Around Pontocho × Highly rated Hotel·Ryokan

Despite being located in a lively part of town, the property felt like a different world—wrapped in serene tranquility. The cool breeze drifting through the reed doors and the pleasantly textured ajiro weaving, which I experienced for the first time, deeply moved me as part of Japan’s beautiful “summer setting.” Listening to the gentle sound of the shishi-odoshi echoing through the impeccably kept garden and spending time in the dignified tea room were truly luxurious moments that soothed my soul. The food and drinks were also exceptional—everything felt wonderfully satisfying to all five senses. Thank you sincerely for your thoughtful touches throughout. It became a wonderful summer memory, and my first visit back to Kyoto in a while was made even more special.

Thank you very much for a wonderfully comfortable Multiple Night Stay of three nights. When I returned from shopping, a male staff member in the lobby kindly asked, “Shall I take your luggage to your Room first?” Thanks to that, I was able to relax and enjoy sweets and coffee at the café. He was an excellent staff member. As expected of Okura Hotel. I will be staying for another three-night Multiple Night Stay at the beginning of the year, so I look forward to seeing you again.

This was my first stay, and I was very satisfied with this friendly Hotel. It is a wonderful Hotel where I would definitely like to stay again next time. I was happy with everything—service, the Room, the view, the atmosphere, and access—but above all, the breakfast was delicious across the board and left me completely full from the morning. They also helped arrange a surprise for my partner’s birthday, which truly moved us. We look forward to staying again next time.

With Sanjo Station nearby, the location offers excellent access to sightseeing spots, and strolling along the Takase River and the Kamo River just steps away is very pleasant. The breakfast selection was extensive with both Japanese and Western options, and everything was delicious. This is a Hotel I would definitely like to stay at again.

It was a quiet, relaxing Hotel—exactly as expected. The Room was also very comfortable. It made me appreciate the space all over again, and the entire Hotel truly feels like ART. Breakfast was delicious, and I was completely satisfied! All the staff were very kind, and it made me want to stay here again whenever I visit Kyoto.

Even though I’ve walked along Teramachi Street many times, I never noticed this Hotel. It’s also very close to Sanjo Keihan, and it was easy to get there even in the extreme heat because I could walk through the covered shopping arcade. There’s a 7-Eleven downstairs, so there was no trouble at all with shopping or meals. The Room is compact but very functional, and I love that the bath and toilet are separate. The bathroom has a washing area and even a chair—everything you could ask for. There’s also drink service, and many international guests stay here; it seems everyone really appreciates the coin laundry. It’s also convenient for accessing the Tozai Subway Line, which helped me a lot on this trip. Despite all these services, the price is very reasonable. This may become my regular place to stay. Breakfast included eel, so I got a great nutritional boost first thing in the morning. And amazingly, there was an automatic rice dispenser where you press a button and it serves exactly the amount you choose—so impressive. Thank you very much for your hospitality.

I stayed here because I wanted to visit Kibune and Kurama, as well as Kuzuha where my relatives live, and it was convenient for accessing the Keihan Railway. The Room was spacious enough for three people to relax comfortably. Both the toilet and bathroom were large and easy to use. We ate dinner and breakfast outside the Hotel, but it was truly convenient because all the places we wanted to go were nearby. All the staff were kind and very helpful. Thank you very much.

I stayed for an extended period for work, and the sunny, beautiful Room made my stay very comfortable. The breakfast was delicious, and the front desk staff were kind—I was very satisfied. The location also faces the charming Takase River area, and I would love to stay here again when I’m in town for work.

I stayed here for business, but next time I’d love to enjoy it for a private trip. Thank you very much for your hospitality.

Pros: - It’s a reasonably priced Hotel, but perhaps because it’s part of the Banyan Tree chain, the service felt comparable to a high-end Hotel. Even though I stayed only one night, the front desk staff remembered my name, and every staff member was brisk and professional—very pleasant. When I asked after checkout whether they could keep some food refrigerated while storing my luggage, they kindly agreed. - A shower-only setup may be a matter of preference, but since it was midsummer it was perfectly comfortable. If anything, it made the Room feel more spacious. - The small raised tatami area is also relaxing. I would have preferred floor cushions (zabuton) over regular cushions, but that may be intended for international guests. Cons: (all minor “if I had to say” points—not deal-breakers) - The nearest station is Sanjo Keihan, so I wouldn’t say access to all of Kyoto is ideal. That said, the exit is right nearby, so it’s a good location if you plan to visit the surrounding area. - The in-Room TV remote has buttons for Netflix and similar services, but the TV isn’t connected to the internet so you can’t use them—disappointing. - This is common in Ryokan-style properties, but the ceramic washbasin has a rough texture; when washing your face, if your fingers brush against it, it can sting a little. - I used the spa; since it seems to be regular guest Rooms converted into treatment spaces and you step out into a guest-room corridor from reception first, it may feel slightly less “special.” The treatment itself was very good.

I stayed here alone for the first time during the Gion Festival. The clean, elegant interior was very relaxing. The staff were kind and welcoming, and their friendly service made me feel at ease. The refined amenities were more than sufficient, so you can stay comfortably without bringing much. In particular, having the bath and toilet separate was very convenient and allowed me to unwind. This Hotel is such a great value that I almost felt bad paying the sale price!

Everything was wonderful. I checked in feeling completely exhausted that day, but the staff kindly offered to show me where the restaurant was if I didn’t mind, and since they could seat me right away, I ended up having dinner there. As I was dining alone, I asked the staff about portion sizes while ordering, and it turned into a truly delicious and happy meal. The Room was just the right size, so I could relax and recover. The next morning I took it easy as well. I got some cake and bread to take out and went to a friend’s Hotel where they were staying to eat them, and they were so good that I regretted not having breakfast here. I’m sure I’ll stay here again next time!

Located in an excellent spot at Kawaramachi Takoyakushi, it is an ideal base for sightseeing in Kyoto. The Room is spacious, and the layout with a vanity sink in the center is very convenient. With a sliding door separating the bedroom and utility area, we were able to sleep very quietly.

The location was right in the heart of the Kawaramachi downtown area. It was close to the station, with many restaurants nearby, which was great. The Room and bathroom were very clean, so I felt comfortable staying there. The wall-mounted TV felt a bit small. It’s a Hotel with great value for money, and I recommend it.

We stayed at the Accommodation on the last day of our trip to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary. Arriving with excitement after being picked up in a luxury car, we were warmly welcomed by the smiling staff. When we entered our Room, we were delighted by the beautiful interior, a teepee and treats for our dog, and thoughtful hospitality such as chilled champagne and wonderful sweets—our dog was just as excited as we were. They also kindly accommodated our request to take a pre-dinner stroll together with our dog, which became a truly memorable experience. Dinner at the restaurant was outstanding, of course, but we were especially touched by an unexpected surprise after the meal. It became a very happy anniversary. Thank you for your heartfelt hospitality. It was a wonderful Hotel where each member of the staff worked with energy and pride.

The courteous service left the most lasting impression. In addition to the excellent location, the facility was well-maintained, clean, and comfortable. The amenity bar offered a wide variety of items, including cooling foot sheets and face packs, which were much appreciated. Complimentary coffee was available on the front desk floor. With traditional Japanese elements like tatami mats and shoji screens as part of the interior design, many guests were foreigners (mainly Westerners). During my stay, I heard more English than Japanese, which added a travel-like atmosphere even though I stayed for practical purposes. It was a hotel I would love to use again. Thank you very much!

It was a very convenient location for sightseeing on the east side of Kyoto. The mini kitchen, microwave, and toaster provided in the Room were helpful for preparing breakfast and light meals. The atmosphere of the Room and the bed were also comfortable. I would like to use it again if I have another opportunity.

We stayed for New Year's Eve for two consecutive years. We were grateful for the accommodating response to our requests for in-room dining. It was also delightful that the staff remembered us from last year. We enjoyed our traditional New Year's Eve activity of watching the "Kohaku" with delicious food, and towards the end, we could hear the Joya no Kane from Chion-in, making it a wonderful New Year's celebration. We also appreciated the prompt response to our request for a stay certificate afterward.

The space is generous, so even a family of four can stay comfortably. The only downside was that the bathtub felt gritty and needed to be cleaned, and the drain was clogged with debris and hair, which had to be removed.

The location can be a bit tricky to find. First-time visitors might get confused using Google Maps. I ended up calling the Hotel for directions. A good landmark is the corner with a 7-Eleven, where you turn into a side street. The Hotel's location is excellent. It's slightly outside the busiest area of Gion-Shijo but still close enough to access easily. For me, it was an ideal spot with convenient access in all directions. The Facility shows slight signs of age, but the lobby beyond the front desk offers a relaxing space. I appreciated that you must pass through the front desk upon entering and that the elevator is directly in front of it—this added to my sense of security.