Best Ryokans in Kyoto – What is a Ryokan you may ask? Well it’s a traditional style Japanese inn, where people can go to relax, bathe, and experience a traditional Japanese way of life.
Now if this does not sound interesting enough, experiencing this in Kyoto is even more unique as Kyoto in itself is a very old traditional type of city, so you are bound to feel very nostalgic in any Ryokan in Kyoto.
All ryokans’ will have some similarities, however the ones we will cover in this article all have their own unique individualities. We will list below our top 8 Ryokans you must visit in the city of Kyoto:
Ryokan Mugen (Adults Only)
As the title mentions, Ryokan Mugen is for adults only. We thought it was a good idea to include at least one adult only ryokan to cater to everyone, and what better adult only ryokan that Ryokan Mugen. This particular ryokan is right of the top drawer featuring an incredible location and based at a property that was constructed 160 years ago.
Furthermore, if you’re visiting Kyoto, you must also visit Nijo Castle, and luckily this ryokan is located only one kilometre away, no need for that big commute.
Finally, Ryokan Mugen is well known for its warm and friendly hospitality, while making their guests feel very welcome. This along with the fact that the property is very clean and modern while still maintaining a traditional feel, makes Ryokan Mugen feel very luxurious. To top it all off don’t forget that every room has its own ensuite, a really classy touch.
In summary Ryokan Mugen can be for any adult but really appeals to adults who appreciate the finer things in life.
Price: 1 night from ¥13,800 (1p.)
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/xm3VCbzzBA5WuZbU6
Yadoya Manjiro
Garden views galore at Yadoya Manjiro. Japan is famous for its Bonsai trees and beautiful gardens. You may not find Bonsai trees here, but you will sure find a beautiful selection of gardens to view. From the rooms you can see the gardens and it gives a very relaxing vibe, great for people who just want to relax in their room and take some time out.
Do ensure when you book that your room does indeed have a garden view if this is what you like.
In summary Yadoya Manjiro stands out due to its garden features, if you love your gardens and have a relaxing atmosphere this place is for you.
Price: 1 night from ¥13,000 (1p.)
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/94axrYdzuFjRMKJ49
Kyo no Yado Sangen Ninenzaka
Views, views and more views, don’t let the long name get you down. This Ryokan is very centrally located to the city and have some magnificent views to enjoy from the rooftop terrace. After all that walking and exploring you are likely to have done, you deserve to sit down, relax, have some tea and look out among the incredible views at the lounge area. You will have great views of the Higashiyama area, temples, mountains and much more. You may even be able to watch the sunset while relaxing.
Secondly even if views are not important to you this is still a quality Ryokan to experience in itself.
To conclude if you love your pictures views, don’t look past this Ryokan, it has some of the top-rated views in Kyoto.
Price: 1 night from ¥9,750 (1p.)
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/7HRi4uJEpha8DuuP8
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Yadoya Kikokuso
Rumour has it that this Ryokan has been operated by the dame family for 5 generations. One of the standouts here is the unique onsen, a must see with its unique design.
In addition, this property would be up there with the best in terms of a genuine traditional experience and its design. Big, spacious and very appealing to the eye. This property feels like a small traditional village, while still giving you the privacy of your own space when needed.
In conclusion, Yadoya is definitely the place for people who want big open spaces and the chance to roam around.
Price: 1 night from ¥11,000 (1p.)
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/48CYAXBEuucFCAEz5
Yuzuya Ryokan
Another luxurious one for those who it suits.
Yuzuya is definitely on the higher end of the price scale, however there is good reason for this. From this photo alone you can see the prestigious look that the place gives off with the beautifully polished wooden floors and antique furniture, however this is not all.
If you like luxury and want to experience traditional ryokan, then this place is for you, one of the finest ryokans.
Price: 1 night from ¥35,000 (1p.)
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/kiwawkkYffRE4xQd8
Seikoro Ryokan
Seikoro Ryokan is another one of the top Ryokans’ in Kyoto.
We have selected this particular property for the relaxation enthusiast in mind. The reason for this is that Seikoro features both a public bath and massage services. We figured that if you have been walking all day visiting temples and the town, or simply just want to relax for no reason at all, then Seikoro is perfect, you can bathe and then get a massage or the other way around.
Secondly, Seikoro is very reasonably priced for what it offers.
This could be the perfect Ryokan for those who want all the facilities at a reasonable price, without being too concerned around high end luxury.
Price: 1 night from ¥35,000 (1p.)
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/g2an8jRGwpxHXpkB9
Fujiya Ryokan
Fujiya has something quirky and different about it, so we could not leave it out.
This property has its very own cat. Yes, that’s right a pet cat who will roam around and possibly greet you when you arrive. The cats’ name is Lilly and fingers crossed you get the chance to meet her. She is very cute and is a trademark to the property.
Fujiya obviously also offers the traditional ryokan experience. It is great for the budget conscious traveller who is keen to experience the basic ryokan facilities, while meeting Lilly the cat.
To sum it up in a few words, budget friendly, and cat lovers are the target market for Fujiya!
Price: 1 night from ¥4,600 (1p.)
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Ux8YyVVj81AFnLpC8
Muromachi Yutone Kyokoyado
Last but not least we have picked this Ryokan for you, as this has got to be one of if not the most beautiful looking Ryokans’ in Kyoto. From the front entrance to the rest of the property, Muromachi is quite outstanding.
This tranquil property is very quiet and peaceful in the sense that it only has 7 rooms, and it has a very exclusive feel to it. Almost like a celebrity retreat to get away from it all.
Something else which stands out about this property is the food served at the restaurant on site. The quality vs the price is well worth it. You will be sure to receive food of some of the highest quality in Japan.
This property appeals to food enthusiasts, who love to relax and don’t want to blow the budget, while retaining a premier experience.
Price: 1 night from ¥40,000 (1p.)
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/uZW9ZyYide14xNvi7
Conclusion – Best Ryokans in Kyoto
No matter what Ryokan you go to in Kyoto or Japan, you are bound to have an incredible experience, however we have listed the above Ryokans’ as we feel these are the best of the best in Kyoto.
With all of the Ryokans’ mentioned you will experience a traditional nostalgic environment along with quality property features and friendly hospitality. Anyone can visit any of the Ryokans mentioned, however we have recommended which Ryokan appeals most to each particular type of person. The only exception here is Cats and Adults, don’t turn up at Fujiya if you don’t like Cats, or Ryokan Mugen if you’re not an adult.
Don’t forget to not only soak up the atmosphere of the Ryokans’ but also Kyoto as a city, as both the Ryokans’ and the city itself are traditional Japan at its finest.
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You missed one of the best in Kyoto: Hiiragiya.