Kyoto Ryokan Gion Sano — Hotel in Kyoto

This was my first trip to Japan and I was traveling alone, so I was a bit nervous. However, I’m extremely thankful that Gion Sano Ryokan was my first experience on the trip.

The rooms are in a traditional style/layout with tatami mats. They are clean, comfortable, and includes amenities like TV, AC, mini-refrigerators, kettles for tea, in-room safe, etc. The staff will clean your room daily when you are out exploring Kyoto. There will be fresh linen and treats left on your return.

The ryokan is located near many restaurants and shrines; 10 minute walk to the Gion Station and about a 15 minute drive / 35 minute walk to Kyoto Station. You’re in the center of the action and things are readily accessible!

What sold this ryokan for me is the owner and his staff! They are so kind, generous, and lively! I knew a little conversational Japanese and it helped a lot but even if you don’t - they have staff that do speak English. The owner is great and we became really good friends over the 6 nights I stayed here.

During the night, several guests usually meet up in the lobby with the owner and staff and do fun activities like karaoke and games. I had such a great time meeting new folks from all over the world visiting Japan.

P.S. - there are two dogs that belong to the ryokan and they are...

Look no further if you’re looking for a central ryokan experience in Kyoto. I’ve been to Kyoto many times and stayed at various accommodations, nothing beats the hospitality, service, location and value for your money at Gion Sano.

We booked a traditional Japanese style room with twin beds, and was surprised to find the room much larger than typically expected in Japan. The check-in process was also smooth as we were greeted warmly even though we got in super late. All the staff were extremely warm and friendly (including the two golden pups always happy to come for cuddles and pets). We could easily walk to many of the popular sights in Gion but the ryokan itself is tucked away on a very quiet street. On top of all this, they host an interactive maiko show twice a week, where you get to talk and play games with a real maiko in training, pictures and videos allowed! This alone would be worth the accommodation fee.

When we checked out, everyone came out to bid their goodbyes and we were sad to leave not just a beautiful city but the even more beautiful people at Gion Sano (and of course...

All the rave reviews are true: It felt like home away from home. We felt truly taken care of. The owners were so so so kind. The dogs were adorable. The futons were incredibly comfy. The room was clean and spacious and smelled like Tatami. We had the twin deluxe room which had a nice little view of the streets outside. Location was just close enough to Gion center to be convinient but quiet. The owners don't speak much English, but that's completely fair since I don't speak much Japanese. 😁 They were very patient with translation apps and went above and beyond to help us with whatever we needed. They helped us so kindly with our food needs. We rented bikes for two days and were able to park them overnight at the ryokan after calling ahead. What else... The yukata provided were crisp and clean. We wish we could have stayed for longer. I cannot say enough nice things about this ryokan. YES. Comfy yukata, comfy futons, comfy tatami, convenient location, lovely...