In our review of this 90-year-old inn near Nara, we found a slice of traditional Japan just a stone’s throw from bustling Kyoto and Osaka. The rooms blend old-world charm with modern comforts, featuring tatami mats alongside high-tech toilets.
The multi-course kaiseki meals are a feast for the senses, showcasing the best local ingredients each season has to offer.
While the experience is truly immersive, some travelers might find the traditional sleeping arrangements on futons a bit challenging. Plus, the location, though convenient for day trips, is slightly removed from major city attractions.
This ryokan is perfect for culture enthusiasts and history buffs looking to dive deep into Japanese traditions. It’s also ideal for food lovers eager to savor authentic local cuisine.
If you’re seeking a peaceful retreat after exploring nearby World Heritage sites, this could be your home away from home in Japan.
Key Points
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Ryotei Jyusouya is a 90-year-old traditional Japanese inn located in Nara, Japan, offering Japanese-style guest rooms and a range of cultural experiences.
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The inn’s proximity to major attractions like Horyu-ji Temple and Chogosonshi-ji Temple makes it an ideal base for exploring Nara’s rich cultural heritage.
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Guests can enjoy a traditional dining experience featuring exquisite kaiseki cuisine made with locally sourced, high-quality ingredients and emphasis on seasonal produce.
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The inn provides a range of unique experiences, including local culture classes, guided walking tours, and outdoor activities like fishing and hiking.
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Ryotei Jyusouya is highly rated for its commitment to authentic Japanese hospitality, cleanliness, and quality of facilities, with a staff proficient in English.
Property Overview
The Ryotei Jyusouya is a 90-year-old traditional Japanese inn located in the Nara prefecture, situated just 44 km from Kyoto, 19 km from Osaka, and 29 km from Osaka International Airport.
The inn is in close proximity to notable attractions like Horyu-ji Temple and Chogosonshi-ji Temple.
The property features Japanese-style guest rooms with tatami flooring and amenities such as TVs and high-tech toilets. Accommodations range from Japanese-style rooms with 5 futon beds to Japanese-style quadruple rooms with 2 single beds.
Guests can enjoy the property’s non-smoking rooms, family rooms, free WiFi, public bath, hot spring bath, garden, and room service, as well as traditional Japanese cuisine for dinner and breakfast.
Guest Accommodations
Ryotei Jyusouya offers a variety of Japanese-style guest rooms to accommodate visitors.
The rooms feature traditional tatami flooring and are equipped with TVs and high-tech toilets. Guests can choose between a Japanese-Style Room with 5 futon beds or a Japanese-Style Quadruple Room with 2 single beds.
The ryokan also provides non-smoking rooms and family rooms, as well as free WiFi, a public bath, a hot spring bath, a garden, and room service.
Guests have praised the cleanliness, comfort, and facilities, rating them 8.8/10. The ryokan’s staff have also been highly rated, with English proficiency noted as a highlight.
Dining Experience
At Ryotei Jyusouya, guests can indulge in a traditional Japanese dining experience. The inn’s restaurant serves exquisite kaiseki cuisine, a multi-course meal showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients.
Guests can look forward to:
- Expertly prepared dishes that balance flavors, textures, and presentation
- A focus on locally sourced, high-quality produce and seafood
- Beautifully plated courses that are a feast for the senses
- An opportunity to savor the nuances of traditional Japanese culinary techniques
- An attentive and knowledgeable staff to guide guests through the dining experience
Along With the evening kaiseki dinner, the inn also offers a traditional Japanese-style breakfast, further immersing guests in the ryokan’s authentic cultural experience.
Nearby Attractions
Beyond the serene ryokan grounds, guests at Ryotei Jyusouya can explore a wealth of cultural and historical attractions in the surrounding area.
Just a 20-minute drive away is the renowned Horyu-ji Temple, one of the oldest wooden structures in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
For a closer encounter with local spirituality, the Chogosonshi-ji Temple is just a 3-minute walk from the ryokan. Visitors can wander through its peaceful gardens and admire the intricate Buddhist architecture.
With convenient access to these significant landmarks, guests can enjoy Nara’s rich cultural heritage during their stay at Ryotei Jyusouya.
Policies and Services
Guests can check in from 16:00 to 18:00 and must check out between 09:00 and 10:00.
Cancellation policies vary by accommodation type.
Children 6 years and older are charged as adults, while pets aren’t allowed.
Payments are accepted via UnionPay upon request, as cash isn’t accepted.
Special requests, such as accommodating guests with tattoos in public bathing areas or providing advance notice for dinner service after check-in, should be communicated in advance.
- Cancellation policies vary by accommodation type
- Children 6 years and older are charged as adults
- Pets aren’t allowed
- Payments are accepted via UnionPay upon request
- Special requests should be communicated in advance
Guest Reviews and Ratings
Ryotei Jyusouya has earned an impressive 8.5/10 rating from guests based on their reviews.
The hotel’s staff are particularly praised, receiving a perfect 10/10 score. Guests also highlight the cleanliness, comfort, and quality of the facilities, which are rated 8.8/10.
The traditional Japanese cuisine, including the kaiseki dinner and breakfast, is a standout feature, with visitors commending the food’s excellence.
The ryokan offers a remarkable guest experience, showcasing its commitment to traditional hospitality and attention to detail.
Ryotei Jyusouya’s positive reviews reflect its ability to provide an authentic and memorable stay for visitors seeking an immersive Japanese cultural experience.
Accessibility and Transportation
The ryokan’s convenient location and complimentary transportation services make it easily accessible for guests.
Located just 19 kilometers from Osaka and 29 kilometers from Osaka International Airport, the ryokan offers a free shuttle service from the nearest train station, ensuring a stress-free arrival.
Guests can also explore the surrounding area with ease, as the property is within a short 20-minute drive of the renowned Horyu-ji Temple and a 3-minute walk from the Chogosonshi-ji Temple.
The ryokan’s accessibility features include:
- Free pick-up service from the nearest train station
- Proximity to major cities and airports
- Convenient location near popular local attractions
- Walking tours and guided cultural activities available
- Multilingual staff to assist with transportation and sightseeing.
Unique Experiences
Immersive cultural experiences await visitors at Ryotei Jyusouya, where ancient traditions and modern comforts seamlessly blend.
Guests can participate in local culture classes, learning the art of traditional Japanese crafts, calligraphy, or tea ceremony.
Guided walking tours reveal the property’s rich history and the surrounding natural beauty, including the nearby Chogosonshi-ji Temple.
For a more adrenaline-fueled adventure, the hotel can arrange fishing and hiking excursions in the nearby countryside.
Throughout their stay, guests will be captivated by the ryokan’s attentive service and the opportunity to enjoy authentic Japanese hospitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Dress Code for the Traditional Kaiseki Dinner?
There is typically no strict dress code for a traditional kaiseki dinner, though guests are often encouraged to dress in smart casual attire to match the formal dining experience. Formal wear is not required, but neat, elegant clothing is generally expected.
Can I Bring My Own Toiletries or Are They Provided?
Guests at the property generally have toiletries provided, though they’re welcome to bring their own. The accommodations are well-appointed and equipped with high-tech toilets, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors.
Is There a Minimum Stay Requirement at the Property?
There appears to be no minimum stay requirement at this property. Guests can book for a single night or longer, depending on their needs and preferences. The property is flexible in accommodating various stay durations.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Longer Stays?
The property doesn’t mention any discounts or packages for longer stays. However, guests may want to inquire about any special offers or deals when booking their reservation, as policies can vary depending on the season and occupancy.
Can I Request a Specific Room Type or View During Booking?
Guests can request specific room types or views when booking, though availability may be limited. The property will try to accommodate preferences where possible, but cannot guarantee availability of all requested room features.
The Sum Up
We’ve spent countless nights in ryokans across Japan, but this gem in the Nara countryside truly stands out. Imagine soaking in a traditional onsen after a day of temple-hopping, then sliding into a fluffy futon laid out on tatami mats. That’s just the beginning of the authentic experience awaiting you at this historic retreat.
The kaiseki dinner here is a work of art – each course tells a story of local ingredients and centuries-old culinary traditions. As you savor every bite, you’ll feel transported to another era, one where time moves a little slower and every detail is crafted with care.
While it feels worlds away from the bustle of modern Japan, this ryokan is surprisingly accessible from major tourist hubs. It’s the perfect base for exploring Nara’s cultural treasures by day and unwinding in serene luxury by night.
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