Towa Ryokan
9,1/10 Exceptional - Based on 482 reviews
Offering a true haven of serenity just ten minutes from Kyoto Station, Towa Ryokan invites you to an authentic experience blending Japanese hospitality with soothing calm. Upon arrival, a welcome green tea prepares you for a stay punctuated by moments of well-being: the spacious public bath and personalized services simply embody the art of relaxation. Ideally located for exploring the nearby Nishi and Higashi Honganji temples, this ryokan in Kyoto stands out for its gentle harmony between tradition and modern comfort.
Offering a range of rooms suited to families as well as travelers seeking personal retreat, Towa Ryokan’s spaces respect the elegance of Japanese style. Adorned with tatami and equipped with futons in the main building or beds in a charming Kyomachiya, each accommodation comes with practical touches such as air conditioning, a refrigerator, and a private bathroom, ensuring absolute comfort while staying true to the codes of Japanese minimalism.
On the flavor side, the Ryokan stands out for its attentive and varied cuisine. Traditional meals, whether served in the dining room or directly in the room, adapt to vegetarian, vegan, or pescatarian preferences, thus revealing true attention to detail. Nearby, local restaurants such as 和にち or パッチョコーネ enrich this culinary getaway, allowing visitors to discover the authentic taste of Kyoto in every bite.
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By using this link, you may benefit from a Genius discount of 10% or more.
Book on Booking.com
A Genius discount of 10% or more may apply via this link.
Japanese Authenticity Evaluation
8/10 A beautiful balance between modernity and tradition is felt with rooms offering tatamis and classic Japanese elements. The cuisine focuses on refined presentations and local products, typical of kaiseki. The absence of a real onsen slightly reduces the overall authenticity of the experience.
Highlights of the Ryokan
Public Bath
Massages
Tatami
Refrigerator
Wi-Fi Connection
Parking
Air Conditioning
Breakfast
Positive Reviews
Exceptional hospitality and kindness
The staff are incredibly kind, attentive, and always ready to help. Guests consistently mention feeling warmly welcomed and well cared for throughout their stay.
Authentic Japanese experience
The ryokan offers a traditional Japanese atmosphere with futons, tatami mats, and ceremonies like tea service, providing guests with a unique and immersive cultural experience.
Delicious and generous breakfasts
Breakfasts are described as delicious, copious, and authentically Japanese, with some options to adapt for those less used to local flavors. Meals served in-room are also highly praised.
Convenient location near Kyoto station
The establishment is located close to Kyoto station and bus lines, making it easy for guests to access public transport and explore the city.
Clean and comfortable rooms
Rooms are noted as very clean, comfortable, and often spacious. The futons are comfortable and the atmosphere is calm and peaceful, ensuring a restful stay.
Relaxing public baths and extra amenities
Guests appreciate the public baths in the basement, which add to the traditional experience. Additional services like massages are also available and enjoyed by visitors.
Negative Reviews
Breakfast schedule is early and fixed
Some guests mention that breakfast is served early at a set time (7:30 am) with no option to choose a later hour, which may not suit everyone’s preferences.
Traditional breakfast may surprise some tastes
The Japanese breakfast, while authentic and well-prepared, can be surprising for those not used to local flavors, especially early in the morning.
Some rooms are small or basic
A few reviews note that the rooms can be small or basic, making it difficult to open large suitcases or lacking more intimate lighting options.
Bathroom and shower facilities could be improved
There are occasional comments about older bathroom facilities and limited hot water in the showers after a few minutes, though overall cleanliness is praised.
Location not in main tourist area
While the ryokan is near the station, it is not located in the main tourist district. However, bus connections are convenient for sightseeing.
Public bath is not a true onsen
Some guests point out that the public bath is not a natural onsen but rather a hot bath, and facilities are described as basic.
Does the ryokan have an onsen?
Towa Ryokan offers a spacious public bath located in the basement where guests can relax. While it is not a natural onsen, the bath is designed to provide an authentic relaxation experience.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
You can check in at Towa Ryokan between 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM. Check-out must be done between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM.
What languages are spoken at the ryokan?
The staff at Towa Ryokan speaks Japanese and English, providing good support for international visitors.
Are there any restrictions or particular regulations to be aware of?
Towa Ryokan is entirely non-smoking and does not accept pets. Children over 6 years old are charged at the adult rate.
What wellness services do you offer?
The ryokan offers public baths for relaxation as well as massage services, available at an additional cost.
What types of meals can be enjoyed at the ryokan?
Towa Ryokan offers traditional Japanese breakfast and dinner, which can be served in the dining room or in-room. Vegetarian, vegan, and pescatarian meals are also available upon request, to be specified at least 3 days before your arrival.
Is parking available?
Yes, public parking is available near the ryokan at a rate of 2000 JPY per day. Please note that it is not possible to reserve a spot in advance.
What tourist attractions are nearby?
Towa Ryokan is located within walking distance of the Nishi Honganji and Higashi Honganji temples. Additionally, popular sites like Kiyomizu-dera, Nijō Castle, and the Kyoto Imperial Palace are easily accessible by car or public transportation.
Are pets allowed in the establishment?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed in Towa Ryokan to maintain a comfortable and hygienic environment for all guests.
What cultural activities are available in the surroundings?
Guests can enjoy cultural activities such as traditional cooking classes offered by the establishment and explore nearby museums, like the Kyoto National Museum and the Kyoto International Manga Museum.
What are the main means of transportation to get to the ryokan?
Towa Ryokan is easily accessible on foot from JR Kyoto Station, located just 10 minutes away. The Gojo and Kujo subway stations are also nearby to facilitate your travels around the city.
Can I benefit from Genius discounts?
Yes, Towa Ryokan offers Genius discounts. You must log in to your Genius account before booking to see if discounts are available for your stay dates.
