Stepping into this cozy ryokan feels like traveling back in time. We loved the traditional tatami rooms and the soothing public bath. The Japanese breakfast was a real treat, and the helpful staff made us feel right at home.
Best of all, you’re just a short stroll from Kanazawa’s must-see sights like Kenroku-en Garden and the bustling Omicho Market.
Keep in mind, though, that the rooms can be quite snug by Western standards, and the futon beds on the floor might not suit everyone’s comfort level. Also, while the staff speaks good English, some guests might find the overall experience a bit too authentically Japanese.
This place is perfect for travelers eager to enjoy Japanese culture and don’t mind trading some modern amenities for a genuine local experience.
If you’re looking for a unique, centrally-located base to explore Kanazawa and don’t mind sleeping on the floor, this ryokan could be your ideal home away from home.
We included this ryokan in our 26 favorite ryokans in Kanazawa.
Good To Know
- Murataya is a traditional ryokan located in Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan, within walking distance of top attractions like Kenroku-en Garden and Omicho Market.
- The ryokan offers a variety of room types, including Japanese-style twin, single, superior, and quadruple with garden view, all featuring tatami flooring and futon bedding.
- Guests can enjoy an authentic ryokan experience with on-site amenities like a public bath, shared dining area, and Japanese breakfast service for an additional fee.
- Murataya is highly rated for its exceptional service, with staff receiving praise for their kindness, accommodation abilities, and English proficiency.
- The ryokan has flexible booking and check-in/check-out policies, and adheres to COVID-19 safety measures to ensure guest protection.
Overview and Location
Murataya is a traditional ryokan located in Katamachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan.
It’s just 1.2 miles from the JR Kanazawa Train Station, offering a 10-minute walk to Kenroku-en Garden and a 15-minute walk to Omicho Market.
Guests can also reach the Nagamachi Buke-Yashiki (Old Samurai District) and Kanazawa 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art within a 5-minute walk.
Based on 490 reviews, Murataya’s location scores an impressive 9.5/10 rating, making it an ideal base for exploring Kanazawa’s top attractions.
Room Types and Accommodations
The ryokan offers a variety of room types to accommodate different guest needs. Guests can choose from Japanese-Style Twin Rooms, Single Rooms, Superior Rooms, and Quadruple Rooms with Garden View. Each accommodation features traditional tatami flooring and futon bedding, providing an authentic ryokan experience.
| Room Type | Capacity | View |
|---|---|---|
| Japanese-Style Twin | 2 | – |
| Single | 1 | – |
| Superior | 2-3 | – |
| Quadruple with Garden View | 4 | Garden |
Along With the rooms, Murataya offers shared facilities, including a public bath that can be locked for private use, and a common dining area for breakfast, available at an additional fee.
Onsite Facilities and Amenities
Guests can take advantage of the various onsite facilities and amenities offered at Murataya. The ryokan features a public bath, which can be reserved for private use, allowing guests to enjoy a traditional onsen-style soak.
Plus, the property provides:
- A shared toilet and bathroom for guest convenience.
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the premises, enabling guests to stay connected.
- A coin-operated laundry facility, perfect for longer stays.
The ryokan also boasts a picturesque garden and a dining area where guests can savor a delightful Japanese breakfast for an additional fee.
Dining and Breakfast Options
Along With the onsite facilities, Murataya offers a dining area where guests can savor a delightful Japanese breakfast for an additional fee.
The traditional breakfast spread typically includes a selection of seasonal dishes, such as miso soup, steamed rice, grilled fish, and a variety of small side dishes.
Guests can enjoy this authentic dining experience in the serene and cozy atmosphere of the ryokan.
The breakfast is highly praised by previous visitors, who appreciated the high-quality ingredients and the opportunity to enjoy Japanese culinary traditions.
For those seeking a true ryokan experience, Murataya’s breakfast is an essential part of the stay.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
Murataya’s guest reviews and ratings reflect the hotel’s exceptional quality and service. With an overall rating of 9.1/10 from 490 reviews, guests consistently praise the ryokan’s traditional accommodations, cleanliness, and unbeatable value.
Standout features include:
Stellar staff, with a 9.7/10 rating for their kindness, accommodating service, and excellent English skills.
High marks for the facilities, with a 9.0/10 score highlighting the authentic ryokan experience and immaculate upkeep.
Exceptional comfort, earning a 9.3/10 rating as guests relish the traditional tatami and futon setup.
Taken together, Murataya’s glowing reviews showcase its ability to deliver an unforgettable Japanese hospitality experience.
Staff Professionalism and Service
The Murataya ryokan’s staff receive glowing praise from guests, earning an exceptional 9.7/10 rating for their exemplary service.
Guests highlight the staff’s kindness, accommodation, and excellent English skills, which make navigating the traditional ryokan experience seamless.
The team goes above and beyond to recommend local dining options and ensure a comfortable stay.
Visitors appreciate the staff’s deep knowledge of the area and willingness to assist with any requests, contributing to the overall positive impression of the Murataya.
The staff’s professionalism and attentive service are consistently cited as a standout aspect of the ryokan, elevating the traditional Japanese hospitality experience.
Booking and Check-in/Check-out
Guests can book their stay at Murataya through the ryokan’s website or various online booking platforms.
Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and guests must check out by 10:00 AM.
The ryokan offers the following for guests:
- Flexible cancellation and prepayment policies that vary by accommodation type.
- Welcoming children of all ages, with cribs available for an additional fee.
- A quiet time from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM, where smoking and parties aren’t permitted.
House Rules and Policies
Check-in and checkout times, along with the accommodation tax, are essential details for guests to be aware of when staying at Murataya.
The ryokan has a check-in time from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM and a checkout time before 10:00 AM.
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type.
Children aged 2 and above are charged as adults, and cribs are available upon request for an additional fee.
Pets aren’t allowed, and smoking and parties are prohibited.
Quiet hours are observed from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM.
Plus, COVID-19 safety measures are in place at the accommodation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Get Meals Delivered to My Room?
No, meals are not delivered to guest rooms. Murataya offers a breakfast dining area, but guests must take their meals there. The ryokan focuses on providing an authentic Japanese inn experience rather than room service.
Is There an Airport Shuttle Service Available?
Unfortunately, the information provided does not indicate if Murataya offers an airport shuttle service. The ryokan’s amenities appear focused on the traditional Japanese accommodations and local attractions rather than transportation options.
Do You Have Rooms With Private Outdoor Spaces?
No, Murataya does not offer rooms with private outdoor spaces. The traditional ryokan features shared common areas like a garden, but the guest rooms are designed in the classic Japanese style without individual outdoor access.
Can I Store My Luggage After Check-Out?
Yes, the ryokan offers luggage storage after check-out. Guests can securely keep their belongings onsite until their departure, allowing them to continue exploring the local area without carrying their luggage.
Is There a Concierge Service to Assist With Planning Activities?
While the Ryokan doesn’t have a dedicated concierge, the helpful staff can assist guests with activity planning and recommendations. They’re happy to provide guidance on local attractions, dining, and transportation to ensure an enjoyable stay.
The Sum Up
Murataya offers travelers an authentic ryokan experience in the heart of historic Kanazawa. Guests enjoy comfortable, well-appointed rooms, access to an on-site public bath, and exceptional service from the friendly staff. With its prime location near top attractions, Murataya provides an unparalleled opportunity to discover the unique charms of this coastal city and take in the rich cultural heritage of the region.