The Westin Miyako KyotovsTawaraya Ryokan
Both hotels are rated very highly by experts. On balance, The Westin Miyako Kyoto is preferred by most reviewers compared to Tawaraya Ryokan. The Westin Miyako Kyoto has a TripExpert Score of 90 with approval from 10 reviews including Lonely Planet, Fodor's and Frommer's.
The Westin Miyako Kyoto
1 Awadaguchi Kachocho, Higashiyama-ku, Sanjo Keage, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 605-0052
From $319/night
- Bar/Lounge
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Shuttle Bus
- Laundry Service
Concierge
"It's still the place to stay if you want to make the right impression on your local business associates or Japanese in-laws."
i
For runners, this is a great location; ask for a map of nearby wooded trails.
Fodor's
"At the foot of the mountains, the Westin Miyako feels far from the city while retaining great access to downtown." Full review
Travel + Leisure
"A 16-acre compound installed on the tree-covered Higashiyama Hills just outside of Kyoto, this historic 1890 hotel has hosted kings, queens, presidents, and celebrities." Full review
i
Recharge with a facial or body treatment at Sothys Skin Care Salon on the third floor, or savor Jing tea and truffles at the Mayfair Tea Room.
DK Eyewitness
"An elegant and luxurious hotel, with an annex styled as a Japanese tea room for those wanting ryokan-style accommodation."
Time Out
"The setting can’t be faulted: the 501-room Westin sits against a verdant mountain and boasts gardens by master Jihei Ogawa and his son." Full review
Star Service
"On 6 landscaped hectares on the eastern outskirts of the city, 4 kilometers northeast of Kyoto Station, this hotel is opposite Keage Station, near some of Japan's finest shrines, temples and museums." Full review
Oyster
4.0
"This large, 499-room Westin has served as a hotel since 1900 and has an illustrious history, housing Allied officers during World War II, and now hosting state officials from all over the world." Full review
Michelin Guide
"This large hotel is divided into a main building, east and south wings, and the Kasuien annexe designed by Togo Murano to resemble a tea ceremony house." Full review
i
Guest rooms vary, from double to Western/Japanese hybrid and some are designed for long-term stays; ask for one with a view.
Frommer's
"For families, there's a playroom equipped with a slide and toys for young children, plus both indoor and outdoor pools...a variety of Western-style rooms are available" Full review
Forbes Travel Guide
"The property still maintains its 19th-century charm...this beautiful blend of past and present guarantees that The Westin Miyako Hotel Kyoto will continue its long-lasting legacy.
" Full review
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