Tawaraya RyokanvsKinmata
Both hotels are rated highly by experts. On balance, Tawaraya Ryokan is preferred by most reviewers compared to Kinmata. Tawaraya Ryokan is ranked #7 in Kyoto with positive reviews from 4 publications such as concierge.com, Frommer's and Lonely Planet.
Tawaraya Ryokan
278 Nakahakusancho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 604-8094
From $0/night
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Free Breakfast
- Air Conditioning
- Breakfast included
Frommer's
"With refined taste reigning supreme, each room is different and exquisitely appointed." Full review
Concierge
"A favorite of heads of state, movie stars, and obsessive Japanophiles... devastatingly expensive."
Star Service
"Located east of the Oike subway station, this expensive hostelry numbers among the most famous ryokan in Japan, along with Hiiragiya across the street." Full review
i
The hotel rarely responds to special requests in advance.
Hideaway Report
96.0
"Celebrated ryokan in the center of the city, owned by the same family for nearly 300 years. Stepping inside feels like a form of time travel." Full review
Fodor's
"The hotel is known not only for its hospitality, but also for the sumptuous but subdued decor, impeccable service, and splendid gardens." Full review
Lonely Planet
Top choice
"Tawaraya has been operating for more than three centuries and is one of the finest places to stay in the world." Full review
Kinmata
407 Dainichicho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 604-8044
From $0/night
- Room Service
- Restaurant
- Air Conditioning
Concierge
"This inn, now in business for more than 200 years, is worth experiencing—if you're lucky enough to get a room."
Fodor's
"This high-class ryokan offers a trip back in time. ... The staff is friendly, the atmosphere welcoming, and the rooms are beautiful and decidedly unpretentious." Full review
Travel + Leisure
"This intimate 1801 ryokan near the Nishiki food market serves owner Haruji Ukai’s seafood kaiseki meals." Full review
DK Eyewitness
"Only seven rooms means you feel like you’re being welcomed into the home of a (very wealthy and formal) Japanese family,."