Inn Kawashima
8,7/10 Excellent - Based on 470 reviews
Anchored in Japanese tradition, Inn Kawashima is a ryokan in Kyoto where calm and authenticity welcome every visitor. Its zen-like gardens and soothing common areas invite you to a true escape of serenity. Here, the elegant simplicity of wood and the charm of tatami create an atmosphere conducive to relaxation, while the family bath and services such as luggage storage ensure cozy comfort during your stay.
Respecting the Japanese way of life, the ryokan’s rooms are covered with tatamis and equipped with futons that promise a restful sleep. With a refined decoration and traditional furniture, they offer the perfect balance between tradition and modern convenience, such as free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV. This authentic place is ideal for families and couples seeking an immersion in Japanese culture, just steps away from the vibrant center of Kyoto.
To satisfy appetites and awaken the taste buds, Inn Kawashima prepares a variety of breakfasts, mixing Western flavors and local specialties. All meals, including refined Japanese dinners, are served in the intimacy of your room. Nearby, a multitude of small typical restaurants adds a touch of gourmet delight to your getaway, making this ryokan in Kyoto an ideal gateway to the art of local cuisine and hospitality.
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Japanese Authenticity Evaluation
8/10 Ensuring a captivating immersion, this establishment perfectly blends traditional charm with a peaceful atmosphere thanks to its tatami spaces and outdoor garden. However, specific details such as the integration of onsen baths or gastronomy could be improved to achieve total perfection.
Highlights of the Ryokan
Tatami
Wi-Fi Connection
Air Conditioning
Breakfast
Positive Reviews
Authentic Japanese experience
Guests appreciate the traditional ryokan atmosphere, with tatami rooms, yukata, and Japanese breakfasts, offering an authentic immersion into Japanese culture and hospitality.
Excellent location in Kyoto
The accommodation is centrally located, close to restaurants, main streets, and public transport, making it easy to explore Kyoto’s attractions and neighborhoods.
Friendly and helpful staff
Many reviews highlight the kindness and attentiveness of the owners and staff, who are welcoming, speak good English, and provide useful assistance during the stay.
Cleanliness and comfort
Rooms and common areas are frequently described as very clean, well-maintained, and comfortable, with daily cleaning and attention to detail.
Spacious and well-equipped rooms
Guests enjoy spacious rooms, comfortable futons, and thoughtful amenities like tea, snacks, and storage space for luggage, enhancing the overall comfort.
Peaceful and calm atmosphere
The ryokan is praised for its quiet, serene setting, often feeling like a peaceful retreat away from the city’s bustle, with beautiful gardens and traditional decor.
Negative Reviews
Shared bathrooms can be busy
Some guests mention that the shared bathrooms and showers can get crowded or require waiting, especially during peak hours, but they remain clean and functional.
Thin walls and noise
A few reviews note that the walls are thin, so sounds from neighboring rooms can be heard. However, guests generally respect quiet hours and maintain a peaceful environment.
Difficult to find entrance
The entrance to the ryokan can be hard to spot, particularly for tired travelers, but once found, guests are pleased with the location and ambiance.
Slight odor in men's toilets
A minor comment is made about a slight odor in the men’s restrooms, though it did not significantly impact the stay and overall cleanliness remains high.
Cool temperatures in bathrooms
Some guests found the bathrooms and showers a bit cold at times, especially in winter, but this did not detract from the overall positive experience.
Limited number of showers
There is only one shower for the whole ryokan, which can lead to short waits during busy times, but most guests did not find this to be a major inconvenience.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Inn Kawashima?
Check-in is from 15:00 to 23:00, and check-out must be done between 07:30 and 10:00. Please note there is a curfew between 23:00 and 07:30.
What languages are spoken at the ryokan?
The staff at Inn Kawashima speaks Japanese. It is recommended to have translation apps or a few phrases in Japanese to facilitate communication.
Does the establishment have an onsen?
Inn Kawashima offers a family bath. However, it is not a traditional onsen fed by hot springs.
What type of meals is offered at Inn Kawashima?
The ryokan offers a complimentary Western breakfast, and a Japanese breakfast is available for an additional charge. For dinner, Japanese dishes are served in the comfort of your room.
Is parking available?
The establishment does not have parking. It is advised to use public transport or nearby public parking.
What tourist activities are close to Inn Kawashima?
The ryokan is located a few minutes’ walk from Shijo subway station and near tourist sites such as Takashimaya department store, Yasaka Shrine, and Nishi-Hongan-ji Temple, accessible in less than 10 minutes by taxi.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are not allowed in the establishment.
What cultural activities can be discovered nearby?
You can visit the Kyoto International Manga Museum, the Kyoto National Museum, and attend ikebana initiation sessions at the Ikebana Museum, all easily accessible from the ryokan.
How to get to Inn Kawashima by public transport?
Inn Kawashima is 350 meters from Shijo subway station and near Karasuma and Kawaramachi stations, offering easy access to public transport.
What rules should be followed during my stay?
Guests must respect a curfew from 23:00 to 07:30 and avoid making noise between 21:00 and 09:00. Parties and events are not allowed.
Are wellness services offered?
While Inn Kawashima offers a family bath, it does not have traditional spa or wellness services. However, the peaceful atmosphere and baths can offer a moment of relaxation.
Is Wi-Fi available in all rooms?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the establishment.
