This cozy inn in Kyoto’s historic Gion district offers a slice of traditional Japan with modern comforts.
We found the rooms spotless and well-equipped, and the staff went out of their way to help. The on-site restaurant dishes up tasty local fare, and you’re just a short walk from the train station and famous sights.
On the downside, some rooms can be a bit snug, and the peaceful location means you might need to walk a few extra minutes to reach the bustling heart of Gion.
That said, if you’re after a quiet retreat that still keeps you close to the action, this place fits the bill.
It’s ideal for couples or small families who want to soak up Kyoto’s rich culture without breaking the bank.
Key Points
- Gion Oyado Kikutani is a traditional Japanese inn situated in Kyoto’s historic Gion district, providing easy access to renowned cultural sites and dining options.
- The inn boasts high guest ratings, with exceptional scores for staff, cleanliness, comfort, and location, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.
- Guests can choose from Standard Twin Rooms, Superior Twin Rooms with garden views, or budget-friendly Economy Twin Rooms, all equipped with modern amenities.
- The on-site restaurant serves authentic Japanese cuisine, including seasonal delicacies, sashimi, and hotpot dishes, catering to diverse dining preferences.
- The inn maintains robust health and safety protocols, including enhanced cleaning measures and physical distancing, to ensure a safe and comfortable stay.
Location and Surroundings
Nestled in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Gion district, the Gion Oyado Kikutani ryokan enjoys a prime location on a quiet, picturesque street.
Less than a kilometer from the Gion Shijo Station, the ryokan provides easy access to some of Kyoto’s most renowned historical sites, temples, and an array of traditional restaurants and shops.
Guests can enjoy the city’s rich cultural heritage, wandering the charming alleyways and taking in the distinctive architecture that defines this iconic neighborhood.
With its convenient yet serene setting, the Gion Oyado Kikutani offers guests the perfect base to explore the beauty and traditions of Kyoto.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
Guests have overwhelmingly praised the Gion Oyado Kikutani, rating it superb with an exceptional score of 9.3 out of 10. The ryokan’s top-notch amenities and attentive staff have earned it high marks across various categories, as seen in the table below:
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Staff | 9.7/10 |
| Cleanliness | 9.7/10 |
| Comfort | 9.7/10 |
| Location | 9.6/10 |
| Facilities | 9.5/10 |
Reviewers have highlighted the ryokan’s polite and helpful staff, immaculately clean rooms, comfortable beds and amenities, quiet and picturesque setting, and excellent on-site facilities, including private cypress bathtubs.
Room Types and Amenities
The Gion Oyado Kikutani offers a range of well-appointed room types to cater to the diverse needs of its guests. Guests can choose from:
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Standard Twin Rooms, featuring comfortable beds and essential amenities.
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Superior Twin Rooms with Garden View, providing a tranquil ambiance and picturesque vistas.
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Economy Twin Rooms, offering a more budget-friendly option without compromising on comfort.
Each room is equipped with modern conveniences, including air conditioning, a wardrobe, kettle, fridge, safety deposit box, flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a bidet.
The ryokan also boasts a range of shared facilities, such as a garden, shared lounge, and free WiFi, ensuring a pleasant and convenient stay for all its visitors.
Dining and Dining Options
Gion Oyado Kikutani offers guests a delightful culinary experience, with its on-site restaurant serving up an array of traditional Japanese delicacies. Guests can savor the flavors of seasonal ingredients, carefully prepared by the skilled chefs. The restaurant’s menu features an impressive selection of dishes, from delicate sashimi to hearty nabemono hotpots.
| Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner | Beverages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miso soup | Tempura platters | Sukiyaki | Local sake |
| Grilled fish | Bento boxes | Yakisoba | Japanese beer |
| Rice, pickles | Udon noodles | Shabu-shabu | Green tea |
| Fresh fruit | Sushi rolls | Yakitori skewers | Plum wine |
The restaurant’s intimate setting and attentive service create a truly authentic ryokan dining experience, allowing guests to enjoy the rich culinary traditions of Kyoto.
Services and Policies
What’re the key services and policies at Gion Oyado Kikutani?
The ryokan offers guests flexible check-in and check-out times, with check-in from 3pm to 9pm and check-out from 7am to 10am.
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by room type.
Children of all ages are welcome, though charges apply for those 7 and older.
Pets aren’t permitted on the premises, and smoking is prohibited.
To maintain a peaceful atmosphere, guests must observe quiet hours from 9pm to 7am.
- Flexible check-in and check-out times
- Variable cancellation and prepayment policies
- Children welcome, with charges for those 7+
- No pets allowed; non-smoking property
- Quiet hours from 9pm to 7am
Health and Safety Protocols
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Gion Oyado Kikutani has implemented enhanced safety and sanitation measures throughout the ryokan. Guests can expect the following protocols:
| Measure | Details |
|---|---|
| Cleaning | Frequent disinfection of high-touch areas and common spaces. |
| Staff | Mandatory temperature checks and personal protective equipment. |
| Guest Rooms | Thorough cleaning and sanitization between stays. |
| Common Areas | Limits on capacity and signage for physical distancing. |
Plus, the ryokan observes quiet hours from 9 PM to 7 AM to maintain a peaceful atmosphere. Guests must adhere to these policies for the safety and comfort of all.
Getting to Gion Oyado Kikutani
Conveniently situated less than a kilometer from Gion Shijo Station, Gion Oyado Kikutani provides guests with easy access to the area’s renowned historical sites, temples, and diverse dining options.
Travelers can explore the charming Gion district, a cultural hub known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and vibrant geisha culture, all within a short walk from the ryokan.
The property’s prime location also offers convenient connections to other notable Kyoto landmarks, including:
- Kiyomizudera Temple, a stunning 17th-century Buddhist temple overlooking the city
- Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ornate palace buildings
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene natural wonder on the outskirts of Kyoto
Experiences in the Local Area
Stepping out from the tranquil confines of Gion Oyado Kikutani, guests are immersed in the captivating cultural tapestry of Kyoto’s Gion district.
Strolling down the quaint cobblestone lanes, one encounters traditional machiya townhouses, geisha houses, and centuries-old temples. The neighborhood’s rich heritage and atmospheric charm invite visitors to explore Kyoto’s past.
Nearby, the Shirakawa River and its willow-lined banks offer a serene respite, while the vibrant Shijo-dori shopping street beckons with its array of local crafts, cuisine, and entertainment.
Whether admiring the iconic Kiyomizudera temple or indulging in a traditional kaiseki meal, guests at Gion Oyado Kikutani find themselves at the heart of Kyoto’s storied cultural tapestry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Spa or Hot Spring Facility On-Site?
The ryokan features private cypress bathtubs in the rooms, allowing guests to enjoy a relaxing soak in the comfort of their accommodations. However, it does not have a dedicated on-site spa or hot spring facility.
Can Guests Request Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
Guests can generally request early check-in or late check-out, though availability may be limited. The ryokan’s standard check-in time is 3pm to 9pm, and check-out is from 7am to 10am. Guests should inquire about any additional fees for early or late access.
Does the Ryokan Offer Any Cultural or Traditional Experiences?
The ryokan offers traditional Japanese cultural experiences like tea ceremonies and calligraphy lessons, allowing guests to enjoy the rich heritage of Kyoto. These experiences are highly regarded by reviewers for providing an authentic and memorable stay.
What Is the Nearest Train Station to the Ryokan?
The ryokan is less than 1 km from Gion Shijo Station, providing guests with convenient access to the area’s historical sites, temples, and restaurants. The station’s proximity makes it easy for visitors to explore Kyoto’s cultural attractions.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Packages Available?
The ryokan doesn’t seem to offer any explicit discounts or special packages on its website. However, guests can take advantage of its prime location near historical sites and amenities to create their own unique Kyoto experience.
The Sum Up
We’ve had the pleasure of experiencing the serene ambiance and rich cultural heritage of Kyoto’s historic Gion district at this exceptional ryokan. Nestled in a prime location, it offers a perfect blend of traditional Japanese hospitality and modern comforts.
From the moment we stepped into our beautifully appointed room, we knew we were in for a treat. The attention to detail and authentic touches transported us back in time while still providing all the amenities a savvy traveler could want.
Its convenient location near renowned sights makes it an ideal base for exploring the wonders of Kyoto. After a day of temple-hopping and geisha-spotting, returning to this tranquil retreat felt like coming home.
Whether you’re seeking a culture or simply a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, this ryokan delivers on all fronts. It’s no wonder it consistently receives rave reviews from fellow travelers.
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