Let me tell you about this gem in Kyoto’s Higashiyama Ward. We found this 4-star hotel to be a real winner, just a stone’s throw from Gion Shijo Station. The rooms are roomy and spotless, and the staff really knows how to make you feel at home.
It’s perfectly placed for exploring nearby attractions like the Samurai Kembu Kyoto and the breathtaking Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
Now, a couple of things to keep in mind: They only take cash, which might be a bit of a hassle if you’re used to plastic. Also, there’s an extra accommodation tax to budget for. But don’t let that scare you off!
This place is ideal for travelers who want to soak up the Kyoto experience without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a comfy base to explore the city’s rich culture and history, you’ve hit the jackpot.
It’s especially great for couples or small groups who appreciate a good location and top-notch service. Just remember to hit the ATM before you check in!
This hotel earned its place in our 26 favorite hotels in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto.
Good To Know
- The Rinn Gion Shirakawa is a 4-star hotel located in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, with an excellent location score of 9.3/10 based on 1,319 reviews.
- The hotel is situated just a 3-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station, providing convenient access to nearby attractions like Samurai Kembu Kyoto and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
- Guests rate the hotel’s spacious and clean rooms, as well as its high levels of comfort and staff helpfulness, with overall ratings of 9.5/10 and 9.3/10, respectively.
- The hotel offers non-smoking rooms, complimentary WiFi, and various in-room amenities, catering to the needs of solo travelers, couples, and groups.
- The hotel accepts cash payments only, and guests are required to pay a mandatory accommodation tax per person, per night, which is not included in the room rate.
Hotel Overview and Location
Rinn Gion Shirakawa is a 4-star hotel nestled in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan.
It boasts an excellent location score of 9.3/10 based on 1,319 reviews. The hotel’s prime spot is within a 3-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station and close to popular attractions like Samurai Kembu Kyoto (700 yards) and Kiyomizu-dera Temple (1.5 miles).
Guests praise the area’s accessibility to public transportation, restaurants, parks, and temples, making it an ideal base for exploring Kyoto’s cultural offerings.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
The hotel has received a rating of 9.1/10, categorized as "wonderful."
Guests praised the welcoming staff (9.3), spacious and clean rooms (9.5), comfort (9.5), and overall value for money (9.1).
Common positive remarks include:
- The helpfulness of the staff
- The spaciousness of the rooms
- The cleanliness of the facilities
- The hotel’s accessibility to public transportation, restaurants, parks, and temples
- Couples particularly appreciate the location for romantic trips, rating it 9.3.
Amenities and Facilities
Rinn Gion Shirakawa offers a variety of amenities, including non-smoking rooms and complimentary WiFi.
Guests can enjoy in-room heating, tea/coffee making facilities, and concierge services. The hotel also provides luggage storage and air-conditioned rooms equipped with a desk, coffee machine, fridge, safety deposit box, flat-screen TV, and private bathroom with a bidet.
An outdoor sitting area and a vending machine for drinks add to the convenience.
Whether travelers are seeking comfort or accessibility, Rinn Gion Shirakawa caters to their needs with its well-appointed facilities and thoughtful touches.
Room Types and Features
Offering a range of accommodation options, the hotel provides several room types to suit different guest needs. These include:
- Twin Room
- Standard Twin Room
- Large Twin Room
- Superior Twin Room
- Deluxe Twin Room
- Deluxe Suite
All rooms feature essential amenities such as linens, towels, and electric kettles.
Some rooms even boast balconies or river views, adding to the overall experience.
Whether traveling solo, with a partner, or in a group, Rinn Gion Shirakawa caters to a variety of preferences and budgets through its diverse room selection.
Check-in and Check-out
Check-in at Rinn Gion Shirakawa takes place from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and guests must check out by 10:00 AM. This ensures efficient room turnover and provides ample time for the hotel staff to prepare the rooms for incoming guests. The hotel’s policies are designed to offer a seamless and hassle-free experience for all visitors.
| Check-in Time | Check-out Time | Late Check-out Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Until 10:00 AM | Not available |
Children of all ages are welcome at the hotel, though cribs and extra beds are not provided. Pets are not permitted on the premises. Guests will be required to pay an accommodation tax per person, per night, which is not included in the room rate.
Children and Pets
At Rinn Gion Shirakawa, children of all ages are welcome, though the hotel doesn’t provide cribs or extra beds.
Guests traveling with children can enjoy the hotel’s convenient location and amenities, but should plan accordingly for their little ones.
The hotel has the following policies regarding children and pets:
- Children of all ages are welcome
- Cribs and extra beds aren’t available
- Pets aren’t permitted on the premises
Families should keep these considerations in mind when booking their stay at Rinn Gion Shirakawa to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
Payment Methods
The hotel accepts cash as a payment method. Guests can pay for their stay at Rinn Gion Shirakawa using cash.
The hotel doesn’t accept other payment methods like credit cards or online payments. An accommodation tax per person, per night isn’t included in the room rate and must be paid at the property in cash upon check-out. This tax helps support local tourism initiatives.
Guests should ensure they’ve the necessary cash on hand to cover the total cost of their stay, including the additional tax. By only accepting cash, the hotel maintains a straightforward and reliable payment process for visitors.
Accommodation Tax
Guests at Rinn Gion Shirakawa can expect to pay an accommodation tax per person, per night, which isn’t included in the room rate. This tax is a mandatory charge levied by the local government and must be paid directly to the hotel. The amount of the tax varies depending on the location and can range from a few hundred yen to over a thousand yen per person. Guests should be prepared to pay this additional fee upon check-out.
The accommodation tax helps fund local infrastructure and public services.
It’s a common practice in many Japanese hotels and ryokans.
The tax is charged per person, not per room, so couples and families will pay more.
Rates are set by the local government and may change over time.
Guests can’t avoid paying the accommodation tax, as it’s a legal requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Hotel’s Historical Background and Architectural Style?
The hotel’s historical background and architectural style are not provided in the given information. The details focus on the hotel’s location, amenities, room types, and guest reviews, without mentioning its historical or architectural features.
What Are the Dining Options and Restaurants Near the Hotel?
The hotel is surrounded by a variety of dining options, including local restaurants, cafes, and traditional Japanese eateries. Guests can easily find a range of cuisines within a short walking distance from the hotel.
Are There Any Nearby Cultural Events or Festivals in the Area?
The Higashiyama district, where the hotel is located, hosts several renowned cultural festivals throughout the year, including the Gion Matsuri in July and the Daimonji Gozan Okuribi in August, offering guests immersive traditional experiences.
What Are the Hotel’s Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices?
The hotel doesn’t publicly disclose its sustainability and eco-friendly practices. However, many modern hotels prioritize energy efficiency, waste reduction, and responsible resource use to minimize their environmental impact and appeal to eco-conscious travelers.
Can the Hotel Arrange Transportation or Provide Recommendations for Day Trips?
The hotel can arrange transportation and provide recommendations for day trips. They have knowledgeable staff who can assist guests in planning activities and excursions to nearby attractions and destinations.
The Sum Up
Rinn Gion Shirakawa’s prime location, exceptional service, and thoughtful amenities make it a premier choice for both leisure and business travelers. With its spacious rooms, range of facilities, and commitment to guest satisfaction, this 4-star hotel offers an unparalleled experience in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama Ward. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or a base for exploring the city, Rinn Gion Shirakawa is poised to exceed your expectations and create lasting memories.