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Ishicho Hotel
Kyoto · Japan
Higashi-hairu,Takeya-cho,kawaramachi,Nakagyo-kuView location
8.4/10Excellent473 Reviews
Cleanliness8.6/10 8.6
Service8.4/10 8.4
Comfort8.2/10 8.2
Condition8.0/10 8.0
Location8.0/10 8.0
Neighborhood8.2/10 8.2
Amenities8.8/10 8.8
See all ratingsRoom prices, availability, meal plans and cancellation terms are confirmed for your selected dates.
About Ishicho Hotel
Nestled near Kyoto's scenic Kamogawa River, this hotel offers a delightful culinary experience with traditional kaiseki meals featuring fresh, local vegetables. After a day exploring Kyoto's treasures, unwind in the warm ambiance of your Japanese-style guest room. The lobby welcomes you with soothing aromas, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
Enjoy the convenience of in-room dining for both breakfast and dinner. All guest rooms are equipped with a private bath and toilet, along with amenities such as hand towels, bath towels, body soap, hand soap, a hairdryer, and a comfortable Japanese bathrobe.
Show less
A stay at Ishicho places you in the heart of Kyoto, within a 5-minute drive of Kyoto Imperial Palace and Pontocho Alley. This ryokan is 1 mi (1.6 km) from Nishiki Market and 1.4 mi (2.3 km) from Yasaka Shrine.
Make yourself at home in one of the 112 air-conditioned rooms featuring refrigerators. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected. Private bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers feature deep soaking bathtubs and complimentary toiletries. Conveniences include phones and safes, and housekeeping is provided daily.
Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Popular amenities
Free WiFi
Parking available
Dining services
Concierge
Laundry
Entertainment
Smoking areas
Business facilities
Banquet facilities
Accessible facilities
Check-in and check-out
Check-in from
3:00 PM
Check-in until
10:00 PM
Check-out until
10:00 AM
Hotel policies
No rollaway/extra beds available
No cribs (infant beds) available
Parking height restrictions apply
Unicode Support true
Professional property host/manager
Pets not allowed
Service animals are allowed
Service animals are exempt from fees/restrictions
Important information
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Property Alerts
You'll be asked to pay the following charges at the property. Fees may include applicable taxes:
- A city tax may be collected at the property. The city tax ranges from JPY 100–10,000 per person, per night based on the nightly room rate. Please note that further exemptions may apply. For more details, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
- A tax is imposed by the city: JPY 150.00 per person, per night. This tax does not apply to children under 13 years of age.
- A bathing tax, collected at the property, may be charged. The bathing tax applies to properties with hot springs and ranges from JPY 150-500 per person, per night based on local regulations. Please note that further exemptions may apply.
We have included all charges provided to us by the property.
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You need to know
- The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare requires all international visitors to submit their passport number and nationality when registering at any lodging facility (inns, hotels, motels, etc. ). Additionally, lodging proprietors are required to photocopy passports for all registering guests and keep the photocopy on file.
- Parking height restrictions apply.
- Please note that some properties do not permit guests with tattoos to use the onsite public bathing facilities.
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Special Instructions
This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in. Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property. For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation. Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools.
-
Instructions
- Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
- Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
- Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
- Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve access to the public bathing facility
- This property accepts credit cards and cash
- Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector
- Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
- Guests who wish to book breakfast are encouraged to contact the property 2 days before arrival to pre-book it.
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Optional fees
- Fee for local cuisine breakfast: approximately JPY 2200 per person
- Uncovered self parking fee: JPY 1000 per night
- Uncovered extended parking fee: JPY 1000 per night
- Futon bed fee: JPY 4000 per night
The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.
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Spoken Language
Japanese
English
Nearby attractions
Kawaramachi Street
0.1 km / 0.1 mi
Lake Biwa Canal
0.4 km / 0.2 mi
Kiyamachi Street
0.4 km / 0.2 mi
Kamo River
0.4 km / 0.2 mi
Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
0.5 km / 0.3 mi
Pontocho Alley
1 km / 0.6 mi
Teramachi Street
1 km / 0.6 mi
Hanamikoji Street
1.2 km / 0.7 mi
Gion Shirakawa Area
1.3 km / 0.8 mi
Kyoto Imperial Palace
1.4 km / 0.9 mi
Kyoto International Manga Museum
1.4 km / 0.9 mi
Shijo Street
1.4 km / 0.9 mi
Okazaki Park
1.4 km / 0.9 mi
Kyoto International Exhibition Hall
1.5 km / 0.9 mi
Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street
1.5 km / 0.9 mi
Hotel facilities & services
Services and fees can vary. Check the selected room details and hotel policies before booking.
- Total number of rooms: 48
- hotel
- Wheelchair-accessible
- Car parkExtra charge
- 24-hour reception
- Check-in hour
- Check-out hour
- Mobile phone coverage
- Wi-fiExtra charge
- Laundry serviceExtra charge
- Bicycle hire serviceExtra charge
- 24-hour securityExtra charge
Show 11 more facilities & services
- Air conditioning in public areas
- Smoke detector
- Hotel safeExtra charge
- Lift access
- ShopExtra charge
- Luggage roomExtra charge
- Towels and bed linenExtra charge
- Smoking areaExtra charge
- Conference room
- MassageExtra charge
- Non-smoking establishmentExtra charge
Upon availability
Room types
These are the hotel's room types, rather than live offers. Choose your travel dates to see available rooms, prices and booking conditions. Check availability
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Room JAPANESE ROOMRoom • JAPANESE ROOMROO.JE
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- JAPANESE ROOM
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
Check availabilityIshicho Hotel
Room JAPANESE ROOM
Room photos
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- JAPANESE ROOM
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Room code: ROO.JE
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
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Room INNERRoom • INNERROO.IN
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- INNER
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
Check availabilityIshicho Hotel
Room INNER
Room photos
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- INNER
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Room code: ROO.IN
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
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Room JAPANESE ROOM NON SMOKINGRoom • JAPANESE ROOM NON SMOKINGROO.JE-NM
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- JAPANESE ROOM NON SMOKING
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
Check availabilityIshicho Hotel
Room JAPANESE ROOM NON SMOKING
Room photos
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- JAPANESE ROOM NON SMOKING
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Room code: ROO.JE-NM
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
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Room SUPERIORRoom • SUPERIORROO.SU
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- SUPERIOR
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
Check availabilityIshicho Hotel
Room SUPERIOR
Room photos
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- SUPERIOR
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Room code: ROO.SU
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
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Room RUN OF HOUSERoom • RUN OF HOUSEROO.RO
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- RUN OF HOUSE
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
Check availabilityIshicho Hotel
Room RUN OF HOUSE
Room photos
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- RUN OF HOUSE
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Room code: ROO.RO
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
No room types match your search. Try a room name or feature such as a balcony.
Guest reviews
What other guests saying about Ishicho Hotel
100
reviews shown
Valerie
Loved the traditional Japanese ambience. Room was clean. Staff was friendly and helpful. Location was good; close to bus stop. Walking distance to shopping and restaurants. Onsen was great!
Alexandru
If you want to experience a traditional tatami room and ambiance it's the place to be . Close central area of Kyoto in a very relaxing area !
Violet
Staff was very accommodating. We loved our room. We didn't have time to experience the onsen
Timofey
Old hotel but great traditional experience with very nice stuff and convenient location. We liked the Japanese dinner
Nova
Staying at Ishicho was a great experience! The staff were incredibly friendly and the room and onsen were very nice! I would definitely recommend staying here.
Phil
Incredibly friendly and helpful staff, amazing breakfast and dinner, and a very unique hotel room experience. The onsen was the icing on the cake!
Jack
Central of Kyoto, very clean
Clara
Me and a friend stayed for two nights as we wanted to explore areas of the Kansai region. It was such a nice experience! We didn’t end up trying the public baths, so I can’t comment on that, but the room itself and the futons were great ^^
When I think walkable, it may be different to someone else’s walkable, but transport (bus) is okay to get around— it is pretty busy though so take at your own caution if you have a large suitcase. The area is great! We wish we had more time but from what we walked and visited, it was nice. There’s a gachapon place nearby and multiple drug stores and places to eat.
Overall, great experience! And for the price, definitely worth it.
When I think walkable, it may be different to someone else’s walkable, but transport (bus) is okay to get around— it is pretty busy though so take at your own caution if you have a large suitcase. The area is great! We wish we had more time but from what we walked and visited, it was nice. There’s a gachapon place nearby and multiple drug stores and places to eat.
Overall, great experience! And for the price, definitely worth it.
Dia
The property was very clean and in a good location. The room was just enough space for my sister and I.
Carlos Fernando
Theres onsen included in the facility to relax on. However, it is shared bath so expect to be comfortably naked around others. The only gripe is the shared laundry machine with the neighbouring building
J
Thank you Ishicho for making my stay in Kyoto so memorable. Loved our tatami room, the impressive and traditional breakfast buffet, and all staff were kind and helpful. Highlight for me was their bathhouse, such a relaxing experience.
Patrick
Large room in friendly ryokan.
Lovely hotel in good location very close to river, imperial palace and markets. Good access to subway. Room was clean and large. Toilet a bit musty in smell.
Leo
Nice area if u wanna relax but a bit far from most places
Anitza
I enjoyed my stay. This hotels maintains a local vibe and look which I appreciated for my first stay at Kyoto. The breakfast was amazing! Great options and delicious
The rooms have great space and traditional look.
The futons where comfortable enough to sleep well and I like how organize and label everything was.
There was a humidifier in room, a nice touch.
The staff were helpful to provide with bakery recommendations and maps.
The rooms have great space and traditional look.
The futons where comfortable enough to sleep well and I like how organize and label everything was.
There was a humidifier in room, a nice touch.
The staff were helpful to provide with bakery recommendations and maps.
Pier
Spacious room with friendly staff.
Misunderstanding with the parking as it is advertised as free on Expedia and instead we were asked for payment (that we refused to pay…)
Misunderstanding with the parking as it is advertised as free on Expedia and instead we were asked for payment (that we refused to pay…)
Kerstan L
The ryokan hotel is OUTSTANDING. The staff is SUPER NICE and so so SOOOOOOO helpful. We loved our room, it was really clean, the onsen area was really wonderful too. All outstanding.
Jake
This hotel was a nice traditional experience in Kyoto. Foreigner friendly, wonderful staff, fun experience.
Kristine
Perfection in Kyoto
Fantastic! Beautiful traditional rooms,lovely clean onsen, kimono to wear, Incredible very traditional Japanese breakfast. If you are a foreigner and seek an authentic Japanese place to go , this the place. The staff was wonderfully friendly and accommodating. I cannot rave enough about this place!!! Oh, and it was quiet, quiet quiet With a beautiful Zen garden off of our room.
Taylor
This was an awesome place to stay. I had never stayed in a traditional ryokan before, but the room, meals, and service here far surpassed my expectations. The room was very clean and I got the best night’s sleep of my life. The history of the hotel is also neat. I would recommend getting the breakfast and dinner at least once during your stay.
Kristoffer Tom
I like the atmosphere of the hotel and the staff were very helpful. I chose this place because of ryokan style. This is 2 thumbs up and 5 star rating for me. If i will be back to kyoto, i will book it again to this hotel. Cheers!
Shelby
If you are looking for a true experience of Japanese culture you pick this hotel right now. But do remember to make some research about Japanese lifestyle in a washitsu room before coming ;)
Staff all speak good English. Very helpful and polite.
Price stable throughout the year and the room size is just ideal compared with the 12-15sqm rooms offer by other hotels in the similar area at a similar price.
Close to subway and bus stations, traffic is good, some tourist sites like the Royal Garden and Nijo Cho are even within walking distance. Close to Sanjo and Gion too. Nonetheless very quite since it's not right next to the mainstreet. There is a FamilyMart 2min's walk away.
Room facility: appliances are new and are not cheap ones, furniture is older but in perfect condition.
Staff all speak good English. Very helpful and polite.
Price stable throughout the year and the room size is just ideal compared with the 12-15sqm rooms offer by other hotels in the similar area at a similar price.
Close to subway and bus stations, traffic is good, some tourist sites like the Royal Garden and Nijo Cho are even within walking distance. Close to Sanjo and Gion too. Nonetheless very quite since it's not right next to the mainstreet. There is a FamilyMart 2min's walk away.
Room facility: appliances are new and are not cheap ones, furniture is older but in perfect condition.
Joycelyn
Nice area.. room is comfortable and big for three people… the traditional breakfast and Buffett breakfast was great..Keiseki dinner was new experienced for us and we enjoyed it. Housekeeping come morning and evening to set up our room
Hotel has only total of 2 washers/dryers.. hard to get turn washing/drying your clothes. Hallways smells smoke.. not sure if they allow smoking in the room
Overall, great stay!
Hotel has only total of 2 washers/dryers.. hard to get turn washing/drying your clothes. Hallways smells smoke.. not sure if they allow smoking in the room
Overall, great stay!
Peter
Public bath!
Fionne
Thank hotel’s staff since they were very friendly and nice. However the facility is not too clean. Unpleasant smell was found in elevator and hotel toilet room, and toilet is not fully functional.
Vanna
Hotel staff was very accommodating in storing our luggage before our checkout time.
Aimee
We had an excellent stay at Ishicho. Our suite had one large room for sleeping and hanging out, a narrow balcony, a toilet room, and a room with a tub and shower. It was very quiet.
I had read a few reviews before our stay and had been a little nervous about a few things. I wanted to address some of those things for other people who are considering staying.
First, someone had left the review that the staff was not friendly and did not speak English. The staff was extremely kind and helpful, very attentive, and everyone spoke enough English to get things done. The staff was great!
Another review said that there was a weird smell in the bathtub. When we first arrived, there was a strange smell in the room with the bath, but we think it is a cleaning product as we smelled it at both the apartment we rented and the hotel we stayed at in Tokyo. It dissipated the first day and the bathtub and shower were very very clean.
Some reviews say that it is a bit run down - the facility feels older, but it doesn’t feel like a bad thing; everything is very clean and very well-tended.
The futons are a bit thin, which might be uncomfortable if you are not used to sleeping in the floor. The pillows are the usual for Japan - small and flat. I would say that sleeping in Japan in general is less comfortable than sleeping in a hotel elsewhere… so no matter where you stay, you can expect to want a better pillow and a softer bed. ;)
The ryokan breakfast is very nice!
I had read a few reviews before our stay and had been a little nervous about a few things. I wanted to address some of those things for other people who are considering staying.
First, someone had left the review that the staff was not friendly and did not speak English. The staff was extremely kind and helpful, very attentive, and everyone spoke enough English to get things done. The staff was great!
Another review said that there was a weird smell in the bathtub. When we first arrived, there was a strange smell in the room with the bath, but we think it is a cleaning product as we smelled it at both the apartment we rented and the hotel we stayed at in Tokyo. It dissipated the first day and the bathtub and shower were very very clean.
Some reviews say that it is a bit run down - the facility feels older, but it doesn’t feel like a bad thing; everything is very clean and very well-tended.
The futons are a bit thin, which might be uncomfortable if you are not used to sleeping in the floor. The pillows are the usual for Japan - small and flat. I would say that sleeping in Japan in general is less comfortable than sleeping in a hotel elsewhere… so no matter where you stay, you can expect to want a better pillow and a softer bed. ;)
The ryokan breakfast is very nice!
Jean-Philippe
The Japanese style room was amazing, a must do.
Francisco
Awesome ryokan! Onsen was very clean and relaxing. Highly recommend the traditional breakfast. Would definitely stay again!
Zoha
Very clean, great service.
Austin
This place did the job, but overall the property and amenities felt quite old and limited. It’s more of a hotel than a standard ryokan, and all in all just felt a little substandard compared to similarly priced Kyoto hotels
Jenna
Fantastic staff and unique experience
Verified traveler
Kyoto
It was a great experience of a traditional Japanese hotel.
Hany
Convenient but basic
Convenient location -ryokan is a bit rundown. Breakfasts are good, but the rooms are average, staff is ok but not stellar. Rooms and bathrooms are very basic.
Verified traveler
It’s in a nice area close to good food, the staff is great and the room is exactly what we were looking for.
Christine
Great Staff
The staff were really nice and the location was ideal.
Verified traveler
Friendly staff, spacious room.
We didn't know the hotel has 2 different towers (just 1 min walk away) and we turned up at the wrong one. Staff were friendly to show us to the right tower, even helped with our suitcase. Place is dated but we like that. The breakfast is awesome! The location is a 15 min walk from Sanjo-dori and it's easier to hop on buses with bus stops located within 3 min walk from the hotel....6 min walk with a 4-year-old.
Verified traveler
Very nice experience staying there. Everyone was so friendly. The location is great too.
Thought the facility is a little bit old. But we are OK with that.
Thought the facility is a little bit old. But we are OK with that.
Oscar
The room and breakfast is excellent. The breakfast buffet is worth the money. The location is a little bit out of the City center and the Main Train Station and the Subway, you can get the bus with one day pass around the city.
Verified traveler
Japanese Experience
We enjoyed Ishicho. It was a true Japanese experience. We especially enjoyed the traditional breakfast! Very special!
Verified traveler
Friendly staff, beautiful ryokan. Thank you for having us!
Verified traveler
Rooms were very spacious and enjoyed the Japanese style atmosphere. Breakfast was delicious!
peike
店里的服务人员态度挺好的，装修也是日式的，适合喜欢日本古典文化的旅客。
Staffs are caring and nice, and the decoration is very Japanese style, which is totoally for the visitors who love Japanese classical culture.
但是清洁的确是这个酒店的短板，我的朋友在洗手池塞子下找到了很多头发，地板上的头发没有清理干净。
But the cleanliness is the shortcome. My roommate found many hairs beneath the plug of the washbasin. Hairs on the floor were not cleaned.
Staffs are caring and nice, and the decoration is very Japanese style, which is totoally for the visitors who love Japanese classical culture.
但是清洁的确是这个酒店的短板，我的朋友在洗手池塞子下找到了很多头发，地板上的头发没有清理干净。
But the cleanliness is the shortcome. My roommate found many hairs beneath the plug of the washbasin. Hairs on the floor were not cleaned.
Merve
Great amenities in a charming traditional package
A great balance of the traditional country feel, but with the needed amenities to feel comfortable and supported.
Catherine
Big space
A good 9 minutes walk from the subway to the hotel( have to get on subway from Kyoto Main Station first). Place look raggard on the outside, but the rooms was spacious enough . Bus stops are a few minutes walk from hotel,and most of the sightseeing places are indicated on the buses . Amazingly, Gion is just ten mins away, and you can easily get back to the hotel using Google maps.
Connie Chui Yie
Smitten by the welcome sign at entrance. Hotel seems old but room was clean, spacious and comfortable. Breakfast was sumptuous too.
However , very disappointed by the Onsen (public bath in the hotel ) it was closed at 9 am when we were awake n didn't get a chance to use as we checked in late ( around 10 pm) and my request for late check out was not even considered.
After all, it was in my consideration when I chose this Ryokan. When asked why the Onsen was closed, we were told that it was for cleaning and in preparation for use for a group of students !!
However , very disappointed by the Onsen (public bath in the hotel ) it was closed at 9 am when we were awake n didn't get a chance to use as we checked in late ( around 10 pm) and my request for late check out was not even considered.
After all, it was in my consideration when I chose this Ryokan. When asked why the Onsen was closed, we were told that it was for cleaning and in preparation for use for a group of students !!
Verified traveler
Very good and quiet location.
This ryokan was a good place to base for our five nights in Kyoto. It is a block from the entry to the river which is the best route to walk to Gion. It is also close to Imperial Palace and not far from good shopping.
The hotel is old, so rooms not fresh looking. Staff at front desk very nice and helpful. The room cleaning staff though seemed a bit rude when we set out the futons ourselves to take an afternoon nap as we were jetlagged. After we did this, the next day they hid the futons. And then when we found the futons and took a nap again, they moved the table to the center of the room to block us from pulling out the futon again. Of course we still moved the table to be able to rest after a full morning of touring. We had come from Canada and were not onky adjusting go 13 hourstime difference but also to the 25C heat!
The hotel is old, so rooms not fresh looking. Staff at front desk very nice and helpful. The room cleaning staff though seemed a bit rude when we set out the futons ourselves to take an afternoon nap as we were jetlagged. After we did this, the next day they hid the futons. And then when we found the futons and took a nap again, they moved the table to the center of the room to block us from pulling out the futon again. Of course we still moved the table to be able to rest after a full morning of touring. We had come from Canada and were not onky adjusting go 13 hourstime difference but also to the 25C heat!
Trevor
Traditional
A traditional Ryokan, with friendly staff, in the northern part of Kyoto, you can (long) walk to many of the northern sights.
The onsen facility is quite basic.
Taxi from station cost ¥1600.
The are many restaurants and 7-11 store within close walking distance.
The onsen facility is quite basic.
Taxi from station cost ¥1600.
The are many restaurants and 7-11 store within close walking distance.
John
It is oversold
Overall the place is just dingy and very tired. It sells itself as authentic but the bathroom was in need of a major overhaul. Just too expensive. Don't stay!
Jackie
the hotel is actually in the middle of nowhere
There are no restaurants just dingy joints in the area. It says Central Kyoto, so we expected more liveliness. The liveliness came from avoiding bicycles riding on the sidewalk without lights. Almost got hit by one. Horrible evening when we had high expectations of \"kyoto happening\". The hotel first denied that we had booking with them. THe owner or some jerk stopped us on the street and claimed we had no room booked. Apparently they were mostly booked by a Chinese group and we were \"round eyes\" from America. Then he allowed us into the lobby where the clerk found our reservations. Would recommend the place only to my enemies, not friends.
George
The best hotel for our Japan Trip
The stay gave us a great experience of Japanese living style. We enjoy very much the cleanness and a high standard of service by the hotel.
Sh
Old but comfortable hotel
Relatively close to places you want to go. Use 1 day bus pass.
Mary fr SF
Reasonable ryokan experience
Great ryokan experience! Room and facility is clean except bathroom and lobby furniture needs updating. We were assigned one of the rooms on the 4th floor. Supposed to be a non smoking room/floor but the toilet smells like cigarettes coming from the vent! Smoke smell was awful caused us to be so nauseated after using the toilet. Reported it to the front desk during check out but I don't know if they'll do anything about it.
J&K
Traditional style with good service
Enjoyable
Lida
A nice hotel but language skills don't exist
The stay was nice overall. Japanese-style rooms, japanese-style breakfast (with black tea and coffee for Western tourist), hot baths... quite a pleasant experience.
The only exception was the receptionists. Quite cold and seem unfriendly - but I guess it all stems from their inability to speak English.
All in all 6 out of 10!
The only exception was the receptionists. Quite cold and seem unfriendly - but I guess it all stems from their inability to speak English.
All in all 6 out of 10!
M
Kyoto
The hotel was located in a convenient part of Kyoto. It was easy to access transportation to the various temples and sites from the hotel. Also the public bath was great!!
Justin
Nice place to stay, close to transport
Bit pricey compared to other hotels we stayed in on our trip compared to what you got for your money, was noisey until midnight with a party on the floor above, staff were very friendly and obliging
Verified traveler
A hidden gem.
Located on a quiet side street, it is only a short walk away to subway stations. Once you get to the subway, it is not too hard to get around. Do walk along the river, especially now during cherry blossom season. The breakfast brunch was very good - much selection and tasty food. Our room was clean and spacious (it could easily fit 5 people) with a sink and toilet, television and small refrigerator. It was very comfortable, with the main room having tatami mats. Sleeping on futons on the floor was a different, but good experience.
Rosemary
Terrific \"down home\" style ryokan. Not fancy or up-to-date, but clean, tidy, well-kept traditional tatami mat rooms and futons. Staff is helpful and thoughtful. Best of all...the baths!
William
Great spot to stay!
Great central location base to tour from. Bus service is right around the corner.
Verified traveler
Nice Ryokan for the price
We decided to experience staying in a Ryokan during our stay in Kyoto - 4 nights total. It was a great experience! The hotel staff sets up the bedding daily. The futons were more comfortable than I expected, being hesitant to sleep on one for that many nights. But it just felt like a slumber party with my cousins! Our room was very spacious for our party of 3. We had a private bathroom. We did try the public bath once just to try. It wasn't too bad. It had all the bathing supplies you needed, but you can bring your own shampoo/soap if you like (just bring your towel/robe from your room). It's open until midnight so we bathed at 11pm when no one was around. We didn't try the breakfast or dinner available for purchase, but it seemed like it would have been nice. We saw them set it up daily in the big dining hall & the food smelled good upon passing...
It was a little difficult trying to find the place at first. The directions just say a short walk from either the subway line or bus stop... But doesn't go further into which streets to turn into. We were lucky to find someone on the street with a phone. Once we got closer to the place, we were greeted immediately with staff waiting for us outside the entrance...
The hotel is near city hall and once we mastered the walking directions and public transportation, it was pretty easy to get around.
This was a nice ryokan, decently priced and I recommend staying at this place if you want to experience staying in a ryokan.
It was a little difficult trying to find the place at first. The directions just say a short walk from either the subway line or bus stop... But doesn't go further into which streets to turn into. We were lucky to find someone on the street with a phone. Once we got closer to the place, we were greeted immediately with staff waiting for us outside the entrance...
The hotel is near city hall and once we mastered the walking directions and public transportation, it was pretty easy to get around.
This was a nice ryokan, decently priced and I recommend staying at this place if you want to experience staying in a ryokan.
Sina
Nice Ryokan with premium location
I stayed at this Ryokan for three days. Here's my comments:
1. Room: very nice Japanese style room with great view of the river in the back. Room was very clean and nice but it smelled like a smoker's room although it was not. Hotel also confirmed that my room is not a smokers room but I guess this had to to with central ventilation.
2. Location: great location 10 min walk from City Hall train which could connect to to anywhere in Kyoto. 10-15 min walk from a local big bazar (Teramachi/Shinkyogoky), and 20-25 min walk from Pontocho and Kawaramachi nightlife/bars and restaurants. 5 min walk from Ritz Carlton hotel so definately location is good.
3. Hotel Service: overall good but staff DO NOT speak English. I mean seriously they don't. This would not be an issue unless you have a specific request or need to communicate something, good luck with that. One tip: our check in was at 3, they did not let us use our room before that. So, make sure to plan for the on time check in.
4. Food and restaurant: did not use it since the combination they offered did not appeal to me
Overall, I liked this Ryokan a lot. The only thing that bothered me was the reek of smoke everywhere even in my non-smoking room. People smoke like chimney in Japan!!
1. Room: very nice Japanese style room with great view of the river in the back. Room was very clean and nice but it smelled like a smoker's room although it was not. Hotel also confirmed that my room is not a smokers room but I guess this had to to with central ventilation.
2. Location: great location 10 min walk from City Hall train which could connect to to anywhere in Kyoto. 10-15 min walk from a local big bazar (Teramachi/Shinkyogoky), and 20-25 min walk from Pontocho and Kawaramachi nightlife/bars and restaurants. 5 min walk from Ritz Carlton hotel so definately location is good.
3. Hotel Service: overall good but staff DO NOT speak English. I mean seriously they don't. This would not be an issue unless you have a specific request or need to communicate something, good luck with that. One tip: our check in was at 3, they did not let us use our room before that. So, make sure to plan for the on time check in.
4. Food and restaurant: did not use it since the combination they offered did not appeal to me
Overall, I liked this Ryokan a lot. The only thing that bothered me was the reek of smoke everywhere even in my non-smoking room. People smoke like chimney in Japan!!
Sa
Nasty service with bad attitude.
We only stayed in this hotel for one night on our 15-day trip to Japan. All the staffs were having some terrible attitudes which we didn't see everywhere elae in the entire trip.
Yung Hua
The staffs are very rude, never come back!
Very bad hotel overall
Dan
Good ryokan in Kyoto
While a bit dated, my group of four enjoyed this ryokan. The futons were comfortable and the room was very spacious and clean. Not many dining options next to the hotel, but plenty of choices just a 10 minute walk south. Convenient access to the Keihan railway nearby, and by bus.
Kajsa
Good location but uncomfortable
Old and impersonal, good location, nice staff and ok breakfast but its an hotel without charm and no extras. Very uncomfortable beds.
Verified traveler
It was a enjoyable stay.
Aggie
Decent hotel, but not worth the money
Hotel is a traditional Japanese ryokan. However, the quality is that of a Japanese school trip. It is decent, but dated. Stayed over oshugatsu (New Year season) so pricing was higher than usual. Typical ryokan room with tatami, futon, small TV, and tea setup. Rooms can be noisy due to squeaky doors (which can easily be resolved by mgmt, but haven't been addressed.) Walls are thin, so expect to hear some noise from next door rooms. Could smell smoke from nearby rooms/smoking area. Onsen is artificial. It's a hot bath, but not natural water. Kyoto is wonderful and for people wanting a traditional experience on a budget, this is sufficient. However, if you truly understand Japanese tradition, you'll be disappointed. Location is decent. Not a lot very close (<5 min walking) to the hotel, but if you're willing to walk 15 minutes, you be be near many \"hole in the wall\" restaurants and shopping area.
Also, the price you pay is the price you pay. You will not be nickel and dimed here.
Also, the price you pay is the price you pay. You will not be nickel and dimed here.
Verified traveler
Clean room
Japanese style, like it very much, will come again in future.
Verified traveler
Like it very much.
The hotel is at good location, close to the downtown and interesting area you would like to see.
Some hotel staff are good at English but some not....Room is big enough, clean and tidy.
Will come to here again next time.
Some hotel staff are good at English but some not....Room is big enough, clean and tidy.
Will come to here again next time.
Chee Seng
a great discovery.
our family of 5 took 2 rooms for a one night stay. The hotel is very clean, well kept with english speaking front desk staff who are helpful and reliable. Location is great, only steps away from the pretty river that runs thru the city, and a charming stream, which if you walk along will bring u to the heart of the city, san jo and shi jo, in like 10 to 15 minutes. highly recommended.
Joanna
The ryokan experience
I recommend this ryokan. It's a great place to stay if you're looking for a traditional Japanese setting. The flooring is tatami, so you are not allowed to walk on it with shoes. The toilet is separate from the tub/shower, they are on opposite sides of the room. The ryokan is quiet and comfortable. They allow you to leave your luggage there if you arrive before check-in. It's located about 12 minutes walking from the local train station and 20 minutes from the station with JR lines. Staff is friendly and speak some English.
Alan
Directions to reach the hotel location were not clear enough. Just saying \"walk for 5 minutes from the station\" did not tell me in which direction or give any landmarks to look for, and where to turn left/right etc. The futon was not so comfortable (for me) on the tatami, but with the use of a couple of extra blankets underneath, it was fine. The other members of my party had no problem with their bedding. Otherwise, staff were all very attentive and helpful.
Kai
Not worth the time and money
This is the first time we stay in a Japanese style hotel. This hotel breakfast tasted really horrible and the last entering time for breakfast is 8:30 am!!! And when you missed the breakfast the hotel staff will call you twice to wake you up anyway. The hotel will not clean your room if you leave your room after 1 pm, except folding the futons ( Japanese bed) they didn't even give us fresh towels and take out the trash!!! The younger female staff is the only one that has been helpful, others were rude. When you try to ask the gentalman in the front desk to make a reservation for you, he will tell you do it your self and the restaurant that we want to go to is a tradition Kyoto restaurant that require all booking through the hotel if you don't speak japanese! Over all, the bed is really uncomfortable, the hotel is close to the bus stops to major sightseeing places so you have rented a wifi machine at the airport, you can just google which bus to take very easily and just follow google map. In my opinion I think is more worth it to stay in Osaka and take a 17 min bullet train to Kyoto to visit, the bullet train btw Osaka and Kyoto for non-reserved seats are only 1750 yen per person. Or if you really wanted to try what a Japanese hotel is like, I will say two night stays is the maximum as the pillow is really low after two days you neck will start to get hurt.....
tereza
Traditional style hotel made to feel welcome
Good experience beds on floor surprisingly comfy, staff helpful, provided map and directions for where we wanted to go. Lovely bakery close
Verified traveler
Traditional style, close to good dinning
Traditional tatami room, if you're ok sleeping in the futons on the floor. We had fun as a 5 person family, sharing one room. Pretty old facility, minimal english. Small breakfast. I would recommend just don't have high expectations.
Ya-Fang
A great traditional Japanese hotel!!
This is a great hotel, clean and comfortable. I love the smell of tatami. >////< There is a wonderful hot spring which make you relax. Pretty nice!!
Lani
Loved the onsen!!
Dennis
Nice hotel in Kyoto
We booked a japanese style room. Overall conditional is good (Clean and comfortable). Hotel location is also close to POI. Just few minutes walk to bus and train station. We are very satisfied with the hotel.
Verified traveler
Amazing experience!
it like you're staying with family. You get an amazing Japanese cultural experience with an amazing staff. Some staff speak English, so don't speak a lot, but they create a relaxed inclusive environment.
Verified traveler
Nice clean hotel
We stayed for one day we're out most of the time. Hotel was nice and near places to see.
James G
Graet little japanese hotel in Kyoto.
Great hotel, very reasonable and a VERY Japanese experience with the in-house traditional bathes in the basement level in a super convenient location.
River walk with shops, cafes and restaurants are just blocks away.
Very good and reasonable western breakfast for about $5 across the street in the associated hotel ground level. Really enjoyed our stay!
River walk with shops, cafes and restaurants are just blocks away.
Very good and reasonable western breakfast for about $5 across the street in the associated hotel ground level. Really enjoyed our stay!
Simon
traditional Japanese Hotel, huge rooms
Good experience if you want to try traditional Japanese hotel (sleeping on futons on floor). Location a bit out of the way, but spa area quite nice.
Chen
Hotel staff not too friendly.
Verified traveler
Walking distance ti Kyoto Central
Very good service!! We were greeted by a young friendly man. They are very accomodating and when we left the hotel and asked for a taxi the hotel crew didnt leave until our taxi left the front door. Japanese hospitaly at its best!!!!
lynn
Nice hotel and great location
Very happy with this hotel. Great services and walking distance to public bus transportation. Staffs are very nice and breakfast is great.
Verified traveler
It's a resignal ryokan, so nothing fancy, but fills the bill of staying at a Japanese style accommodation.
Christopher
Wonderful Place
Excellent value hotel. Very good location for walks amongst the temples set on the wooded slopes of eastern Kyoto… The Philosophers Walk etc. If you want a western breakfast make sure you ask for it as you check in. We would eat trad Japanese any evening, or lunch, but in the morning miso and pickles doesn't do it for us. Staff very friendly. Most speak just enough English to help with anything you need. The cab company they use will come to the hotel in 5 mins and are very cheap. We used them to get over to the Golden Temple etc in the western districts. Also to get to and from the station. Otherwise Gion and the eastern temples etc are all walkable. Eat out well and cheaply at the tiny Pork Cutlet restaurant on the main street 5 minutes walk away from hotel. 100 yr old waiter is very friendly, and the food simple, tasty and inexpensive. Great low-brow Japanese TV on as you eat. Our young kids loved it too. No other foreigners, a proper working man or working woman's joint.
world traveler
So disappointing especially for this price.
I have stayed in Ryokan before and was looking forward to this experience.
Sadly this couldn't be further away from this actual experience.
Musty smelling, dirty, falling apart and staff that doesn't even speak basic English.
Sadly this ended up being the worst part of my multi hotel stay in Japan.
Sadly this couldn't be further away from this actual experience.
Musty smelling, dirty, falling apart and staff that doesn't even speak basic English.
Sadly this ended up being the worst part of my multi hotel stay in Japan.
Verified traveler
Excellent hotel
Very nice hotel. Convenient location. Room is clean and spacious.
Selina
Stay in Kyoto
Great hotel for our family and to experience the Japanese culture. Great staff from the front desk to the food servers!
Larissa
Comfortable traditional Japanese inn
Staying in this traditional ryokan in Kyoto was a highlight of our trip. The room was clean and the staff, although not all proficient English speakers, were as helpful as possible. The ryokan is located about a 5-7 min walk from the closest subway and about a 15-20 min walk from a main shopping area. Though we did not eat at any of the nearby restaurants, they all seemed quaint and inviting. There is a convenience store and several vending machines at the corner. Our favorite part of our hotel stay was the breakfast! I traveled with my sister and two nephews, and if you are up for trying a Japanese style breakfast (not Western), this alone, was worth our stay. Beautifully presented and very filling, it was a great experience for my family.
John
Traditional Japanese Ryokan hotel in Kyoto
We were surprised to see the type of the hotel when we arrived as we did not realise that it would be a traditional Japanese Ryokan hotel. However we enjoyed our stay in the hotel which was a different experience for us.
The hotel provided us with a map of Kyoto, a local bus map and a bus map of the town. All were very useful.
The temples, castle and their gardens were all quite stunning as the trees were all in their autumn colours.
Everyone that we met in Kyoto was very helpful with directions and advice.
The hotel provided us with a map of Kyoto, a local bus map and a bus map of the town. All were very useful.
The temples, castle and their gardens were all quite stunning as the trees were all in their autumn colours.
Everyone that we met in Kyoto was very helpful with directions and advice.
Lorna
Traditional Japanese Experience
We chose this hotel because we wanted a unique experience. We loved staying here! The traditional room was everything that we expected. During the day, the room is set up for tea. In the evening, futons with fluffy duvets are set out. Thanks to another guest review, we found the laundry room on the 4th floor. The beer vending machine in the lobby made our Canadian hearts flutter. The area is quiet but bust shopping area is very close. The hotel is very clean. Highly recommend this to travellers who are looking for an interesting experience - this is not for you if you need 5 star service and amenities.
Paul
Sleeping on the floor as a family
We wanted a ryokan experience in Kyoto itself, but our kids did not fully appreciate that they would be sleeping on thin mats on the hard floor. All of us wished for beds after a two nights. The staff were friendly enough, but had very limited English. The location was a walk to anything. We thought we were getting a room with a view of the garden but our view was a brick wall. It was not a bad experience, just not great. We are not confident that we would stay there again.
sansei
Modern Ryokan
I've stayed at many ryokan in Japan, and this's one falls on the nice side of the spectrum. The baths, rooms, and hallways were always clean, and he staff was responsive. All hotel staff spoke English, so it made the stay for my family smooth. The neighborhood isn't particularly exciting, but it's on major bus and subway routes, so no complaints there. Overall a nice stay.
Verified traveler
Great spot
Great traditional Japanese style rooms. Walking distance to restaurants, bus stops etc. Perfect location, quiet back street whilst close to the essentials. On site bike hire available.
Emilie
Mountain escape
This was a great place to stay after the crowds in Tokyo. It was easy to get to by train and had a small town feel, but was still convenient and accessible. The hotel staff were so helpful and had great suggestions, and their English was some of the best we encountered in Japan. The location was peaceful. We did a great hike nearby, spent a lot of time in the onsen, and wandered about town enjoying the multiple temples.
Verified traveler
My stay was comfortable, and I enjoyed the traditional Ryokan room. Staff has some limitations on English communication. I had asked for additional 1 hr for check out. Person on phone at that time said it was OK. However cleaning staff came at original check out time. When I asked lobby personnel, they said no late checkout possible, and if I wanted additional 1 hr, then it will be additional $20 charge.
Lisa
Nice hotel close to town
Large, spacious light and airy traditional tatami room, with balcony. Clean and comfortable. Access to roof top with beautiful views. Centrally located. 10min taxi ride to train station. Travelled with a 7 year old, staff helpful.
Location & surroundings
Ishicho Hotel
Higashi-hairu,Takeya-cho,kawaramachi,Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
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Ishicho Hotel
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