In our experience, this cozy gem in Kyoto’s Kamigyo-ku neighborhood offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences.
You’ll feel right at home with the warm hospitality and clean, roomy accommodations. The nearby sights, like the impressive Kitano Tenmangu Shrine and the glittering Kinkaku-ji Temple, are easily reachable on foot.
While the tasty meals and helpful staff earn high marks, keep in mind that some rooms have shared facilities, which might not suit everyone’s taste.
Also, the 29-mile distance to Itami Airport could be a hitch for those with early flights.
This spot is ideal for culture buffs and history lovers who want to soak up Kyoto’s rich heritage.
If you’re after a quiet, authentic Japanese stay without breaking the bank, you’ll find great value here.
It’s particularly well-suited for independent travelers who don’t mind a bit of walking to explore the city’s treasures.
This ryokan was selected for the top 26 ryokans in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto.
Good To Know
- Kyo Obataya is a traditional Japanese-style accommodation located in Kamigyo-ku, central Kyoto, offering an immersive cultural experience for guests.
- The property features modern amenities, such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a shared kitchen, blending traditional Japanese hospitality with contemporary comforts.
- Guests can enjoy a 19-minute walk to the Kitano Tenmangu Shrine and easy access to popular attractions like Kinkaku-ji Temple and the Imperial Palace.
- The exceptional hospitality of the host, Yoko, and the spacious, spotless rooms with high guest ratings contribute to a memorable stay.
- The property’s policies include check-in between 3:00 PM and 9:00 PM, check-out by 10:00 AM, and quiet hours observed from 8:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Property Overview
The Kyo Obataya (Ryokan) is situated in Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan, with an excellent location rated 9.2/10 by recent guests.
It’s a 19-minute walk from Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, 1.1 miles from the city center, and 11 minutes on foot from Nijo Castle.
Popular attractions like Kinkaku-ji Temple and the Imperial Palace are just 1.9 and 2 miles away, respectively.
The property is 29 miles from Itami Airport.
Guests have praised its proximity to key sights, awarding it an overall rating of 9.7/10.
Location and Surroundings
Situated in the heart of Kyoto’s Kamigyo-ku neighborhood, Kyo Obataya (Ryokan) boasts an excellent location that’s highly rated by recent guests.
Just a 19-minute walk from the renowned Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, the property is 1.1 miles from the city center and an 11-minute walk from the iconic Nijo Castle.
Plus, it’s conveniently close to popular attractions like Kinkaku-ji Temple (1.9 miles) and the Imperial Palace (2 miles).
The ryokan is situated 29 miles from Itami Airport, making it easily accessible for travelers.
With its prime location and proximity to Kyoto’s top sights, Kyo Obataya offers guests a truly immersive and convenient Japanese experience.
Room Types and Amenities
Equipped with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi, Kyo Obataya’s accommodations cater to guests’ modern needs while preserving a traditional Japanese ambiance.
Guests can choose between Standard Twin Rooms with two twin beds or Japanese-Style Rooms with two futon beds.
The property offers a range of amenities, including:
- Microwave, toaster, fridge, and kettle for in-room convenience
- Garden and laundry facilities for a comfortable stay
- Bicycle rental for exploring the local area
- Shared kitchen for preparing meals
- Facilities for disabled guests
The ryokan’s thoughtful offerings create a welcoming environment that blends modern comforts with authentic Japanese hospitality.
Hospitality and Guest Experiences
Guests consistently praise Kyo Obataya’s exceptional hospitality and traditional Japanese experience.
The host, Yoko, is renowned for her personalized service and culture activities, including a revered matcha tea ceremony.
Reviewers highlight the spacious, spotless accommodations and delightful breakfasts.
The staff earn a perfect 10/10 rating, while the facilities, cleanliness, comfort, and value for money all score over 9.7/10.
Visitors appreciate the ryokan’s emphasis on preserving Japanese heritage, creating a truly authentic experience.
Whether exploring nearby sights or simply relaxing in the serene garden, guests are left with cherished memories of Kyo Obataya’s warm hospitality.
Check-in and Check-out
Kyo Obataya operates on a straightforward check-in and check-out policy. Guests can arrive between 3:00 PM and 9:00 PM, and must depart by 10:00 AM on the day of check-out.
To ensure a smooth experience, the property requests that guests inform them of their expected arrival time in advance.
Plus, the following policies are in place:
- Children over 10 are welcome, but no cribs or extra beds are available.
- Pets aren’t allowed, and smoking as well as parties are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are observed from 8:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
- An accommodation tax per person per night is payable at the property.
Policies and Restrictions
The property maintains a few important policies and restrictions for guests.
Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and checkout is by 10:00 AM.
Children over 10 are welcome, but cribs and extra beds aren’t available.
Pets aren’t allowed, and smoking and parties are prohibited.
Quiet hours are observed from 8:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
An accommodation tax per person per night is payable at the property.
Guests must inform the property of their expected arrival time in advance.
Additional services like shared lounge/TV area, ironing, and public transit tickets are available for an additional charge.
Additional Services and Fees
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
Additional services and fees at Kyo Obataya include:
- Shared lounge/TV area for guest use
- Ironing service available for an additional charge
- Public transit tickets can be purchased on-site for convenience
- Accommodation tax of per person per night is payable directly at the property
- Guests must inform the property of their expected arrival time in advance to ensure a smooth check-in process.
These amenities and policies aim to provide a comfortable and hassle-free stay at the Kyo Obataya ryokan.
Arrival Information
Guests will need to check in at Kyo Obataya between 3:00 PM and 9:00 PM.
The check-out time is 10:00 AM.
Children over 10 are welcome, but there are no cribs or extra beds available.
Pets aren’t allowed, and smoking and parties are prohibited.
Quiet hours are observed from 8:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Guests must inform the property of their expected arrival time in advance.
An accommodation tax per person per night is payable at the property.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Payment Methods Accepted at the Property?
The property doesn’t specify the payment methods accepted. Guests should contact the property directly to inquire about the accepted payment options prior to their stay.
Is There a Dedicated Concierge Service Available?
The property does not seem to offer a dedicated concierge service. However, the staff is highly praised for their exceptional hospitality and ability to assist guests with various requests during their stay.
Can the Property Accommodate Special Dietary Requests?
The property can accommodate special dietary requests with advance notice. Guests should inform the host of any dietary restrictions or preferences when booking to ensure their needs are met during their stay.
Does the Property Offer Any On-Site Dining Options?
The property does not mention any on-site dining options. However, it provides a shared kitchen where guests can prepare their own meals. Breakfast is highly praised by previous guests, though the details of what’s offered are not specified.
What Are the Designated Smoking Areas, if Any?
The property is strictly non-smoking. There are no designated smoking areas on site. Smoking is prohibited throughout the property, including guest rooms and common areas.
The Sum Up
Kyo Obataya offers an authentic ryokan experience in the heart of historic Kyoto. Guests can enjoy Japanese culture through the property’s exceptional hospitality, well-appointed accommodations, and proximity to iconic landmarks. Whether seeking a standard room or a serene suite, this highly-rated traditional inn promises a memorable stay filled with cultural enrichment. It’s the perfect base for travelers looking to fully experience Kyoto’s timeless charm.