Around Kenin Temple × Recommended Hotel·Ryokan

"Sowaka" is a Sanskrit word from India meaning "happiness be with you." Often used at the end of Buddhist scriptures, this blessing resonates as both nostalgic and fresh, blending seamlessly into Kyoto, a city rich with Buddhist temples. Passing through the entrance and walking along the water-sprinkled stone path, you will find yourself in a serene, otherworldly space. Refresh your eyes with the greenery of the courtyard garden, feel the gentle breeze, and relax in your Room. While the prime location is certainly a highlight, the greatest charm of this Hotel lies in its luxurious space where the old and the new harmoniously coexist. At the restaurant, savor creative Kyoto-inspired cuisine. Stroll through the city with ease, as if you were a local. May happiness and blessings be with all who visit. Enjoy countless moments of joy to your heart's content at "Sowaka."

Imperial Hotel Kyoto is located in the heart of Gion, Kyoto, and carries on the history and legacy of Yasaka Kaikan, a nationally registered Tangible Cultural Property. While preserving the building’s dignified design, our guest rooms pursue modern comfort to offer an extraordinary sense of relaxation. Within the Hotel, enjoy refined dining experiences that Imperial Hotel is proud of—French cuisine inspired by the changing seasons, a lively all-day dining venue, and an elegant classic main bar. In a welcoming space where history and modernity are in harmony, enjoy a truly special stay in Kyoto.

The Higashiyama area, a short distance from the Hotel, offers breathtaking scenery harmonized with architecture and landscapes. Notably, "Kiyomizu Temple" and "Kodaiji Temple" are highly recommended. You can also walk from the Hotel to Kyoto's famous attractions such as Yasaka Shrine and Chion-in Temple.

A Japanese auberge serving cuisine that lets you savor Kyoto’s four seasons with all five senses. Step inside to a dignified stillness where the sound of a waterfall echoes, making the bustle of Gion feel far away. There are 8 Rooms in total, each with a calm atmosphere and a gentle yuzu fragrance in the air. Antique chests, understated wildflowers, and seasonal touches—decor is kept minimal, creating an inviting space focused purely on comfort. On the first floor, we offer a hinoki bath with yuzu: yellow yuzu in winter and green yuzu in summer. Soothe your travel fatigue as you soak in a bath filled with plenty of fresh yuzu.

"KYOTO GION HOTEL" serves as the perfect base for exploring Kyoto. Located in the heart of Kyoto's traditional entertainment district, our Hotel offers an excellent location and ensures a delightful travel experience.

Surrounded by the nature of Higashiyama, the Gion area is one of Kyoto's most popular tourist destinations. Within walking distance to the World Heritage site Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Hanamikoji Street, where you can see Maiko passing by. Just a 10-minute shuttle bus ride from Kyoto Station, with free daily service, you can fully enjoy your trip to Kyoto, whether for sightseeing or business. The Hotel also features a large public bath to soothe your travel fatigue. Relax in a serene Japanese-modern space. The women's bath is equipped with a powder room. For dining, we offer Kyoto-style tempura by "Yasaka Endo," a long-loved establishment in Gion, as well as original Hotel menu options.

Hotel Sasarindou is located in the heart of Kyoto's Gion district, near the base of Shijo Bridge, making it an ideal location for both sightseeing and business. The hotel's exterior blends seamlessly with the seasonal charm of Gion's streetscape, offering a modest yet comfortable sense of relaxation through its services.All rooms in the hotel are Western-style and equipped with essential amenities such as air conditioning, a bathroom, an LCD satellite TV, an electric kettle, and a refrigerator. Each room features unique interior designs, allowing guests to discover something new with every stay. Additionally, complimentary breakfast service is provided to start your day elegantly.For sightseeing purposes, many iconic attractions in Kyoto's Higashiyama and Gion areas are within walking distance from the hotel. With just a 3-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station, guests can fully enjoy Kyoto's stunning scenery and rich culture.Hotel Sasarindou caters to all types of stays—whether you're traveling as a couple, with friends or family, or even solo. Our dedicated staff warmly welcomes you and strives to provide every guest with an unforgettable experience.

Additionally, the location is within walking distance to popular attractions such as Kiyomizu Temple, Kodaiji Temple, Yasaka Shrine, Chion-in Temple, Kyoto Kawaramachi, Kiyamachi, and Pontocho. It serves as an ideal base for exploring Kyoto. Relax in the spacious Rooms, each over 30 square meters.

This Hotel’s key advantages are its convenient location with excellent transport access, the Kamo River views from the windows, and spacious Rooms. Ideally located for getting around: about 15 minutes by taxi from JR Kyoto Station (Karasuma Exit). It is a 6-minute walk from Hankyu Kawaramachi Station, a 10-minute walk from Keihan Gion-Shijo Station, and a 6-minute walk from the city bus stop “Shijo Kawaramachi.” Another highlight of this prime location is that you can also reach us on foot from the stations while enjoying Kyoto’s scenery and strolling along the way. The property stands along the Kamo River, and our Kamo River View Rooms (riverside) feature floor-to-ceiling glass windows so you can fully enjoy the beautiful river view. Of our five Rooms in total, four are riverside Rooms with Kamo River views. In spring, you can see cherry blossoms in full bloom along the river; in autumn, vibrant fall foliage; and in winter, snow-dusted views of the Higashiyama mountains and Mount Hiei. From higher-floor Rooms, you can also watch Daimonji Bonfire (Gozan Okuribi). In addition—rare for buildings along the Kamo River—there is a rooftop terrace available for guests. The view across the river from the rooftop evokes Kaii Higashiyama’s painting “Toshi Kururu,” and you can also look out over Daimonji Bonfire (Gozan Okuribi) from here.

<Opening July 1, 2026>A small luxury retreat born in Kyoto’s Gion: “Gion Gensho”10 minutes on foot from Gion-Shijo Station. From the historic geisha district to Kyoto’s major sightseeing spots.Honoring the spirit of hospitality cultivated by Japan’s traditional Accommodation—thoughtful settings, graceful manners, and an appreciation of the seasons—while blending in modern sensibility and refinement, we offer a one-of-a-kind stay experience.In our name, “Gen” signifies the origin of all things, and “Matsu” symbolizes prosperity. Grounded in Gion’s atmosphere and deep respect for tradition, we pursue a new vision for Accommodation in a new era.Cherishing the Ryokan principle of “Shu” (preservation), embracing “Ha” (innovation) without fear, and moving beyond to “Ri” (transcendence).Please enjoy memories of a stay found only here.

Hankyu Line "Kyoto Kawaramachi Station" is a 1-minute walk, and Keihan "Gion Shijo Station" is a 4-minute walk, offering an excellent location. Shijo Kawaramachi, Gion, Pontocho, Kiyamachi, and Takashimaya are all within walking distance. At the "Sky Terrace," enjoy a drink while soaking your feet in the Onsen foot bath and admiring the Higashiyama mountain range. Experience the standing infinity bath with all your senses at the open-air Onsen bath on the top floor. The Kyoto Kaiseki breakfast box "Treasure Box of the Ancient Capital" can be enjoyed in your Room or on the rooftop terrace.

Keihan: 5-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station. Subway: 6-minute walk from Keihan Sanjo Station, offering excellent access. 3-minute walk to Yasaka Shrine, and a 20-minute walk to Kiyomizu Temple or Heian Shrine, making it convenient for sightseeing. The entire building is non-smoking, with a designated smoking area outside. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, an empty refrigerator, room wear, disposable slippers, a hairdryer, a trouser press (including rentals), and complimentary bath amenities. Nearby are numerous Kyoto-style dining options and shops for shopping enjoyment. Additionally, the front desk provides information on kimono rentals, bicycle rentals, coin parking lots, public baths (sento), and more for your sightseeing needs.

A 5-minute walk from Kyoto's popular tourist destination, Gion. This is a fully private Property renovated from a traditional Kyoto townhouse (machiya) located in Miyagawa-cho, one of Kyoto's five geisha districts. Despite being within walking distance of Kyoto's busiest downtown area, Shijo Kawaramachi, the location is quiet and serene. The living room features a Japanese-style space with views of the courtyard garden. There is no partition between the living room and the adjacent dining area, creating an open and spacious environment. The bathroom includes a Goemon-style bathtub where you can enjoy views of the courtyard garden during your bath time. Equipped with a spacious kitchen and both Japanese and Western-style bedrooms, this Property offers an experience that feels like living in Kyoto amidst its unique atmosphere.

Kyoto's geisha district, Miyagawa-cho. "Miyagawa-cho Hotori" is located right next to the traditional streets along the Kamo River. You can enjoy a stay as if living in a Kyoto townhouse, surrounded by high-quality wood and harmonizing modern and traditional Kyoto designs.

A two-unit traditional townhouse located at the foot of "Yasaka Pagoda," a symbolic landmark of Higashiyama. The accommodations, situated to the west and east, are inspired by Kinkakuji and Ginkakuji Temples, featuring gold and silver accents in the interior design and decorations. The serene Japanese-style space is unified with light wood tones. Yasaka Shrine and Hanamikoji Street, popular tourist destinations, are approximately an 11-minute walk away. This is an ideal base for exploring Kyoto. When reserving both units together, up to 10 guests can stay, making it perfect for group trips. Experience an elegant stay at the foot of Yasaka Pagoda during your visit to Kyoto!

In April 2026, “Kyoto In Gion Annex No. 2” was reborn as “Akari Kyoto Gion.”“Share the first light with you.” Guided by the glow of tradition, step into a new Gion story yet to be discovered.Gion is a town where people and culture have continued to intersect for over a thousand years.Like the gentle light of an andon lantern glowing along its quiet lanes, Akari -AKARI- hopes to softly illuminate your journey.Located in the heart of Gion, Akari is your ideal base for experiencing Kyoto more deeply.A 7-minute walk to Yasaka Shrine and a 12-minute walk to Kiyomizu-dera Temple—perfectly situated for sightseeing throughout Kyoto.Breakfast will be renewed from June 2026.Enjoy an interactive onigiri (rice ball) station & soup server, plus a drink bar.From warm onigiri to a more distinctly Kyoto-style Japanese breakfast, we offer you a fresh start to your morning.May this small light lit in Gion grow into a “cultural light” that spreads across Japan and around the world.From here, we will carry the region’s unique charm into the future.

Within walking distance to Shijo Kawaramachi and neighboring the historic Miyagawa-cho, where Maiko gracefully stroll, this location allows you to fully experience the charm of Kyoto. This over 130-year-old townhouse has been beautifully transformed with modern craftsmanship into a comfortable and serene Property featuring natural wood. Situated right behind Kyoto Ebisu Shrine and close to Kyoto's traditional entertainment district lined with numerous tea houses, this townhouse offers a truly Kyoto-like atmosphere where you might even hear the sound of shamisen played by Geiko. Despite its rich cultural surroundings, it is conveniently located near Kyoto's most popular tourist spots and the bustling Shijo Kawaramachi area, ensuring easy access to shopping and dining.