Around Gion Festival × 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.

"Hotel Yura Kyoto Yasaka" offers a serene retreat amidst the bustling streets of Kyoto, perfect for exploring Higashiyama's attractions such as Yasaka Shrine, Kodaiji Temple, and Hanamikoji Street where Maiko gracefully stroll. This warm and tranquil accommodation provides the comfort and peace reminiscent of a traditional Ryokan. All 13 rooms are equipped with private Onsen baths, including options with open-air bath terraces where you can enjoy the breeze of Kyoto. Guests can relax in the cozy lounge to share moments during evenings or breakfast time. For dinner, indulge in culinary experiences at our group hotel "Saka no Hotel Kyoto" or within Gion town.The property also features an artisanal gelateria using ingredients from Kyoto, Awaji Island, and Setouchi regions, as well as a Japanese-style spa. This is your ideal base for freely enjoying walks around Yasaka 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.

A refined hideaway in Gion Shimobenten, Kyoto’s historic geisha district—where timeless memories are woven anew— Opening August 2026. Ideally located with views of Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Yasaka Pagoda, the property offers a truly special stay where traditional beauty meets modern sensibility. All 8 guest rooms are sophisticated spaces inspired by Japan’s traditional colors. On the upper floors, enjoy sweeping views of the Higashiyama mountains; on the lower floors, immerse yourself in the charm of the hanamachi for a luxurious, unhurried time. We also offer cultural experiences unique to our property, such as authentic yukata you can take home and private ozashiki entertainment with a maiko. Savor an exceptional Kyoto stay with your dedicated concierge.

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.

A Hotel created by restoring a historic building into guest rooms in one of Kyoto’s most storied districts.In the Okazaki area, we offer a breakfast lounge with views of the scenic garden “Shin’en” within Heian Shrine.Your stay itself becomes a cultural experience—a new way to travel in Kyoto.With easy access to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, and Kodai-ji Temple, our location is ideal for exploring Kyoto.To help you enjoy an even more fulfilling trip, our knowledgeable concierge will suggest unique ways to spend your time that can only be experienced here. Please feel free to consult us if you would like to visit nearby attractions or celebrate a special birthday or anniversary with family, as a couple, or with your partner.Through your stay at our Hotel, we invite you on a journey to discover Kyoto’s hidden charms and enjoy truly enriching moments.

Since its construction in 1909 by tobacco magnate Kichibei Murai, Chourakukan has welcomed a wide range of guests from Japan and abroad as a place of warm hospitality.From some of Japan’s most renowned figures to royalty and ambassadors from around the world, distinguished visitors gathered here to spend glittering moments in an atmosphere of refined elegance. And now, 110 years later.Though times have changed, the echoes of its splendid history remain, and you will be embraced by the same sense of fulfillment that has endured since then.

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.

Serene and warm, experience the chanting at the property. "Chion-in Wajun Kaikan" has been established in Higashiyama, Kyoto, a place rich in nature. Feel the breeze, admire seasonal flowers, enjoy festival music, and savor seasonal flavors. Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, relax, and align your mind with chanting. With Chion-in's unique hospitality, we deliver true relaxation.

Upon entering, you are greeted by a grand open space with a high ceiling and historic beams extending upward. The rustic charm of the repaired earthen walls adds to the ambiance. This spacious area is warmly illuminated, creating a unique atmosphere.

Kyoto has the term "ho-kko-ri." After a busy day's work, enjoying carefully brewed tea while saying "ho-kko-ri" expresses a feeling of relaxation. Gion Shinmonso strives daily to be a "ho-kko-ri" Property where guests can relieve their travel fatigue. We look forward to welcoming you.

<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.

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.