BB
Bed & Breakfast
BED AND BREAKFAST
Breakfast is included with your stay.
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9.0/10Excellent556 Reviews
Cleanliness9.2/10 9.2
Service9.4/10 9.4
Comfort8.8/10 8.8
Condition8.8/10 8.8
Location9.2/10 9.2
Neighborhood9.4/10 9.4
Amenities9.6/10 9.6
See all ratingsRoom prices, availability, meal plans and cancellation terms are confirmed for your selected dates.
About Watazen Ryokan
Watazen Ryokan Hotel is conveniently located in the popular Central Kyoto area. The hotel offers a wide range of amenities and perks to ensure you have a great time. Take advantage of the hotel's free Wi-Fi in all rooms, daily housekeeping, fax machine, laundromat, photocopying.
Designed for comfort, selected guestrooms offer television LCD/plasma screen, internet access – wireless, internet access – wireless (complimentary), non smoking rooms, air conditioning to ensure a restful night. The hotel offers various recreational opportunities.
Watazen Ryokan Hotel is an excellent choice from which to explore Kyoto or to simply relax and rejuvenate.
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With a stay at Kyoto Watazen Ryokan, you'll be centrally located in Kyoto, steps from Nishiki Market and 4 minutes by foot from Shijo Street. This ryokan is 0.4 mi (0.6 km) from Kawaramachi Street and 0.5 mi (0.8 km) from Pontocho Alley.
Make yourself at home in one of the 24 guestrooms featuring refrigerators. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected. Private bathrooms with bathtubs or showers feature complimentary toiletries and bidets. Conveniences include safes and desks, and housekeeping is provided daily.
Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, multilingual staff, and luggage storage.
Popular amenities
Free WiFi
Dining services
Concierge
Laundry
Entertainment
Non-smoking
Accessible facilities
Check-in and check-out
Check-in from
4:00 PM
Check-in until
midnight
Check-out until
10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age
20
Hotel policies
No rollaway/extra beds available
No cribs (infant beds) available
Unicode Support true
Professional property host/manager
Sakura Quality
Pets not allowed
Cleaning and safety
Essential Travel
Essential workers only - NO
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.
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.
- 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.
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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
- This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
- Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and window guards
- Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
- Japanese futons are provided based on the number of adults in the reservation.
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Minimal age
20
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Optional fees
- Fee for local cuisine breakfast: approximately JPY 1650 for adults and JPY 1650 for children
- Nearby parking fee: JPY 2500 per day (164 ft away)
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
Nishiki Market
0.2 km / 0.1 mi
Shijo Street
0.3 km / 0.2 mi
Teramachi Street
0.4 km / 0.2 mi
Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street
0.5 km / 0.3 mi
Kawaramachi Street
0.6 km / 0.4 mi
Kiyamachi Street
0.8 km / 0.5 mi
Pontocho Alley
0.8 km / 0.5 mi
Kyoto International Manga Museum
1 km / 0.6 mi
Minamiza Theater
1.1 km / 0.7 mi
Kamo River
1.1 km / 0.7 mi
Lake Biwa Canal
1.1 km / 0.7 mi
Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
1.2 km / 0.7 mi
Gion Shirakawa Area
1.2 km / 0.8 mi
Sanjo Street
1.3 km / 0.8 mi
Kenninji Temple
1.3 km / 0.8 mi
Hotel facilities & services
Services and fees can vary. Check the selected room details and hotel policies before booking.
- Total number of rooms: 24
- hotel
- Wheelchair-accessible
- Car park
- 24-hour reception
- Check-in hour
- Check-out hour
- Wi-fiExtra charge
- Room serviceExtra charge
- Laundry serviceExtra charge
- LaunderetteExtra charge
- Bicycle hire serviceExtra charge
Show 13 more facilities & services
- Multilingual staff
- Bellboy serviceExtra charge
- Hotel safeExtra charge
- Lift accessExtra charge
- ShopExtra charge
- Concierge
- Luggage roomExtra charge
- Towels and bed linenExtra charge
- Smoking areaExtra charge
- TV lounge
- Hot tubExtra charge
- Non-smoking establishmentExtra charge
- Minimum check-in age: 20
Meal plans
Meal plan types
Meal options depend on the room and rate you choose. Search your dates to see which meal plans are included.
HB
Half Board
Usually includes breakfast and one additional meal.
RO
Room Only
Accommodation only. Meals are usually not included.
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 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 availabilityWatazen Ryokan
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 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 availabilityWatazen Ryokan
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 NON SMOKINGRoom • NON SMOKINGROO.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
- 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 availabilityWatazen Ryokan
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
- NON SMOKING
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Room code: ROO.NM
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
-
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 availabilityWatazen Ryokan
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.
No room types match your search. Try a room name or feature such as a balcony.
Guest reviews
What other guests saying about Watazen Ryokan
100
reviews shown
Don
Wonderful experience staying here for a week. Exceeded my expectations.
Ashley
We absolutely loved this place
From the moment we arrived the staff were so friendly..helping us to book our shinkansen ticket online while we waited for check in. We had a welcome ceremony on arrival and daily the would make our beds or put them away. We also got to experience a traditional japanese breakfast which was so amazing and probably my biggest highlight.
From the moment we arrived the staff were so friendly..helping us to book our shinkansen ticket online while we waited for check in. We had a welcome ceremony on arrival and daily the would make our beds or put them away. We also got to experience a traditional japanese breakfast which was so amazing and probably my biggest highlight.
Jeff
Friendliest staff. Genuinely felt they wanted us to have a great experience.
Traditional Japanese breakfast was a unique must do experience.
Traditional Japanese breakfast was a unique must do experience.
Jah
Staffs were very nice. Luggage storage was very convenient. Public bath was clean and refreshing. Recommended Ryokan for proximity to Nishiki market and Kyoto city center.
Melissa
It was excelent
Ali
Great location and Ryuken.
JOSE M
The market is a 3-minute walk, plenty of good dining options and souvenirs. We loved the Ryokan experience, this was a huge room compared to our Tokyo's hotel room. The Japanese tea experience in room, and then the Japanese breakfast were outstanding. Great experience.
Jesse
The room was great and had a very authentic ryokan feel. The onsen downstairs was also nice and tattoo friendly! The staff were all friendly and helpful. Great place to stay in Kyoto.
Miguel
Beautiful traditional ryokan stay.
Louise
It felt very old fashioned (in a good way), the service was amazing, but it
Francesca
Too small no place to put anything
Staff very friendly
Facility outdated
Staff very friendly
Facility outdated
Hilary
This is a charming historic ryokan. We loved the traditional breakfast we had each morning and the kaiseki dinner on our last night. The onsen is also terrific. The location truly can’t be beat. We were easily able to walk to almost all of the places we wanted to visit. There are great bakeries, coffee shops and cafes just steps away. And finally the staff here is the best! They went above and beyond to welcome us and share a bit of Japanese culture with us. Highly recommend.
Alice
It was fantastic to experience a more traditional Japanese style accommodation. The futon beds were really comfortable. Trying the Japanese breakfast was well worth it and the fried tofu in miso was delicious.
It is great to find accommodation who goes above and beyond to be sustainable. The staff are very helpful and friendly.
It is great to find accommodation who goes above and beyond to be sustainable. The staff are very helpful and friendly.
mary
Amazing location and the traditional Japanese ryokan experience every traveler should have! Get the breakfast, it was delicious. Excellent service.
Sezin
We felt very welcomed.
Amazing hospitality. Room service at its best and great treats!
Hotel is very clean.
Hotel bath is spotless and relaxing.
Food is very tasty.
Amazing hospitality. Room service at its best and great treats!
Hotel is very clean.
Hotel bath is spotless and relaxing.
Food is very tasty.
chang
It was the first time I stayed in a Ryokan. The etiquette and professionalism of the staff was above expectations. The Kaiseki dinner was good as any fine-dining experience I've had. The explanation of ingredient and preparation of each course was total bliss. Traditional Kyoto meals which focuses on the ingredients more than strong savoriness was perfect for my palette and soul.
And I thank the elegant gentleman who greeted us and the young lady who explained the ryokan for being so gentle and professional.
This ryokan stay made my Kyoto stay worthwhile.
And I thank the elegant gentleman who greeted us and the young lady who explained the ryokan for being so gentle and professional.
This ryokan stay made my Kyoto stay worthwhile.
Phoebe
The staff are amazing and make the futon bed for you! Traditional Japanese breakfast was memorable. Tea ceremony was a nice touch upon arrival!
Joseph
This is a beautiful property with great amenities. we loved this traditional Japanese ryokan and the breakfast served was very good. The area was also very convenient to shopping, restaurants and scenic places.
Thang
Best place to stay. Breakfast was amazing! I loved the friendly staff.
Thomas
Our second stay. Wonderful ryokan. Excellent service
John
This was a wonderful, authentic stay! The staff was incredible as was the traditional Japanese breakfast each morning. We felt like we experienced a true ryokan experience and we are so glad we chose this route. Highly recommend the public bath for a hot soak too!
Andrew
Excellent location near Nishiki market. Cost efficient for a group of 5, 18 years old boys. Sleeping arrangement was fun and the onsen was clean and enjoyable. While we were out, the staff lay out the futons and they hung dry our wet clothes. Thank you for the hospitality!
Ross
Charming stay in a great location
We loved our stay in this charming ryokan. Great location and only a block from Nishiki market. The service was friendly and helpful and they were very welcoming of our two small children. We had a lot of fun trying the traditional Japanese futons, baths and amazing breakfast.
James
It was absolutely wonderful. The staff was so helpful and accommodating. The best ramen I’ve ever had in Japan is also 50 metres down the street. Amazing service and value!
Tommy
Good experience, with Japanese traditional.
Jeracah
Welcoming staff guided us through the traditional ryokan experience. We used the onsen once and had it all to ourselves. The traditional Japanese breakfasts were HUGE and delicious - a great way for me and my family to try foods we may not have otherwise. We stayed 4 nights and each days’ breakfasts were different. Some reviewers complained about the breakfasts being too small - I think that is because they didn’t purchase the full breakfast, which does cost more and is worth it. The hotel was a very short walk to Nishiki market. Convenient location and yet it was also very quiet. Would definitely stay again.
Shia
Great ryokan stay w traditional meals included or not (your preference) and public bath in basement. Super walkable - a block to nishiki market and next door to the cutest stationary store.
Jin Jin
All the staff were very helpful and polite. Ms Hiroko especially went above and behond to assist us and we appreciate it. Beds were comfortable and traditional japanese breakfast was excellent
William
A fantastic traditional experience, but also very accessible for tourists. We loved the hospitality, food and location. Would recommend for sure.
Alex
This was the best place I stayed durung my first visit to Japan. I traveled throughout the country, and no place was better. It reminded me of staying at my grandmother's home when I was younger. The staff was especially kind and helpful. The bath was clean and relaxing. I especially felt honored by the formal welcome from the staff. They had a lady welcome me at the room and prepare green tea for me as she explained the facility. I had never stayed in a ryokan before, and my stay here was a great experience. Thank you all for enriching my life. Also, thank you for a restful place for during my tiring travels. I felt blessed to be there.
sasha
we had a great time here, the place was really well located, the staff was friendly and helpful, it was very comfortable. The hot bath was a huge plus.
Ronald
Gorgeous ryokan. Breakfast hall and hotel room had nice view.
vida
I was not sure of the place at first by seeing the pictures. But it was very nice and the people were very friendly. The place was very clean and we were very comfortable. The spot to be. Everything is walking distance
KING TIN RAPHAEL
Unbelievably great services, amazing food, brilliant staff
Linda
It was a great experience to stay in a traditional inn. And we loved the traditional breakfast. The public bath was very clean and relaxing after a long day seeing the sights. Location was very central and easy to walk to many different areas. Staff was extremely welcoming and helpful and I would stay here again if I could!
Helene
Mr Kata at the front deak is very helpful and courteous.
Clean Ryokan with wonderful kaiseki breakfast.
Clean Ryokan with wonderful kaiseki breakfast.
Luan
Fantastic service. Accomodated a lot for us
Cui-Zhu
Really enjoyed our stay at this Classic small ryokan - older facility but this is as classic as it gets for a nice ryokan. 5 of us stayed in a tatami room for 2 nights . The meals were excellent. Called ahead and they accommodated vegan meals for one of us. Kaiseki was delicious and so beautifully presented. Japanese breakfast was great too. Wonderful staff. Be prepared to walk. Subway and bus stops nearby. Subway is a good 10-15 walk. Nearby is the Nishiki market which was great to walk around and enjoy snacks and buy souvenirs. The hot public bath downstairs to relax after a long sightseeing day was wonderful. - no one was there so we enjoyed it just by ourselves each night. Convenient coin laundry was a plus. Would highly recommend to those looking for a cozy ryokan with excellent meals. Bravo to the chefs - excellent Kaiseki!
John
Hotel hours are too short for facilities like the onsen and coin laundry
Mina
Disappointing. Room was depressing, mats were hard and uncomfortable. The hotel controlled the temperature so they would blast heat from midnight to noon so we had to turn the system off and open the rickety window to cool the room so we could sleep and street noise was unavoidable. No lotions in the bathroom so had to buy one. Noticed stains on the pillows. Liked the green tea bags and cookies they left after servicing. Electric water heater with hot water always available.
Did not experience the dinner or breakfast. Walked to Tullys for coffee in the morning. Close to Nishiki market and the mall.
Did not experience the dinner or breakfast. Walked to Tullys for coffee in the morning. Close to Nishiki market and the mall.
sana
Very unique stay
It was a very unique stay in a ryokan and onsen, the staff was very helpful and welcoming , and welcomed us with a tea ceremony in our room and gave us traditional japanese robe.
Verified traveler
great traditional room. however there wasn't a lot of space once it was converted into \"bedroom\". my kids loved the onset. the staff was really helpful and gave us lots of recommendations.
breakfast was no the best as just bread and boiled egg but it was OK
I would stay again as location was good and staff helpful.
breakfast was no the best as just bread and boiled egg but it was OK
I would stay again as location was good and staff helpful.
Karen
This was our first time staying at a ryokan, and it was a cool experience. Your bedding is laid out on the tatami mats by the staff at night. We had a kaiseki meal the first night and it was pretty nice, wearing our yukata and enjoying our multi-course meal in our room. Our room was really spacious. In addition to a traditional table where you sit on the tatami mat, there was also a table with two chairs. And the amenities included a mini fridge. Our bathroom was clean, and we had access to the public baths which we used on our first night. Overall, the hotel itself is really nice and clean, and located in a great location, near the Nishiki Market. Our room felt slightly dated but it was clean and comfortable. I'd recommend this hotel to anyone wanting to stay at a ryokan.
Kuch
The service here is amazing and the gentleman with the glasses at the front (possibly the owner) is one of the best human beings you’ll deal with in the service industry. Extremely helpful and he’s funny too (I didn’t get his name).
The room is big and I recommend using a few futons as one is too thin to sleep on for anyone that weighs closer to 90kgs or more. Onsen is nice and although a little small, it was clean and nobody was in there when I used it. Breakfast is light yet you can opt in for the Japanese breakfast for a small price and do it if you haven’t had one before.
Enjoy.
The room is big and I recommend using a few futons as one is too thin to sleep on for anyone that weighs closer to 90kgs or more. Onsen is nice and although a little small, it was clean and nobody was in there when I used it. Breakfast is light yet you can opt in for the Japanese breakfast for a small price and do it if you haven’t had one before.
Enjoy.
Yali
Good family hotel
Very good location. It's right next to a popular Nishiki market.
Francesca
To avoid, really dirty and breakfast consists of bread and jam!!
Chukwuemeka
Ryokan
It was a nice ryokan(the first I've ever stayed in). For some reason I thought there would be more explanation of tradition and serving of food. My reservation said I would get breakfast. I did not get the traditional Japanese breakfast. Instead I just got some bread and coffee. You had to pay extra which I was unaware of.
Lee
Great place to experience a ryokan! Staff was super helpful with this family with 10 bags! Very clean, including the public bath. Location was super close to shopping district. Great way to experience Japan and Kyoto!
Aaron
The onsen and brands of shampoo, body wash are if high quality. The breakfast was really good and the location is wonderful as we were within walking distance to Gion, Nishiki Market as well as main shopping district.
Catharine
Disappointed
Was very disappointed. This Inn has definitely seen better days, it felt very drab. It said it could fit six, but we were cramped at three people. The teeny seating area overlooking the maintenance shaft of the building opposite only afforded two seats. But the biggest disappointment was the location, it was only close to an alley like lane of shops and restaurants, which we loved, but far from all of the sites. It was a few blocks walk to the closest bus station, and a taxi ride to the nearest train. The breakfast was dismal, in an uninspired room, just really took the enjoyment out of Kyoto. The staff was very pleasant and helpful, but for all the other points I can’t recommend this Inn. There are much better Inns around Kyoto and Nara that far exceed this one.
Verified traveler
Beautiful ryokan tucked perfectly in Kyoto. 10 minute walk from Kyoto Station, and minutes from two different shopping/eating districts. It was well worth the experience! The staff were arguably the most accommodating hotel staff I have ever encountered. They held our bags before our check in time so we could go explore the city! The room itself was marvelous. Traditional tatami flooring, tea ceremony in a kimono, and mat bedding all laid out for you. There is even a traditional bathhouse for free! Very worth it, I would highly recommend.
Lily
Very happy and please with my stay at watazen. Staff were professional and friendly. Space was clean
A
Nice ryokan, friendly staff, however the room is a bit dusty
Verified traveler
Lovely hotel near Nishiki market and walking distance to tube. Very clean.. lovely onsen.
Verified traveler
Friendly Staff and comfortable stay
We had a fabulous time here. The front desk staff was so friendly and helpful. They went out of their way to give us directions, and recommendations. The onsen was amazing and relaxing! Our room was spacious and comfortable.
Verified traveler
Staff was amazing. Each guest is received personalized attention from staff. It was a wonderful experience staying in a traditional Japanese inn with exceptional service.
Trevor
Kyoto Visit
Our experience at the Watazen Ryoo was excellent from the moment we arrived. The front staff in the afternoon of August 18th were very friendly and welcoming. They assisted us with directions as well as storing our things until check in. The room was comfortable and clean and the breakfast in the morning was sufficient. In this hot and busy summer in Kyoto the staff gets top marks. The area is also excellent and only two stops from Kyoto Station. Would recommend.
CHI LEUNG
Nice traditioal Japanese hotel
Nice traditional Japanese hotel. A bit off from the subway but not too far.
Steven
Nice ryokan near Nishiki Market
Watazen is a 180-year old ryokan chain. Very nice Japanese style tatami room. Kaiseki dinner with wagyu beef is an excellent dinner, though somewhat pricey.
Enjoy it with family in the comfort of your own room. Short walk to Nishiki market.
Enjoy it with family in the comfort of your own room. Short walk to Nishiki market.
Verified traveler
Reasonable price Japanese style hotel. The room is a bit old but with a new unit bath inside the room.
Jess
Nice Japanese style hotel with hot springs
Staffs were friendly and helpful, one staff was fluent in english and japanese. I had been to Japan, but it was my boyfriend first visit, so I picked this hotel for him to experience the Japanese style room, it was Tatami room, if you prefer a nice comfy mattress, and not to experience Japanese culture, please do not book this hotel. We booked the small room with shower only, since there was public bath (hot springs), we didn't need to use the shower room once. The public bath area wasn't huge, but it was good to dip in after all the walks in Kyoto. The walls and windows weren't thick, you can easy to hear loud noise from the street and people passing by hallway once awhile, also the slide door noise too. But so far it was a nice hotel to stay.
Verified traveler
Everything was lovely. We really enjoyed our stay, and traditional breakfast. too.
Verified traveler
Lovely but Noisy Ryokan
Room, service, and Japanese breakfast were all great. You get a free gift when you arrive and tea and local snacks every night. The one factor which made our stay not so pleasant was the noise - there was a lot of noise from the other guests staying there through the night. People upstairs were slamming the wooden sliding doors shut until nearly midnight or later, kids were yelling in the corridors, and one night the guests in the room next to us were so noisy someone else complained. It was a pity as if it hadn't been for the noise, we would have had an excellent stay.
Verified traveler
great staff but had extra charge on late checkout
Great staff, average hotel but they charged us 20$ for the late checkout (for one hour)
Verified traveler
Great location is the reason why we picked this hotel. On the other hand we also wanted to experience the old Japanese living style. The room is very spacious for 4 people. Very clean and welcoming environment. Got to try the onsen bath in the basement, very relaxing. Great staff. I forgot my phone on the taxi and they went all out to help me find the taxi and get my phone back. Excellent experience overall. Highly highly recommended.
Kaustubh
Awesome location and very friendly saff. Great place to stay at japanese traditional style hotel.
Jen
Very nice Japanese Hotel
Our stay at the Watazen Ryokan was excellent. We would stay with them again if we come back to Kyoto. Staff spoke decent English.
Verified traveler
Excellent service, friendly staff and great location. Room size is large by Japanese standards, but the futon was a little hard and uncomfortable. The continental breakfast was also poor.
Rebecca
nice place to stay
we really enjoyed staying here! great location and very friendly and easy service. a traditional ryokan a no-frills experience, so make sure you know what you're getting in to. check out time of 10am is a little too early for a hotel this expensive, but it is what it is. we had a fun and interesting time, 2 nights enough time here...i couldn't see a reason to stay here longer, and even 1 night would be enough. I definitely suggest checking this out if you want a traditional japanese experience.
Tony
Good Ryokan experience in a great location
Very happy with the 2 night stay we had here. Location is excellent, short walk to markets and shopping, plenty of good restaurants around. The ryokan experience was well worth it although I'm not sure I could get used to sleeping on the floor for longer than a couple of days, but that's just me. The Japanese breakfast is superb, and it seems to change depending on the days you are staying. The staff were also very friendly and helpful.
Verified traveler
Great experience!! The entire staff was incredibly nice to us. They offered tea upon our arrival and set up our beds while we were away during the day. The traditional Japanese breakfast (for extra) was amazing. The staff even allowed us to leave our baggage after check out since we were still staying in Kyoto for the day. Excellent service
Mishi
Immaculate room!
Had a wonderful experience at the Watazen! Our room was immaculate and spacious. Loved the traditional ryokan experience. The staff was wonderful and it was extremely close to the nishiki market and not too far from the train station (10 min walk). Would definitely stay again.
Verified traveler
Amazing staff! Wonderful experience!
We wanted an old world Japanese experience and we got it here. The staff drops whatever they are doing to attend to us and grant our every wish and always with a smile. The room is very simple, old Japanese. They lay the bedrolls out at 7:30 so its not the kind of place to hang out in the room if you aren't use to a very simple style. The hotel is in a perfect location. Its very close to the Nishiki Market, Gion district and transportation. We walked to the Nijo Castle, Pontocho Alley, and the Imperial Palace.
Verified traveler
Practically having Kyoto at your doorstep...
The Ryokan is in an amazing location - within walking distance of all you need to see and do in Kyoto without being swamped by tourists and crowds. I must admit I was hoping for a more beautiful setting/decor/interior in the hotel but to be fair there was nothing surprising from the pictures we saw. We tried the Onsen which was enjoyable but did not try the Kaiseki dinner as there was just too much choice just within the area - fantastic restaurants and of course, Nishiki market. There's a Lawson grocery store within 5 meters for any last minute purchases but you're equidistant between Daimaru and Takashimaya for the most wonderful array of packed food and fruits. We were also luckily in the precinct when the Gion Matsui procession passed by and we could not have been more spoilt. There are bicycle shops close by to rent a bike which we did for our leg to the Imperial Palace of Kyoto. Train stations - Kawaramachi and Karasuma - are within walking distance for any possible combination of trains you need to take within Kyoto and outside of Kyoto. An evening stroll will take you to the Geisha districts of Poncho and Gion, which can get very crowded. We were lucky to be in a perfect but quiet location.
Verified traveler
Nice basic ryokan
This ryokan has a more hotel feel but it provided everything I needed for my travels. Close to the shopping streets in Kyoto, however, it was a bit noisy at night and not very secluded. The hotel staff was nice and I used their laundry facility - 50 yen for a packet of laundry powder, and 300 yen to wash, 100 yen for each 20 minutes of drying. I also used their large hot spring in the basement; as I went around 6pm, it wasn't crowded. I appreciated the sweets that was replenished during my stay.
Elizabeth
Nice hotel close to Kyoto station
Beautiful hotel, I chose this hotel because of the beds, after staying 2 nights at a japanese ryokan, my family is not used to sleep in futon. The mattress were not as comfortable as we thought.
ASyd
Lovely staff, convenient location
Staff - fabulous
Location - excellent; very close to Gion district & Nishiki food stalls
Rooms - stayed in traditional tatami floors; clean, comfortable
Location - excellent; very close to Gion district & Nishiki food stalls
Rooms - stayed in traditional tatami floors; clean, comfortable
Verified traveler
Overall a great place to stay!
We enjoyed our stay at the Watazen Ryokan! The staff is very friendly and helpful. Taka spoke very good English and provided us with a great plan to visit Kiyomizu upon our arrival before the room was ready. Thanks Taka-san!
The rooms are very clean and the bathrooms are modern. We did not have dinner there, but the Japanese style breakfast was very good. It is in close proximity to multiple shopping areas and walking distance to the Gion area. We used the public bath which is a new experience for American's but relaxing and different.
I would stay here again if I had the opportunity.
The rooms are very clean and the bathrooms are modern. We did not have dinner there, but the Japanese style breakfast was very good. It is in close proximity to multiple shopping areas and walking distance to the Gion area. We used the public bath which is a new experience for American's but relaxing and different.
I would stay here again if I had the opportunity.
Enrico
Convenient and clean ryokan
This ryokan is very conveniently located in the very city center of Kyoto. There are a number of local shops and restaurants a few stones away. Staff is very nice and helpful good English is spoken.
Verified traveler
Fantastic Ryokan Experience
Our one night stay was a great experience in a traditional Japanese guest house. The staff were very friendly and informative with big smiles. Our meal was served to our room which we enjoyed and finished the night with a bath. I was hesitant to go in the bath nude but there was no body around (luckly). Breakfast was in the dining hall and again a lovely experience. There is also a great little pub opposite with great beer. Location suited us on this trip and I hope to return again one day soon.
sydney seniors
Nice ryokan superb location excellent facilities
Only problem was that wifi kept dropping out. Onsen waa great.
Plenty of futons in the room to lay one on top of each other to get some reasonable padding for a bed.
Plenty of futons in the room to lay one on top of each other to get some reasonable padding for a bed.
Tyler
Well Priced Ryokan
Simple, easy ryokan within walking distance of plenty of places.
Claudia
Welcoming traditional Ryokan
The Ryokan was easy to find, close to the train station. The staff were welcoming and spoke good English. The room was very traditional with a great view of the plum blossom tree in the garden. We were very happy staying here and will definitely come back to stay again.
James
Great Ryokan at a great price. Location is perfect. Staff was amazing.
Verified traveler
Nice Hotel
We enjoyed our stay. Clean and comfortable room with friendly staff.
gerardo
great place
great
Verified traveler
central location with spacious room
Very Central location in Kyoto right off the busy shopping street. If you're looking for a Japanese ryokan experience with a mean price this is it! Nice spacious room cleaned daily. Staff were friendly and helpful.
guy
Very relaxing, well situated ryokan.
Our room was enormous and with the sliding doors, converted into 3 separate rooms. Toast, rolls, eggs and drinks included for breakfast. Very relaxing. Also had a public bath.
Nico
Wonderful traditional japanese experience in Kyoto
We stayed one night at Ryokan Watazen on our last night in Kyoto and wish we could have stayed more. The hotel is very conviniently located in the heart of Kyoto by the Gion district. The staff was very welcoming and helpful with questions and directions. The traditionnal japanese room that we chose was superbe and very clean. The futons are comfortable and the staff made a great job installing them while we were away! We loved the sentô in the basement open late at night and early in the morning to wake up before traditional japanese breakfast which was tasty by the way and worth trying.
Great experience overall and we would definitly go back there on our next trip in Kyoto. Enjoy!
Great experience overall and we would definitly go back there on our next trip in Kyoto. Enjoy!
Fahd
Ryokan at a reasonable price
The staff at the hotel was very helpful. My wife had a medical emergency and they were able to book us into the emergency room on a Sunday evening, can't thank you enough. The ryokan was a great experience in itself and the Japanese breakfast was really nice as well.
Overall 5 star and I would highly recommend it.
thanks
Overall 5 star and I would highly recommend it.
thanks
Bec
Amazing Ryokan
Watazen has it all! Quiet, convenient location, room and onsen very clean and we could leave bags with them after checking out which. We pre arranged to have Kaiseki and changed complimentary breakfast to traditional and highly recommend doing both. However it is the exceptional staff that completes this ryokan experience and nothing was too much trouble. When they take the time to wave you goodbye on the street you know this is somewhere special.
Jerry
Great ryokan experience for the price
Staff is friendly and helpful.
They speak English, no problem with communication. They also give suggestions on dining, shopping, and things to do in Kyoto.
Room is clean and spacious. I will definitely stay again if I go to Kyoto.
They speak English, no problem with communication. They also give suggestions on dining, shopping, and things to do in Kyoto.
Room is clean and spacious. I will definitely stay again if I go to Kyoto.
Al
Great way to experience a Kyoto Ryokan
We decided to stay at this Ryokan for two nights, however we should have stayed for at least 1-2 more. Hotel staff were very nice and helpful. Rooms and onsen were clean and fun to try. I would recommend to book a room with a private bathroom, like we did, especially for western travelers that might not be used to using a public restroom. If considering staying at a ryokan while in Japan, this one was very well priced compared to others and a nice experience overall.
Bonnie
Delivers Ryokan experience
Great hotel to experience a traditional ryokan. The room was large and clean. The Japanese breakfast (additional charge and must order by 5pm the day before) was excellent. The included continental breakfast consisted of boiled eggs, pastries, and toast. Location was good, as the Nishiki Market was a two block walk. We used taxis to get around.
Verified traveler
Nice ryokan in great location
The location was perfect for shops, restaurants and the train station. All were within 5-10 minutes walk. It was a nice traditional room with more space than I expected. It had a small screened off area with a table, chairs, fridge etc.
BD
Very friendly staff. Nice room (japanese style). The Kaiseki diner is not the best food you can have in Japan, but it's a fun experience.
Libby
Friendly staff and top location!
This is the second time I have stayed at this accommodation. I returned because my first experience was so wonderful, The location is excellent. being right in the hub of the restaurants and shopping area. The staff are very helpful and friendly and the rooms big compared to other places I have stayed in,
Shizuka
Excellent ryokan style room with private shower.
The location of this ryokan is right in old Kyoto, making it convenient to walk to the market and Gion. Excellent ryokan experience and service with the convenience of both a private shower and access to the public bath. The Japanese breakfasts are excellent, they change the menu for you daily. Had a wonderful time at Watazen!
Beverly
Good location, poor amenities
We stayed in a large Japanese style room. Room was unattractive with old scratched furniture. Wi-fi was very inconsistent and mostly didn't work. Staff spoke poor English. There was no electric pot for heating water for tea, and we were provided with one tea bag per person per day and a thermos of hot water. Room was quiet except for week-end evenings, and location was terrific, close to transportation, food, nightlife and shopping, but quiet and less commercial in atmosphere. Room was over- priced for what we got. We did not pay extra for the meals.
Joey
Great experience
it was a great experience esp for those who never tried tatami before
Location & surroundings
Watazen Ryokan
Rokkaku-Sagaru, Kyoto, Japan
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Watazen Ryokan
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