We thought about not writing this one as it was always going to need to be a dreadful review to be accurate, but that fact that we spent so much money on this place and that it was so very very short of the mark we felt we owed it to others to warn them...||||We stayed a few nights in this ryokan and we were really looking forward to it. We spent much of the time however trying to escape the room and anxious about how and when we were going to be able to bath next (or shower!)||||So. It is a ryokan so we had done our research and were very interested in eager to stay. This ryokan however caters for no one. It is primarily the washing bathing matter that needs urgent address, by that I mean there are 2shared bathrooms ( both with Japanese bath and shower inside) for the guests. Whereas this would be fine if it was true Japanese style and meant that you had access to these facilities whenever you liked but accepted that there may be others in the shared bath as that is the traditional way,||||Here though you do not, you need to book a bath or shower in advance. The occasion that really sealed this doomed place for us is that it took us 3 hours to organise a bath (one room of which is lovely the other fairly ordinary) to be then told we had to shower ( for no apparent reason!,,). So sorry but for eastern or westerners alike ie for adult human beings, this is wholly and totally repugnant offensive and a model that makes one feel like one is on school camp. ||||If you had you own bath here then that would significantly alter this review I think. ||However I must also say that our room whilst quite charming inside was right next to reception with Japanese style walls ie paper so ALL light and noise came streaming though without cease! I am not sure what can really be done about this appart from having many more separate showers....||||We felt quite sad at the end as it tainted this part of our trip and we felt the owner really didn’t understand so little point in trying to engage in any meaningful feedback.||||All this would be fine (back to back packer days!) except that we paid something horrendous like 500$ Australian per day!||Well you live you learn...||||Other ryokans we stayed in were far far far superior (...
Read moreI recently had the pleasure of staying at the Inn Nishijinso. It was a truly exceptional experience. From the moment we stepped into the traditional Japanese inn, we were greeted with warm hospitality and a serene atmosphere.
The breakfast was an absolute feast for the senses, with a stunning array of dishes that showcased the best of Kyoto's culinary traditions. Each item was expertly prepared and presented with the utmost care.
But the food wasn't the only highlight of my stay. The traditional Japanese bath, or onsen, was an experience I will never forget. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring the city.
The Ryokan itself is beautifully designed, with traditional Japanese architecture and furnishings that transport you back in time. The attention to detail is impressive, with every aspect of the Ryokan thoughtfully considered to create a truly authentic experience. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with tatami flooring and futon beds that are surprisingly cozy.
The Okami and the manager are incredibly welcoming and friendly, always happy to offer recommendations and advice on the best places to visit in Kyoto. The manager is very proficient in English. The level of service is exceptional.
Overall, I cannot recommend this Ryokan enough. The attention to detail, the warm hospitality, and the beautiful setting all come together to create a truly unforgettable experience. For anyone looking for a traditional Japanese inn experience in Kyoto at a very affordable price, the Inn Nishijinso is an...
Read moreAs we walked through the tranquil front garden and into the doors of Yayoda Nishijinso we were immediately greeted with one of the ubiquitous smiles from our gracious hosts, this set the tone for our stay. Combine a beautifully ambient location with the down-to-earth charm of our friendly hosts and you have a ryokan that simply cannot be missed. The traditional home stay experience began with our gracious host explaining the 'need to knows' of Kyoto, bus routes to major shrines, popular places to eat, and provided us with annotated maps. Before we had checked in we felt we had already grasped a good understanding of the ins and outs of this stunning ancient locale. Our room did not disappoint, tatami mat floors, complimentary kimonos, a splendid view of the garden from our small terrace, even some complimentary Japanese green tea. A highlight was definitely the private onsen, couples can bathe together. Our host explained to us how to have a traditional Japanese bath and the onsen did not disappoint, large warm bath with a small window looked out onto a quaint little garden. ||The location is convenient, nestled in a picturesque quiet suburb of Kyoto away from the tourist throngs of gion and potoncho. What made this a truly special experience was the courteous and ever helpful couple that own it. ||A must...
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