8 Best Ryokan in Kyoto you need to Book
If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful Kyoto and you’re looking for the best Ryokan in Kyoto. Here is a curated list of 8 best ryokan in Kyoto you need to know about.
Before diving in:
Unlock my secret weapon for exploring Tokyo—
My meticulously curated Google Maps guide was born from countless hours wandering these ancient streets. I’ve mapped every must-visit spot from this guide (plus dozens of hidden gems I couldn’t squeeze into the article), pinpointing precise locations of those easy-to-miss temple entrances and local-favorite restaurants. After testing this across multiple trips, I swear by this digital companion—simply tap any pin and let Google Maps guide you seamlessly between Kyoto’s layers. Skip the typical first-timer frustrations and navigate like an insider, with all my hard-won research right in your pocket.
Before diving in:
Unlock my secret weapon for exploring Kyoto—
My meticulously curated Google Maps guide was born from countless hours wandering these ancient streets. I’ve mapped every must-visit spot from this guide (plus dozens of hidden gems I couldn’t squeeze into the article), pinpointing precise locations of those easy-to-miss temple entrances and local-favorite restaurants. After testing this across multiple trips, I swear by this digital companion—simply tap any pin and let Google Maps guide you seamlessly between Kyoto’s layers. Skip the typical first-timer frustrations and navigate like an insider, with all my hard-won research right in your pocket.
As one of Japan’s most alluring destinations, Kyoto offers numerous excellent ryokans where you can experience renowned Japanese hospitality and cultural immersion.
Why work with us as your travel advisor?
Skip the endless hours of research and second-guessing. As your travel advisor, we transform the overwhelming planning process into a seamless experience, drawing from years of firsthand exploration and cultivated relationships with premier properties and local experts that secure you VIP treatment beyond what even elite status can provide. Enjoy exclusive perks including room upgrades, early check-in and late check-out, complimentary breakfast, resort credits, and priority service that elevate every stay. We are your north star to discover the hidden gems and unique experiences that truly make a journey memorable.
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If you want to handle the bookings yourself. While you won’t score those exclusive perks, here are my tried-and-tested booking platforms I personally recommend. Just Want the Hotel Perks? I‘ll book your hotel with all those juicy extras (hello, free breakfast and spa credits)—and you handle the rest of your itinerary. Zero pressure, maximum benefits. Simple as that. Contact us now
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But with so many ryokans to choose from, narrowing down the options can feel overwhelming. That’s where this list comes in handy
I recently visited Kyoto on my 3 week Japan itinerary and stayed at some of the city’s best ryokans. After careful consideration, these are my picks for the 8 absolute best ryokans in Kyoto that you need to book for your upcoming trip.
8 Best Ryokan in Kyoto You Need to Book
No Time to Read It All? Here are the Highlights:
- Tawaraya – Epitome of luxury right in Higashiyama-ku, unparalleled service
- Hiiragiya Ryokan – Refined elegance across from Tawaraya, lovely garden
- Nazuna Kyoto Nijo-jo– luxury suites with open air baths
- Hoshinoya – Only accessible by romantic boat ride, modern riverside ryokan
- Seikoro – Art nouveau décor, attentive staff, walk to top sites
- Yuzuya Ryokan – Yuzu fruit theme, steps from Yasaka Shrine
- Ryokan Genhouin – Exclusive retreat near philosophers’ path
- Kikusui – Nanzen-ji Temple area, excellent cuisine
- Yoshida Sanso – Peaceful hilltop location near gorgeous temples
- Nazuna Kyoto Gosho – Short walk to Imperial Palace Park
Keep reading for more details on each exceptional property in this list of the 10 best ryokans in Kyoto.
No time to read it all? Here is my recommendation of
book the #1 best Ryokan in Kyoto
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8 Best Ryokan in Kyoto
Seikoro – Best Ryokans kyoto
Rokan| Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
All guest rooms boast garden views and beautiful hinoki cypress soaking tubs. The attentive staff ensures your stay is comfortable while respecting privacy. It’s walking distance to the subway, Kiyomizu-dera, Gion nightlife district, and other top sites.
Highlights:
- Attentive service
- Lovely décor and artifacts
- Comfortable with foreign guests
- Short walk to subway, Kiyomizu-dera and Gion
Yuzuya- top ryokan in kyoto with private onsen
Each room has been individually decorated with an authentic yuzu motif. In additional to modern amenities like WiFi, the Yuzuya offers ultimate traditional hospitality with exquisite multi-course dinners featuring seasonal Kyoto-style cuisine. It’s a magical sanctuary and one of the most convenient locations for sightseeing.
Highlights:
- One of the best locations in Kyoto
- Yuzu fruit theme
- Great food
- Steps from top shrines, park and geisha district
Nazuna Kyoto Nijo-jo- Best luxury ryokan kyoto with private onsen
Rokan| Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
Offering rooms with a private open-air bath, Nazuna Kyoto Nijo-jo – is located a 6-minute walk from Nijojomae Station and a 10-minute walk from Marutamachi Station. The property features free WiFi throughout the property and an on-site restaurant
Price mid-range
Highlights:
- Huge apartment-size suites
- Indoor and outdoor onsen with views
- Cutting-edge and traditional design options
- Superb cuisine
Ryokan Genhouin – Traditional Japanese hotel kyoto Ryokan hotel kyoto
Ryokan Genhouin
Rokan| Kyoto, Northern Higashiyama
9/10 rating
In the peaceful residential Sakyo-ku area below Higashiyama’s famed Philosopher’s Path lies the understated luxury sanctuary of Ryokan Genhouin. The original 100-year-old villa was transformed into a Relais & Châteaux property with just 11 rooms, exuding refined sophistication at every turn.
Price mid-range
Its stroll garden and traditional architecture could be those of an elegant temple. Multi-course seasonal kaiseki dinners made with the freshest local ingredients are served in your room alongside top-notch hospitality.
Highlights:
- Tranquil, exclusive property
- Huge rooms by Japanese standards
- Lovely gardens and architecture
- Short walk to Philosopher’s Path and temples
Hoshinoya Kyoto – modern ryokan kyoto / 5 star luxury kyoto ryokan
Rokan| Kyoto, Arashiyama
9/10 rating
Imagine being whisked away in a private boat upriver to an ultra-modern ryokan surrounded by nature – that’s the Hoshinoya Kyoto experience. The stunning Arashiyama location overlooks the river and forested hillsides.
Price luxury
Each room has a riverside balcony and sleek, minimalist design integrating the latest technology. The low-rise architecture lets the pristine landscape take center stage. Guests can easily access Arashiyama’s famous bamboo forest, shrines, and temples, then retreat back to this hidden retreat.
Highlights:
- Only accessible by romantic boat ride
- Peaceful riverside setting with views
- Cutting-edge, sleek Japanese design
- Quick river taxi to bamboo forest etc.
Yoshida Sanso – kyoto best ryokan
Rokan| Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
On the slopes of Mount Yoshida lies this gorgeous ryokan with an idyllic hilltop setting. Surrounded by temples and shrines that are perfect for peaceful morning walks, Yoshida Sanso pampers guests in refined relaxation.
Price mid-range
All rooms look over sublime gardens and feature elegant traditional décor with wooden soaking tubs. In addition to impeccable service, the cuisine here incorporating rare local ingredients stands out. It’s a destination unto itself up in northern Kyoto’s most temple-dotted neighborhood.
Highlights:
- Stunning location near gorgeous temples
- Lovely front garden, warm service
- Refined traditional rooms with garden views
- Excellent cuisine
Nazuna Kyoto Gosho – Best ryokan in kyoto japan
Rokan| Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
Conveniently located between Kyoto Imperial Park and the Kamigamo Shrine in Kamigyo-ku, this sleek boutique property balances modernity with tradition. The luxe suites with king-size beds somehow feel both stylish and homey.
Price mid-range
Guests particularly rave about the wagyu beef cuisine made from local Kyoto cows. Beyond the tranquil on-site gardens, the friendly English-speaking staff provides custom insider tips for nearby sightseeing like Heian Shrine and Sanjusangen-do Temple.
Highlights:
- Modern suites with very comfortable beds
- Excellent wagyu beef cuisine
- Short walk to Imperial Palace Park and shrine
- Helpful staff with custom sightseeing advice
Kikusui – luxury Kyoto ryokan
Rokan| Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
In-room soaking tubs made of aromatic Japanese cypress offer relaxing views of private gardens and water features. The incredibly fresh, colorful multi-course dinners are culinary works of art. It’s super convenient to the Tozai subway line while allowing easy access to Higashiyama’s attractions.
Price mid-range
In-room soaking tubs made of aromatic Japanese cypress offer relaxing views of private gardens and water features. The incredibly fresh, colorful multi-course dinners are culinary works of art. It’s super convenient to the Tozai subway line while allowing easy access to Higashiyama’s attractions.
Highlights:
- Quiet location near famous Nanzen-ji Temple
- Very comfortable rooms and great food
- Convenient to subway and sites
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I’ve now highlighted the best ryokans in Kyoto by location and style, from ultra-luxe retreats to convenient sightseeing bases to hidden village gems. With this list, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable, authentically Japanese ryokan stay to anchor your Kyoto trip. Check exact rates and availability during your travel dates to lock in the best option. I hope you find the ideal match so you can experience Japan’s famous omotenashi (hospitality) and create wonderful memories to cherish for years.
