a relaxing soak in the tub before bed to relax your body. If you want to be more private, several ryokans provide private onsen.

Those are the reviews about Ryokan, from Ryokan's choices based on budget to tips for choosing one. You don't need to worry about the price because you can adjust it according to your budget with the expectations of the facilities you want. Immediately start a unique and unforgettable stay in Kyoto by booking a Ryokan at Traveloka.

If you want to book accommodation, flight tickets, and travel activities you can get the best price from Traveloka.

Discover additional insights and details about Kyoto:

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