In our review, we found this traditional Japanese inn to be a real gem, just a stone’s throw from the famous Byodo-in Temple.
You’ll sleep on futons in tatami rooms or Western-style beds, depending on your preference. The public baths and saunas are perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. Don’t miss the mouthwatering multi-course Kaiseki dinners served on-site.
While the rooms are comfortable, they might feel small by Western standards. Some guests have mentioned that the walls can be a bit thin, so light sleepers might want to pack earplugs.
This ryokan is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy Japanese culture and explore Uji’s historic sites.
It’s especially well-suited for couples seeking a romantic getaway or history buffs eager to dive into the area’s rich past. If you’re looking for a truly authentic Japanese experience with modern comforts, this place hits the mark.
Key Points
- Hanayashiki Ukifune-en is a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) located in Uji, near the Byodo-in Temple and other historical attractions.
- The ryokan offers a variety of well-appointed accommodations, including Akebono Deluxe Family Rooms and Tokiwa Junior Suites, catering to diverse traveler needs.
- Guests can enjoy on-site amenities such as public baths, saunas, hot tub, and a restaurant serving traditional Kaiseki meals made with seasonal ingredients.
- The ryokan’s location provides an exceptional base for cultural and historical exploration of Uji, with easy access to nearby shrines and the Uji Train Station.
- Hanayashiki Ukifune-en has received an overall rating of 8.7/10 from guests, with high scores for staff, facilities, and cleanliness, making it a popular choice for visitors.
Location and Nearby Attractions
The Hanayashiki Ukifune-en ryokan enjoys a prime location in the city of Uji, just a 5-minute walk from the iconic Byodo-in Temple.
Guests can also easily reach the Ujigami Shrine and Uji Shrine, both within a 10-minute walk.
The property is just a 5-minute drive from the Uji Train Station, making it convenient for travelers to explore the surrounding areas.
With a location rating of 9.0/10 from 37 reviews, it’s clear that the Hanayashiki Ukifune-en offers an exceptional base for discovering the cultural and historical attractions of Uji.
Accommodation Options
Across the property, Hanayashiki Ukifune-en offers a range of well-appointed accommodation options to suit various travelers’ needs.
Guests can choose from spacious Akebono Deluxe Family Rooms with 5 futon beds, cozy Japanese-Style Rooms with the same bed configuration, or the Tokiwa Junior Suite featuring 2 single beds and 3 futon beds.
Those seeking more luxury can opt for the property’s various Twin Rooms.
All accommodations provide modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi.
Regardless of room type, guests can enjoy access to the ryokan’s excellent facilities, including public baths, saunas, and a hot tub.
Facility Highlights
Hanayashiki Ukifune-en boasts an impressive array of facilities that cater to the diverse needs of its guests.
The ryokan offers free Wi-Fi throughout, allowing visitors to stay connected. Guests can enjoy the relaxing public baths, saunas, and hot tub, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Each room is equipped with a flat-screen TV, ensuring entertainment at your fingertips. For those arriving by car, the property provides free parking, a convenient perk.
Visitors can indulge in the on-site restaurant, which serves traditional Kaiseki meals crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The souvenir shop allows guests to bring a piece of their experience home.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
Consistently, guests lavish praise on Hanayashiki Ukifune-en’s exceptional service and well-appointed facilities. The ryokan earns an impressive overall rating of 8.7/10 from reviewers. Drilling down, the staff garners a stellar 9.0 score, while the facilities, cleanliness, and comfort all rate above 8.5. Value for money, at 7.9, is the only area where the ryokan falls slightly short. As the table below shows, guests highlight the excellent location, traditional-style rooms, and enjoyable onsen experience.
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Staff | 9.0 |
| Facilities | 8.5 |
| Cleanliness | 8.8 |
| Comfort | 8.8 |
| Value for Money | 7.9 |
Dining Experience
Along With its well-appointed accommodations, Hanayashiki Ukifune-en offers guests an exceptional dining experience.
The ryokan’s restaurant serves traditional Japanese Kaiseki meals, meticulously crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Diners can savor the flavors of expertly prepared multi-course dishes that highlight the local culinary traditions.
Breakfast options are also available, allowing guests to start their day with an authentic Japanese breakfast.
While the ryokan doesn’t offer a bar, guests can indulge in wine or champagne for an additional charge, complementing their elegant dining experience.
With its focus on seasonal, high-quality cuisine, the ryokan ensures that its guests enjoy a memorable gastronomic journey during their stay.
Policies and Check-in/Out
Guests can check in to Hanayashiki Ukifune-en from 16:00 onwards, with a check-out time of 10:00.
The ryokan has a few key policies for guests to be aware of:
- Children of any age are welcome, but those 6 and above will be charged as adults.
- Pets aren’t allowed on the premises.
- Smoking is prohibited throughout the ryokan.
All payments must be made by card, as the ryokan doesn’t accept cash.
These policies help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all guests at Hanayashiki Ukifune-en.
Onsite Amenities
Hanayashiki Ukifune-en boasts an array of on-site amenities to enhance guests’ traditional Japanese experience.
Visitors can unwind in the property’s public baths, saunas, and hot tub, all providing a rejuvenating onsen experience. The ryokan also offers free Wi-Fi throughout, allowing guests to stay connected.
Each room is equipped with a flat-screen TV, ensuring modern comforts. For dining, the on-site restaurant serves delectable Kaiseki meals crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Plus, the ryokan features a souvenir shop, enabling guests to bring a piece of Japan home.
With these thoughtful amenities, Hanayashiki Ukifune-en seamlessly blends tradition and modernity to create a truly immersive stay.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
The ryokan’s prime location in Uji allows guests to effortlessly explore the area’s renowned attractions.
Just a 5-minute walk away is the stunning Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its Phoenix Hall. Visitors can also stroll to Ujigami Shrine and Uji Shrine, two historic shrines rooted in Japanese culture.
For those seeking transportation, the Uji Train Station is only a 5-minute drive from the ryokan, providing easy access to Kyoto and other nearby destinations.
With so much to discover right at the doorstep, guests can enjoy the rich heritage and beauty of Uji during their stay at Hanayashiki Ukifune-en.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Dress Code for Guests at the Restaurant?
There is no strict dress code at the restaurant. Casual, comfortable attire is generally acceptable. However, guests are expected to be well-groomed and avoid wearing overly casual or revealing clothing out of respect for the traditional Japanese dining experience.
Can I Rent a Bicycle to Explore the Local Area?
Unfortunately, the ryokan does not offer bicycle rentals. However, the excellent location near Uji’s top attractions makes it easy to explore the area on foot or by public transportation. Guests can inquire at the front desk for nearby rental options.
Are There Any Special Packages or Offers Available?
The ryokan offers various seasonal and holiday packages, including discounted room rates and inclusive meals. Guests should check the website or contact the staff for details on any special offers available during their stay.
Can I Store My Luggage if I Arrive Early?
Yes, the ryokan offers luggage storage if you arrive early before check-in time. Guests can leave their bags at the front desk and explore the area until their room is ready.
What Time Does the Onsen Close in the Evenings?
The onsen, or Japanese hot springs, at the ryokan typically close around 10 PM in the evenings. However, it’s best to check with the front desk for the exact closing time during your stay.
The Sum Up
We’ve just wrapped up our stay at this enchanting ryokan in Kyoto’s Uji region, and boy, what a treat! This place is the real deal, folks – a slice of old Japan that’ll transport you back in time faster than you can say "konnichiwa."
Picture this: you’re soaking in a steaming onsen, surrounded by nature’s finest, while the worries of the modern world melt away. Then, you retire to your cozy room, sliding doors and all, before indulging in a meal that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance.
But the cherry on top? This gem is just a stone’s throw from the jaw-dropping Byodo-in Temple. Talk about location, location, location!
Now, if you’re itching to experience this cultural cocoon for yourself, you’re in luck. That handy button below? It’ll whisk you away to Booking.com, our go-to for nabbing great deals. We use it ourselves to book our stays, and it hasn’t let us down yet. So go ahead, treat yourself to a little slice of Japanese paradise. Your future self will thank you!