The beautiful Arashiyama district is on the western edge of Kyoto in Japan and offers both a site of historic importance and scenic beauty. What better place to sit back and unwind in a traditional Japanese-style hotel, which are called ryokans. If you have not stayed in a ryokan before, then we strongly recommend that you do. They are a fantastic way to experience an older style of Japanese culture, from the clothes that you wear, to the room layouts, cuisine, and even the beds. This list will walk you through the top eight ryokans in Arashiyama, Kyoto.
1. Kyoto Ranzan (from USD 84)
This beautiful ryokan may be the last entry in our list but that doesn’t mean that its in the last place in our hearts. Simply walk up to the gates and you’ll start to feel relaxed. There are both Western style beds and tatami mats depending on your own personal preferences. Once you’re settled into your room, we’re sure that you’ll enjoy relaxing in the seating area with the views into the tree-tops.
Ranzan
Address: Ukyo-ku Tenryuji Susukinobaba-cho 33
Parking Restaurant Meeting/banquet facilities Garden Non-smoking rooms Family rooms Free parking Internet services
2. Togetsutei
This medium sized ryokan offers 25 traditional Japanese-style rooms each with their own private bathroom. Food is included in the price of the room; breakfast is served in the banquet hall whilst dinner is served privately in the comfort of your own room. The onsen section is split into male and female but you can reserve a private onsen for yourself or your group.
Togetsutei
Address: 54-4 Arashiyama_Nakaoshita-cho, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto 616-0004, Kyoto Prefecture
Price: from 300 USD / 32,830 JPY
3. Kyoto Arashiyama Onsen Kadensho
A large modern ryokan is next on our list, which features 105 rooms, two shared hot springs, and five that are reservable. Extra food is available throughout the day but we’re sure that you’ll be full from the fresh and delicious breakfast that is served. Traditional attire is optional at this ryokan, so if you like, you can relax in your own clothes and enjoy the environment.
Kyoto Arashiyama Onsen Kadensho
Address: 5-4 Arashiyama Nishiichikawacho Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto 616-0003, Kyoto Prefecture
Price: from 288 USD / 31,482 JPY
4. Hoshinoya Kyoto
This ryokan is what dreams are made of – it really will feel just like a fairytale! The only way to reach the fully restored century-old property is by taking a gentle ride on a boat. Once you arrive, you can take a stroll around the beautifully kept grounds and talk to the friendly staff. Kaiseki meals are loving crafted and delivered to your private rooms.
Hoshinoya Kyoto
Address: 11-2, Genrokuzan-cho, Arashiyama, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto 616-0007
Price: from 141 USD / 15,998 JPY
5. Ryotei Rangetsu (from USD 446)
An elegant gate welcomes you to Ryotei Rangetsu. Expect the artful combination of luxury and tradition at this ryokan with their accommodation and facilities. You won’t be disappointed dining at Ryotei Rangetsu either, as meals are thoughtfully prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. A large communal cypress bath is available for women while there is a rock bath for men. Relieve your stress in the natural spring baths and enjoy the landscape that has shaped Arashimaya for 240 million years. The hotel also accepts reservations for anniversary celebrations or other special occasions. Make your holiday or special days more memorable by spending it in a place which lets you experience Japan the traditional way!
旅亭 嵐月
Address: 京都府京都市右京区嵯峨天龍寺芒ノ馬場町7
6. Hanaikada (from USD 354)
You can expect an authentic experience at this ryokan, located just at the head of the Togutsekyu bridge with beautiful views. Wonderfully prepared kaiseki cuisine (which is a multi-course dinner) is served to all guests, an indoor and outdoor onsen is available, and because it is family owned, you get a truly unique and intimate experience. This is a perfect ryokan for couples to share a special vacation together.
Hanaikada
Address: Nishikyo-ku Arashiyama Nakaoshitacho 57
Accommodates: 10
Parking Restaurant Garden Non-smoking rooms Free parking Internet services Lift Massage
7. Ryotei Rangetsu (from USD 337)
A quiet and relaxing ryokan away from the hustle and bustle of city life is a perfect place to relax, and the views from this property are amazing. Rooms can come with either a mountain view or a private onsen, and all rooms come standard with air conditioning, traditional tatami floors, and futon style bedding.
Ryotei Rangetsu
Address: 7 Susukinobaba-cho, Sagatenryuji, Saga Tenryuji, Ukyo, Kyoto, Kyoto, JPN, 6168385
Public Bath CCTV outside property Free parking On-site parking Linens, towels and laundry washed in accordance with local authority guidelines First aid kit available Process in place to check health of guests Breakfast in the room
8. Arashiyama Benkei (from USD 720)
This traditional style ryokan was built in the Heian Period (794 to 1185) as a country estate used to welcome holidaying court nobles. Located on the river, this exquisite high-end accommodation features both indoor and outdoor natural hot baths. As a traditional ryokan, expect tatami (woven-straw) flooring and futon style bedding, and remember that as with many ryokans the price includes catering. Yukatas are provided upon arrival and are the perfect way to prepare to indulge in the Japanese experience.
嵐山辨慶
Address: 京都府京都市右京区嵯峨天龍寺芒ノ馬場町34番地
Decisions, decisions
We love the fact that many ryokans offer both Japanese style bedrooms and Western bedrooms, although I’d personally always opt for the Japanese rooms with the tatami mats, sliding doors, and floor seating areas because I feel like this really sets the mood and welcomes a truly traditional experience. You could always try the Japanese style room for a few days and then stay in a western room… I think that is what they call “the best of both worlds.”
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