Kyoto Ryokan SAKANOUE, Kyoto

The location was unbeatable - turn left and you’re footsteps away from a great temple walk past Kodaiji all the way to Kiyamizu-dera. Turn right as you exit the ryokan and you’re a few blocks away from shopping, restaurants, and convenient train lines, as well as the famous streets of Gion. But most impressive were the staff who were very attentive, kind, and obviously cared deeply about the experience of their guests. The room was beautiful. And the breakfasts were delicious.

Would have appreciated a mini tour of the grounds and bath house. We didn’t even realize there was one there until it was too late. Excellent service, very quaint. The dinner was just okay... not our favorite meal. We enjoyed our 1 night stay here for the experience.

I visit Kyoto every year and this was the best Ryokan I’ve at reasonable price and services. I’ll recommend this place to everyone from couple to family.

We loved the Sakanoue. The location in Gion can’t be beat. The staff was lovely and helpful. The traditional Japanese accommodations were fabulous and we loved soaking in the tub each night after lots of walking each day.

Hotels.Com as misinforming the property is NOT smoke free there were people smoking in the lobby. Nice people at hotel though but incorrect description of property.

Wonderful stay with friendly staff. Even though they spoke limited English, they were so sweet. Very cool experience to stay in a traditional ryokan and enjoy a gourmet kaiseki dinner and breakfast. Neighborhood is quiet and mostly residential.

AUTHENTIC! Loved my stay at Sakanoue! Hope it never changes and people will always respect the culture that Sakanoue presents to its patrons.

We loved our stay at a traditional ryokan. The location was perfect to bus stops and trains as well as great restaurants. The breakfast meal was delicious and all the staff was extremely welcoming and sweet.

Wonderful stay! The staff was amazingly helpful and friendly. As someone who doesn't speak Japanese, the staff went out of their way to speak English (very well, too!),and there were never any communication issues. The staff was able to help me by calling restaurants and making dinner reservations. The room was spacious and comfortable. The common areas could use some upgrades, but overall I would highly recommend it. We did not eat at the ryokan so I cannot comment on the food. A wonderful traditional experience and I would highly recommend it.

The hotel is centrally located and the staff was very friendly. This is a traditional Japanese inn experience so sleeping on futons by default is not comfortable, we stayed for one night and that was perfect. Also be aware that the room is not turned over for sleeping until 8pm (ie, futon mats placed for sleeping), we were exhausted from traveling so would have liked to lay down before heading out again. We did not try the dinner but we enjoyed the morning breakfast.