Kyoto Ryokan Gion Sano

The hotel was in the middle of a beautiful street in Gion district. Coming out and walking around was so tranquil and peaceful with old style Kyoto homes. The property itself was super cute and clean. The best part was the on-site doggies that greeted you with lots of kisses. They had a maiko performance on Saturday for the guests of the hotel. We were able to interact with the performer, played games, danced and there was even karaoke! The staff would provide amazing fruits and snacks everyday. They have a massage chair if you are tired of all the walking and the best perk is that they did our laundry while we were out exploring. The staff were super sweet and though communication was a little challenge we always managed to get everything answered using apps on our phone. We usually stay in 4-5 star hotels but the dogs on site convinced me to stay here and I have to say this hotel was a better experience than any 5 star hotel we have stayed in. I would 100% recommend this place for couples, singles and friends traveling to Kyoto. We were so sad to leave this place but hope we can come back and stay here again.

The staff were so friendly it was line staying with family. Every day they would always leave fresh fruit and something extra in the fridge for me in the evenings which was a welcome surprise after exploring during the day. The room was a good size and comfortable with plenty of tea, coffee and a few snacks outside the room free for guests to help themselves to. Location was very central to a few tourist sites and I was lucky enough to have the honour of meeting a Maiko along with other guests. The Maiko explained why she had taken that path, taught us about the steps and training she had gone through up to that point, showed us some traditional games which we took part in and performed a traditional dance which she then on went to explain the symbolism of the movements and use of the paper fan. There were a few dogs roaming around the main reception area but oh so friendly and inquisitive, you could tell they were comfortable around strangers and would greet people as they came through to the reception.

Absolutely perfect location in Gion. These small streets are a different world from the rest of Kyoto. The 4 hosts here are both sweet and very, very funny. The rooms are spacious and comfortable. While breakfast and omakase are not served here, fresh fruit, snacks, and treats are delivered to your room daily. The hosts kindly do your laundry for you while you are exploring. If you are there while they host a Maiko show YOU MUST GO! A private event with a geisha normally starts at 80,000 yen and this is free for guests! Tea, sake, dancing, games, and karaoke. I've never laughed so hard in my life.

My stay at this charming traditional inn (ryokan) in Gion was absolutely unforgettable. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with genuine warmth and kindness by the incredible staff. Everyone went above and beyond to make me feel at home, and their hospitality was one of the highlights of my visit. The inn itself is a beautiful example of classic Japanese accommodation — quaint, peaceful, and full of character. Sleeping on tatami mats and futons added an authentic touch that made the experience feel uniquely special. Everything was impeccably clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully arranged. The location couldn’t be better — just a short walk from some of Kyoto’s most iconic temples and historic streets. It’s the perfect base for exploring the cultural heart of the city. And to top it all off, there are adorable dogs on the property that made my stay even more heartwarming! If you’re looking for a peaceful, authentic, and welcoming place to stay in Kyoto, I can’t recommend this spot highly enough. I’m already looking forward to my next visit.

Everything about this ryokan was amazing! The hosts were very friendly and welcoming-- as were their dogs! They greeted us with tea and treats! The snacks/breakfasts were perfect and much appreciated. The beds were comfortable. The evening with the Meiko was wonderful surprise!! We brought home many happy memories from that night-- and a game which we have taught our family-- and will continue to play! The location was perfect-- walking distance to sites, shopping, restaurants, etc. The massage chair was wonderful to sit in at the end of a long day. We will recommend this stay to any family and friends who visit Kyoto-- and hopefully we will be back someday!