Takao Kanko Hotel

9.0
This Ryokan has an overall rating of 9.0/10, based on 505 reviews. ? Our score combines two signals: 50% based on traveler sentiment and guest feedback found online, and 50% based on our internal on-site evaluation plus ratings from verified travelers on our platform, who must provide proof of stay.
? This ranking compares properties in the same region. It is based on the overall rating and the number of reviews, using a weighted score so properties with more review data are ranked more fairly.
Check-in from 3:00 PM / Check-out until 10:00 AM
Mountain Setting Forest Surroundings Riverside Location Valley Scenery Hot Spring Town Public Onsen
Staff 9,5/10
Facilities 8,6/10
Cleanliness 8,9/10
Comfort 9,0/10
Value for money 8,6/10
Location 9,2/10

Ryokan highlights

A traditional Kyoto ryokan in the forested Takao valley, known for river dining and seasonal scenery.

Takao Valley SettingIn Kyoto’s Takao area, surrounded by greenery, river sounds, and a quieter mountain atmosphere.
Riverfront SceneryThe clear Kiyotaki River runs in front, adding relaxing views and a distinctly scenic stay.
Seasonal Kyoto ViewsFresh greenery, summer fireflies, and vivid autumn leaves make the seasons a major draw.
Kawadoko DiningKnown for traditional riverside dining in season, a memorable Kyoto-style experience.
Jingoji NearbyWell placed for visiting Mt. Takao’s Jingoji Temple and exploring the historic Takao area.
Large Baths ParkingOffers two large communal baths and free parking for travelers arriving by car.

Who is this ryokan best for?

Recommended stay1 nightScenery and temple access are the main drivers here: arrive in the afternoon, use the large shared bath, have dinner, sleep in the quiet valley, then visit Jingo-ji and nearby Takao temples the next morning before moving on. A second night only makes sense if you want a slow foliage, summer riverside-dining, or hiking pace.
Trip-planning verdict: Best used as a short scenic and temple-focused retreat in Kyoto’s Takao mountains rather than as a long sightseeing base.

Know before booking

Not a city baseAbout 50 minutes by bus from Kyoto Station, so repeated city-center sightseeing days are inefficient.
Limited bath privacyVerified bathing is via large communal baths; do not book expecting private in-room onsen luxury.
Thin evening optionsThe area is quiet and rural, with little nightlife or late casual dining around the property.
Seasonal appeal mattersA second night is most justified in autumn foliage or summer kawadoko season; otherwise one night is usually enough.

Food & drinks

Verified as the ryokan at 5 Takao-cho, Umegahata, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, with on-site seasonal riverbed dining and nearby local meal spots in Takao.

Dining Room (on-site)
on-site

Main on-site meal venue for seasonal Kyoto cuisine.

  • Seasonal kaisekifoodMulti-course Kyoto-style dinner.
  • Hot tofufoodSimple warm tofu meal.
  • Packed lunchfoodLight set meal option.
  • Local sakedrinkKyoto sake paired with meals.
Kawadoko (on-site)
on-site

Seasonal riverside dining by the Kiyotaki River.

  • Riverbed lunchspecialtyOutdoor meal in season.
  • Seasonal kaisekifoodCourse meal served by the river.
  • Matsutake kaisekifoodPine mushroom course in season.
  • Maiko eveningspecialtyDinner setting may include dance viewing.
Yamamoto Shokudo (nearby)
nearbynear the ryokan

Casual local restaurant and shop near the Takao bus stop.

  • Kamameshi chazukefoodRice pot with tea and Kyoto pickles.
  • UdonfoodHot noodle dish.
  • DonburifoodRice bowl meals.
  • Local sakedrinkRegional sake sold on site.
  • Local beerdrinkKyoto-area beer.

Access, transport and nearby sights

Takao Kanko Hotel is a hillside riverside ryokan in Kyoto’s Takao area that is most practically reached by bus or taxi rather than on foot from any rail station.

Distances are approximate and calculated from the ryokan coordinates. Travel times may vary depending on route, traffic and schedules.

Should you choose this ryokan?

A strong pick for travelers who want a traditional Kyoto ryokan stay in a quiet mountain-side setting near Takao’s famous temples. It is less suitable if you want easy city-center access, modern luxury, or lots of nightlife and dining nearby.

5 reasons to choose this ryokan best points
  • Scenic riverside settingThis ryokan is set in Kyoto’s Takao area, surrounded by forested hills and river scenery that feels far calmer than central Kyoto. It suits travelers who want a nature-focused stay rather than an urban hotel experience.
  • Great base for Jingo-ji visitsIt is very close to Jingo-ji, making early or unhurried temple visits especially appealing. That location is a real advantage if Takao’s historic temple district is one of your main reasons for coming.
  • Classic Japanese room experienceThe property offers Japanese-style rooms with tatami and futon bedding, which gives the stay a distinctly ryokan atmosphere. Some rooms also emphasize river views, adding to the traditional Kyoto feel.
  • Traditional meals are a highlightThe inn is known for serving traditional Japanese meals, and this is one of the most memorable parts of the stay for guests seeking a fuller ryokan experience. It is especially appealing if you want dinner and breakfast to feel local and seasonal.
  • Warm, personal hospitalityService is often described as especially attentive, which matters a lot in a smaller traditional property. Travelers who value kindness, help with logistics, and a more human welcome may find it very rewarding.
5 reasons not to choose this ryokan watch-outs
  • Far from central KyotoThe hotel is in the Takao mountainside area, so reaching downtown Kyoto and major transport hubs takes noticeable time. It is not the most practical base for travelers planning constant city sightseeing.
  • Limited around-the-corner optionsThis is a quiet area rather than a neighborhood packed with cafes, shops, and nightlife. If you like stepping outside to many casual dining and convenience options, the setting may feel too isolated.
  • Traditional style may feel datedTravelers looking for sleek contemporary design or luxury polish may find the atmosphere more old-school than refined. The charm is traditional, but that also means it may not feel modern in every detail.
  • Tatami and futons are not for everyoneSleeping on futons and using a more traditional room layout can be uncomfortable for guests who prefer standard Western beds and hotel ergonomics. This matters even more on longer stays.
  • Best experience depends on your itineraryThe property makes the most sense if you specifically want Takao’s nature, temples, and slower pace. If Arashiyama, Gion, Kyoto Station, or evening city exploration are your priorities, the location can become inconvenient.

Ranking around this ryokan in Kyoto

Showing 5 above and 5 below the current ryokan. The full ranking loads only when you click or hover over this block.

Current position: 73rd out of 141 ryokans in Kyoto.

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