In my experience, this charming Japanese inn offers a genuine slice of old Kyoto. Nestled in the heart of the city, it’s a stone’s throw from major sights like the Heian Shrine and Imperial Palace.
The rooms, with their tatami mats and futon beds, transport you back in time while still providing modern comforts like Wi-Fi. The public bath is a great way to soak away the day’s adventures.
However, keep in mind that traditional accommodations mean sleeping on the floor, which might not suit everyone’s back. Also, the shared lounges, while cozy, may feel less private for some travelers.
This ryokan is perfect for culture enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic Japanese experience. If you’re looking to learn about local customs and don’t mind trading some Western-style amenities for a more traditional stay, you’ll feel right at home here.
It’s especially well-suited for couples or small groups wanting to dive deep into Kyoto’s rich heritage.
This ryokan was selected for the 26 best ryokans in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto.
Good To Know
- Authentic Japanese-style ryokan established in the 1920s, offering a traditional and immersive experience in central Kyoto.
- Conveniently located, with a 10-minute walk to Heian Jingu Shrine and 15-minute walk to Kyoto Imperial Palace.
- Offers a variety of room types, including superior quadruple, superior twin with garden view, standard twin, and economy twin.
- Amenities include free Wi-Fi, public bath, laundry facilities, and shared lounges, providing guests with a comfortable stay.
- Consistently high-rated by over 400 reviews for its spacious rooms, friendly staff, cleanliness, and authentic Japanese ambiance.
Overview
The Ryokan Sawaya Honten is an authentic Japanese-style inn dating back to the 1920s, located in the heart of Kyoto.
It’s situated just a 10-minute walk from the Heian Jingu Shrine and a 15-minute walk from the Kyoto Imperial Palace.
The inn is also conveniently located just a 5-minute drive from the Shinkyogoku shopping area and a 5-minute walk from the Jingu-Marutamachi Train Station.
With its rich history and prime location, the Ryokan Sawaya Honten provides guests with a truly immersive and traditional Japanese experience during their stay in Kyoto.
Location
Located in the heart of Kyoto, the Ryokan Sawaya Honten sits just a 10-minute walk from the renowned Heian Jingu Shrine and a 15-minute walk from the iconic Kyoto Imperial Palace.
The inn is also conveniently located a 5-minute drive from the Shinkyogoku shopping area and a 5-minute walk from the Jingu-Marutamachi Train Station.
Established in the 1920s, this authentic Japanese-style inn offers guests a traditional experience in the cultural heart of Japan.
With its proximity to top attractions and easy access to transportation, the Ryokan Sawaya Honten provides an ideal base for exploring the historic city of Kyoto.
Accommodations
Ryokan Sawaya Honten offers an array of accommodation options to suit guests’ preferences.
The rooms feature traditional Japanese decor, including tatami-mat flooring, paper sliding doors, and futon bedding. Amenities like TVs, fridges, and private bathrooms ensure comfort.
Guests can choose from room types like Superior Quadruple, Superior Twin with Garden View, Standard Twin, and Economy Twin.
The inn provides free Wi-Fi, a public bath, laundry facilities, and shared lounges.
Safety measures like face masks in common areas and enhanced cleaning are in place.
With its central location and authentic ryokan experience, Ryokan Sawaya Honten caters to visitors seeking a traditional Japanese stay.
Amenities
Along With its comfortable accommodations, Ryokan Sawaya Honten provides guests with a range of modern amenities to enhance their stay.
Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the property, as well as access to a public bath, laundry facilities, and a shared lounge with a TV.
The inn also offers heating and air conditioning to ensure a comfortable environment. For security, there are safety deposit boxes available.
Ryokan Sawaya Honten caters to both smoking and non-smoking preferences, with designated non-smoking rooms.
Guest Experience
With a superb rating of 9.3 based on over 400 reviews, Ryokan Sawaya Honten consistently delights guests with its exceptional service and traditional Japanese experience.
Visitors praise the spacious, comfortable rooms with lovely garden views, as well as the friendly and helpful staff who excel at English communication.
The inn’s clean facilities and authentic, peaceful atmosphere also earn high marks.
Guests particularly enjoy the relaxing public bath and the quality of the included breakfast.
Reviews
Guests consistently rave about their stays at Ryokan Sawaya Honten, praising its superb 9.3 rating out of over 400 reviews.
Travelers highlight the spacious, comfortable rooms with lovely garden views, as well as the friendly and helpful staff who excel at English communication.
Reviewers also commend the ryokan’s clean facilities and authentic traditional experience, including the enjoyable public bath and high-quality breakfast.
Policies
Ryokan Sawaya Honten has a specific set of policies guests should be aware of.
The inn enforces a check-in time from 16:00 to 21:00 and a check-out time from 06:00 to 10:00. Guests must be at least 18 years old, and children under 13 aren’t accommodated. Pets aren’t allowed.
Quiet hours are observed from 21:00 to 07:00.
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type, and stays are pre-paid only.
Plus, the inn implements enhanced safety and sanitation measures, and face masks are mandatory in indoor common areas due to COVID-19 precautions.
- Check-in/Check-out times
- Age restrictions
- Pet policy
- Quiet hours
- Cancellation/prepayment policies
Health and Safety
The inn has implemented enhanced COVID-19 safety and sanitation measures to protect guests’ well-being.
Visitors must wear face masks in all indoor common areas.
Plus, the inn follows all legal requirements, including the accommodation tax per person per night.
Ryokan Sawaya Honten is professionally managed, ensuring guests’ safety and a reliable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Breakfast Included in the Room Rate?
Breakfast is not automatically included in the room rate. Guests should check the accommodation details or contact the property directly to inquire about breakfast options and any additional charges for this service.
Does the Ryokan Offer Any Traditional Cultural Experiences?
The ryokan offers traditional cultural experiences like communal bathing in the public onsen. Guests can also enjoy tatami-mat rooms and savor local Japanese cuisine for a genuine immersion in Japanese hospitality and customs.
Are There Any Special Packages or Promotions Available?
The ryokan doesn’t appear to offer any special packages or promotions based on the provided information. However, guests can likely inquire about any available offers or experiences when making their reservation.
Can the Ryokan Arrange Transportation to Nearby Attractions?
The ryokan doesn’t offer transportation packages, but they can provide guidance and recommendations for getting to nearby attractions. Guests can take advantage of the convenient location and walk or use public transport to explore the area.
What Are the Popular Season/Times for Visiting the Ryokan?
The ryokan is popular year-round, but peak seasons are spring for cherry blossoms and fall for autumn foliage. Bookings fill up quickly during these times, so travelers should plan and reserve well in advance.
The Sum Up
Ryokan Sawaya Honten provides an authentic and immersive Japanese hospitality experience. The inn’s traditional architecture, amenities, and convenient location make it an ideal choice for those seeking to enjoy Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage. With its serene atmosphere and exceptional service, Ryokan Sawaya Honten offers guests a truly memorable stay in the heart of this historic city.