Gion Yoshiima in Kyoto

Excellent service, lovely authentic Japanese Ryokan experience, tea ceremony was worth the small extra fee

I really enjoyed staying at this ryokan in Gion, Kyoto. I only stayed for one night but I wish I had stayed for longer!
Upon arrival, you must remove your shoes before entering and checking in. The check in process was quick and simple. Once checked in at the front desk, I was taken to my room and a member of staff sat with me at the table and poured tea etc. Possibly due to language barriers though, it was entirely clear what was going on the whole time so I was mostly just confused. It would have been nice to have some form of explanation beforehand as to the check in process and what was expected when staying at the property so that I appreciated the experience as it happened. I did receive a leaflet on all such things post-check in (which was an amazing touch!) so I guess I learnt in hindsight what had happened! I left the property soon after but upon return, the staff had clearly been in my room to tidy away the tea etc, which again I was not aware would be happening!
The location of the property was really great and I was able to walk to most places I wanted to visit, other than most temples which I got public transport/a taxi to.
The room itself was beautifully traditional, though the bathroom facilities were very basic. The futon bed was very comfortable and I had a great night's sleep. It was certainly an experience to stay in the room and try on the traditional clothing provided.
The room included breakfast (was unaware of this too!) that was to be delivered to the room but I was unable to experience this as I left earlier than the breakfast time. Check out was simply handing back the key before leaving so was very quick! The property gave me a lovely souvenir to take back too which, again, was a lovely touch!
Overall, a really great property that I wish I'd had more time to experience!

It is located across the bridge from the popular restaurant district. We found it extremely easy to get to. The staff greeted us warmly and were extremely helpful. The breakfast was incredible and was the cherry on top for our experience. The only advice I have to share is that there are many mosquitos in the garden (can’t be helped) and to be ready for breakfast 30 minutes before your time.

Staff were all 10/10 amazing.
What a cool experience and very relaxing!

A true Japanese experience. A wonderful little hotel that gives you an insight to the Japanese culture. It was basic (in Japanese style) but had everything you needed, the staff were extremely friendly and helpful. I was worried about sleeping on a futon but had the best nights sleep all holiday. The dinner experience was good although was very rushed, the food was being brought out far too quickly and there was a lot of it. It was lovely and very appealing to look at. The hotel was in a lovely spot very close to the high street with bars.

Something to remember
Amazing experience, a very good night sleep in Japanese traditional lodging.

I’m very grateful for this stay, it was an amazing and calming cultural experience that came with a delicious breakfast in the morning and the option to reserve a private bath time in the nice wooden hot tub. I’d really recommend coming earlier in the day to experience the central garden/tea house area, as it is quite beautiful. The room is incredibly large and spacious as well. While it got a little chilly at night, I was provided with a space heater that made the room nice and cozy.

Nice and affordable traditional ryokan in heart of Kyoto. Room was clean and spacious, with a balcony view on picturesque bamboo garden and teahouse. Breakfast is also delicious. Nice present after checkout :)

Fantastic Ryokan if you want an authentic Japanese hotel experience. It takes a little getting used to for the slipper swap but it just adds to the authenticity. Also be ready for breakfast 30 min before your requested time.

We stayed here for two nights and were blown away by the level of hospitality and commitment to giving guests an authentic Japanese experience. As soon as we arrived, we were whisked into our room and served tea. We enjoyed sleeping on futon beds and the relaxing traditional room space. The small garden space was beautiful. Our traditional Japanese breakfast was delicious and we opted into a traditional Kaiseki-style dinner, which was a foodie highlight of Japan. We enjoyed reading about the ryokan and other aspects of traditional culture in Kyoto during our stay. Special mention to the staff, who went above and beyond to take care of us.