Welcome to our review of a hidden gem in Kyoto! This traditional Japanese inn, nestled near the Kamo River, offers a slice of authentic Japan just a short stroll from the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
You’ll sleep on futons laid out on tatami mat floors, experiencing the simple elegance of Japanese accommodations. The on-site restaurant serves up tasty local dishes with a side of river views.
While the culture is fantastic, keep in mind that sleeping on futons might be tough for some Western backs.
Also, the traditional style means you might find less privacy than in a typical hotel.
This place is perfect for travelers eager to dive into Japanese culture and those who appreciate a quieter, more intimate lodging experience.
If you’re looking for high-end amenities or Western-style beds, you might want to look elsewhere.
But for the culturally curious and those seeking a genuine taste of old Kyoto, this ryokan hits the spot!
Key Points
- Tazuru is a traditional Japanese-style ryokan located in Kyoto, offering convenient access to popular attractions like Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the Gion district.
- The accommodation options range from Japanese-style twin rooms to townhouses, catering to various group sizes and preferences.
- Tazuru features a restaurant serving Japanese cuisine, with a riverside terrace providing a serene dining experience.
- The ryokan offers amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and baggage storage, ensuring a comfortable stay.
- Tazuru has received an overall rating of 8.5 out of 10 from guests, with high praise for its location, decor, and friendly staff.
Location and Accessibility
The Tazuru Ryokan boasts an excellent location, rated 9.4/10 by guests.
It’s situated close to the serene Kamo River and just a 20-minute walk from the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
The property is also within a 10-minute walk of the vibrant Shijo and Gion areas, providing easy access to local shops and restaurants.
For convenient transportation, the Kiyomizu-gojo Subway Station is a mere 5-minute walk away, and a 10-minute bus ride takes guests to the JR Kyoto Station.
With its prime positioning, the Tazuru Ryokan offers guests a seamless exploration of Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage and attractions.
Accommodation and Room Types
Tazuru Ryokan offers guests a range of traditional Japanese-style accommodations to choose from. The rooms feature tatami flooring, low tables, and futon bedding, providing an authentic ryokan experience. Guests can select from various room types, including Japanese-Style Twin, Triple, Quadruple, and Townhouse, which can accommodate up to 6 people.
| Room Type | Capacity | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Japanese-Style Twin | 2 | Tatami, low table, futon |
| Triple | 3 | Tatami, low table, futon |
| Quadruple | 4 | Tatami, low table, futon |
| Townhouse | 6 | Tatami, low table, futon |
Guests can enjoy modern conveniences such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and family-friendly options, while seeing the traditional ambiance of Tazuru Ryokan.
Dining and Culinary Offerings
At Tazuru Ryokan, the restaurant serves delicately prepared Japanese cuisine with captivating river views.
Guests can enjoy traditional breakfast offerings, as well as a varied selection of dinner options.
The riverside terrace provides a serene setting for dining. Reviewers have praised the quality of the meals and the attentive service at the restaurant.
Whether it’s a traditional breakfast, a multi-course dinner, or al fresco dining by the river, Tazuru’s culinary experience promises to delight the senses and leave a lasting impression on guests.
Amenities and Facilities
Guests at Tazuru Ryokan can enjoy a range of amenities and facilities. The traditional Japanese-style rooms feature tatami flooring, low tables, and futon bedding, providing a serene and authentic experience. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, family rooms, and a restaurant serving delicately prepared Japanese cuisine. The property also offers baggage storage, meeting/banquet facilities, and air conditioning.
| Amenities | Facilities |
|---|---|
| Free Wi-Fi | Baggage storage |
| Family rooms | Meeting/banquet facilities |
| Restaurant | Air conditioning |
| Heating | Smoke-free property |
Guests can experience the beauty of Kyoto’s Kamo River and easily access popular landmarks, making Tazuru an ideal choice for a traditional Japanese getaway.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
The overall rating for Tazuru Ryokan stands at an impressive 8.5 out of 10, reflecting its status as a "very good" accommodation option.
Guests have consistently praised the staff, giving them an exceptional 9.5 rating. Cleanliness and comfort also score highly at 9.0.
The facilities rate 8.5, while value for money comes in at 8.2.
Positive comments highlight the ryokan’s excellent location, traditional decor, and friendly service.
Tazuru’s blend of comfort, amenities, and culture appears to offer guests a memorable experience in Kyoto.
Check-in and Check-out Policies
Check-in at Tazuru Ryokan is available from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and guests must check out by 10:00 AM.
The cancellation policies vary, and guests will be required to pay the full amount at check-in.
Children of all ages are welcome, but no pets are allowed.
Smoking isn’t permitted, and tattooed guests may face restrictions in the public bathing areas.
Due to COVID-19, the property has implemented reduced services and mandatory mask-wearing in indoor areas.
Special Considerations
Amid the traditional charm of Tazuru Ryokan, certain special considerations come into play. The property enforces a no-smoking policy throughout, and guests with tattoos may face restrictions in the public bathing areas.
Children of all ages are welcome, but the ryokan doesn’t accommodate pets. Travelers should also be aware of the check-in and check-out times, as late arrivals after 7 PM may not be permitted.
Plus, the ryokan has implemented COVID-19 measures, including reduced services and mandatory mask-wearing in indoor spaces. Guests are advised to review the cancellation policies, as full payment is required at check-in with varying refund options.
COVID-19 Precautions
Tazuru Ryokan has implemented several COVID-19 precautions to ensure guest safety. Mandatory masks are required in all indoor areas, and the property has reduced its services in line with government guidelines.
Guests can expect a decreased capacity in the restaurant and a suspension of some amenities, like the public bathing areas. The ryokan has also enhanced cleaning and disinfection protocols throughout the property.
While these measures may impact the traditional ryokan experience, they prioritize the well-being of both guests and staff. Travelers can feel confident that Tazuru is taking the necessary steps to provide a safe and enjoyable stay during these unprecedented times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Guests Bring Their Own Food to the Ryokan?
While the ryokan has a restaurant, guests are generally not permitted to bring their own food onto the premises. However, guests are advised to check with the ryokan staff about any special food-related requests or dietary needs.
Is There a Spa or Onsen (Hot Spring) on the Premises?
There’s no on-site spa or onsen at this ryokan. However, guests can easily access nearby public hot spring facilities for a traditional Japanese bathing experience during their stay.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Longer Stays?
There don’t appear to be any long-stay discounts or packages mentioned in the provided information about this accommodation. Guests will need to check directly with the ryokan for any special offers or rates for extended visits.
Can the Ryokan Accommodate Special Dietary Requirements?
Tazuru offers accommodations for guests with special dietary requirements. They can provide meals that cater to vegetarian, vegan, or halal diets upon request. Guests should notify the ryokan in advance to ensure their needs are met.
Is There a Dress Code for the Public Areas of the Ryokan?
There’s no strict dress code, but guests are expected to dress modestly in the public areas. Casual and comfortable attire is generally acceptable, though guests may be asked to cover up tattoos when using shared bathing facilities.
The Sum Up
We enjoyed our stay at this charming ryokan, which offers travelers a true slice of Japanese hospitality. Nestled in a convenient location, it serves as an ideal springboard for exploring Kyoto’s cultural treasures.
The traditional design whisks you back in time, while modern amenities ensure a comfortable stay. We savored exquisite Japanese cuisine and found ourselves drawn to the peaceful riverside terrace for moments of quiet reflection.
Impeccable service is the cherry on top of this historic hotel, where timeless elegance meets contemporary comfort. It’s the perfect spot to learn about Japanese culture without sacrificing creature comforts.
Ready to experience it for yourself? Hit the button below to book through Booking.com. We use them for our own reservations (at no extra cost to us) and find their prices are usually quite competitive. Happy travels!