It is the way to experience "real" Japan. In other perts of the world it would be called a Boutique Hotel or a five star BB (Bed and breakfast). For Occidentals eating the traditional dinner might be difficult, as the quantity is huge, the taste too exotic for our palates, and the price high. A western breakfast can (should) be... More

We were recommended to stay here and what an experience. Traditional Japanese as soon as you walk in with exceptional service - maybe over the top in some cases but over all an incredible experience. We were dropped off here and as soon as you enter you are greeted by all the employees, shoes off and into the hotel. Our... More

First off, this was an amazing experience. I wavered between giving 4 or 5 stars and ended up giving 4, simply because: We had never been to a ryokan before and decided to go with what was deemed the "best" in Kyoto. I'm guessing that there are others that, while not on par in terms of the food/service, are better... More

From the moment you enter the Tawaraya Ryokan you are immediately transported into a traditional Japanese oasis. We were greeted by the ever polite and humble staff with warm down slippers and served tea in the waiting room whilst our rooms were made ready. Our luggage was whisked upstairs by a tiny older japanese man before we could assist him.... More

We were invited by our good Japanese friends to share their favourite Ryokan in Kyoto. This was saved for our last night in the city and was certainly a cultural experience. To be clear, this is a very elitist experience! You are greeted and waited on hand and foot. We had a large suite with a private garden to look... More

Tawaraya is one of those special places that you encounter so rarely that it makes you go home and tell everyone about what you just experienced. It's the kind of place that transports you to a different time and place and allows you to experience a life very few have. Tawaraya is a perfection in Japanese hospitality and minimalist Japanese... More

Staying at Tawaraya is a unique and highly valued expereince, providing one with the delights of enjoying pure Japanese culture in luxury. The owners have tastefully inegrated modern necessities, like toilets, to indulge the traveler in comfort and ease. The attentiveness of the staff is something that cannot be bought. Although Tawaraya is very expensive, the genuine smiles and the... More

I had previously stayed at a modern Ryokan, so was looking forward to visiting this old one... But actually preferred the new Ryokan for comfort and space. Food was good and excessive, service very sweet but with limited English.

Stayed in a 1st floor room. Important because they have private gardens. Room was spacious with a delightful soaking tub that looked out onto the garden. Staff was attentive. Meals appeared precisely on time. Enjoyed a kaiseki dinner, Japanese and western breakfasts in the room. We enjoyed a delightful tempura dinner at a separate restaurant owned by the Inn and... More