Ryokans are so much more than hotels, a difference that is important to understand. The service level is much more intensive and should be fully absorbed, along with all the traditions that they reflect. The Sumiya is like a summit experience. It is very old, but perfectly modern. The ladies and gents serving are a marvel of kindness, grace and... More

This is a charming, family-run boutique hotel, located in a quiet street, just steps away from the city center. A young boy collected our shoes at the entrance & gave us all slippers to wear. When we got to our room, the bath made of gorgeous Hinoki cedarwood was filled & ready. Sheer bliss after the long drive from Osaka!... More

Stayed here for one night, just for the experience. The rooms were comfortable and cosy, the views from each window, whether in the corridors or rooms were well thought out and pleasing . This is run by a family . The breakfast was satisfying . Recommend this Ryokan

Stayed here 2 nights on a business trip. My company booked this place and frankly I was a little concerned after reading some of the reviews. Our experience was great! Great food, great service, comfortable rooms and an authentic Japanese environment. Choose a western hotel chain if you are looking for a more American experience. If you want to get... More

It was our first trip to Japan, before Spring time of 2013. After fasinating Tokyo, little small town of Takayama in the countryside, we came to Kyoto where we find the Japanese culture is so rich and 'traditional' than other places. Our one night stay at Sumiya ryokan complimented to our appreciation of the beautiful Japanese culture and hospitality. As... More

This was an awesome experience. I think I learned more about Ryokan stay here because they spoke English (I have been to ones where I had to make do with my very poor Japanese). It was our last day in Kyoto an had to check out our other place by 10am. We called to see if they could take our... More

We just had a most wonderful 2-night stay at Sumiya. I see that some people were less than happy with the place and I can understand that as well. I must admit when we first entered into Sumiya and also when we were introduced to our room, I also wondered whether I had made the right choice. A ryokan, especially... More

the real thing! In this Ryokan many Japanese celebs are frequently seen. Great Hinoki wood bathtubs and spacious rooms facing a Japanese garden.

My family and I spent 2 nights at Sumiya Ryokan by a kind referral from our Tokyo hotel guest service. The 20 rooms ryokan is centrally located inthe heart of Kyoto down town and that is simply the only good thing about this small inn. We paid about 45k yen per person including breakfast and dinner for a room with... More