Ryokan · Kyoto · Kyoto
Ryokan Sawaya Honten
A 2-star ryokan in Kyoto’s Sakyo ward, steps from Shogoin and close to Gion, with public baths, free Wi-Fi, and a 9.2 guest rating.
- 9.2 guest rating from 618 reviews
- Adults-only, traditional atmosphere
- Public bath and free Wi-Fi in rooms
About
Ryokan Sawaya Honten
Ryokan Sawaya Honten sits in Kyoto’s quiet Sakyo ward, a 6-minute walk from Shogoin and close to the Kamo River, temples, and the subway. The 2-star property keeps a traditional feel with a shared lounge, leisure/TV room, and public bath – a genuine onsen-style escape without leaving the city.
Rooms range from compact economy quarters to superior twins and quadruple configurations, all with air conditioning, heating, and free Wi-Fi. The ryokan is adults-only, so it suits couples or solo travellers seeking calm. With a 9.2 rating and consistently high marks for comfort and service, it is run with care.
- No smoking on site
- Safe deposit box
- No pets allowed
- 24-hour security
- Adults only
- Smoke detectors
In brief
What works, what to weigh
Strengths
4 reasons to book- Tranquil traditional setting — A quiet, adults-only ryokan in Sakyo ward, far from the bustle but still within easy reach of major sights.
- High guest satisfaction — A 9.2 overall rating from 618 reviews, with standout scores for rooms, service, and value.
- Caring, attentive staff — Guests repeatedly praise the staff’s friendliness, helpfulness, and readiness to assist, even at night.
- Genuine public bath — An on-site public bath (onsen) that guests describe as refreshing after long days of sightseeing.
Worth weighing
4 to weigh- Limited check-in window — Check-in is only from 16:00 to 21:00, so late arrivals need planning.
- Adult-focused stay — Children are not accommodated, which may exclude families travelling with kids.
- No on-site dining certainty — While reviews mention excellent food, breakfast specifics and meal availability aren’t detailed.
- Rooms vary in amenities — Economy Quadruple has listed private bath and AC, but other room types don’t specify if they include private bathrooms or other extras.
01 — Rooms
Rooms & rates
High season: summer dates usually book out a few weeks ahead.
Standard Quadruple Room
- Sleeping arrangements for 4 persons
Superior Twin Room
- 2 Single beds
Superior Quadruple Room
- Sleeping arrangements for 4 persons
Economy Room
Economy Quadruple Room
- Sleeping arrangements for 4 persons
- Shower
- Heating
- Bathtub
- Air conditioning
02 — Amenities
Services & amenities
Everything included at this stay — the facilities and essentials, at a glance.
Comfort
- Air conditioning
- Heating
- Free toiletries
- Flat-screen TV
Wellness
- Public Bath
- Leisure/TV room
- Shared lounge
Services
- Free Wi-Fi in rooms
- Laundry
- Tours/Ticket assistance
- Safe deposit box
Safety
- 24-hour security
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
- Key card access
- No smoking on site
Photos
Gallery
03 — Reviews
What guests say
Recent verified reviews from guests who stayed here.
Guest-rated 9.2/10 from 618 reviews
9.2Verified guest“Free Wi-Fi, 24-hour security, and air conditioning were all solid. The staff sorted out a room issue even late at night, and their friendly manner was a real plus. I’ll be back for New Year.”
9.2Verified guest“The room was cosy and well laid out, with a lovely garden view. Perfect location near restaurants, attractions, the railway and bus routes.”
9.2Verified guest“A cosy, well-organised room with a private bathroom. Unbeatable location close to North East temples, Kyoto and Osaka, and Pontocho.”
9.2Verified guest“A decent spot in a quiet area with an unbeatable location and plenty of great breakfast choices nearby.”
9.2Verified guest“Our superior twin with private bathroom was excellent. The staff were attentive and provided great service. Facilities were good, and the location is really close to Gion, Pontocho, the subway, and bus stops.”
9.2Verified guest“Comfortable room, with thoughtful touches like coin exchange and an excellent laundry service. Location was perfect – a 5-minute walk to public transport that connected us easily to the city.”
04 — Location
Getting around Kyoto
The property sits in Kyoto.
Around the ryokan: You’re 6 minutes’ walk from Shogoin, and within easy reach of the Kamo River, temples, and subway. Quiet streets keep the area calm.
Eating out: Guests recommend the nearby eateries, and several note the abundance of breakfast options within walking distance.
Getting around: A 5-minute walk gets you to public transport – subway and bus stops that connect to central Kyoto, Gion, and Pontocho.
Sakyo-Ku Shogoin Kawahara-Cho 25, Kyoto, Kyoto, 606-8397, Japan
05 — Good to know
Policies & conditions
Hotel details are shown for reference. Final rate terms are confirmed on the partner’s site at booking.
- Check-in
- From 16:00-21:00
- Check-out
- By 06:00-10:00
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation on many rates — terms on booking page
- Payment
- Pay-at-hotel available on many rates; final terms at booking
- Pets
- Not allowed
- Property
- 13 rooms
06 — Questions
Frequently asked
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is from 16:00 to 21:00, and check-out is from 06:00 to 10:00.
Is there a public bath at the ryokan?
Yes, the property has a public bath (onsen) that guests often enjoy after exploring the city.
Are children allowed?
No, this is an adults-only ryokan, so children are not accommodated.
Is free Wi-Fi available?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms.
Is breakfast served on site?
While reviews mention a traditional breakfast and fabulous food, specific meal availability and pricing are not specified in our data.
Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted.
What are the room options?
The ryokan offers a standard Guest Room, Economy, Superior Twin, and Quadruple configurations (sleeping up to 4).
The bottom line
A quiet, well-run ryokan that delivers comfort and attentive service at a fair price – ideal for adults wanting a traditional base to explore Kyoto.
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