NISHIYAMA RYOKAN - Established in 1953

Nishiyama Ryokan was exceptional place to stay during my visit to Kyoto and definitely worth checking out! I really appreciated all of their wonderful service and hospitality during my stay. They offered a matcha tea ceremony class and koto performance free of charge, as well as complimentary drinks and bag storage, even after checking out on our last day (since we continued to tour the city and check out different attractions before moving to the next destination). The staff were wonderful and very friendly at every opportunity. I particularly loved the Japanese style breakfast and encourage guests to get this with their stay. Different Kyoto inspired ingredients were used to create the menu each morning. Also, this ryokan is in a great location that was a short walk or taxi/train ride to many of the great attractions in Kyoto such as Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, Kinkaku-Ji, Niko-Jo Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace, and even just a 15 minute walk from the Nishiki Market (a must see spot for food and shopping in the area). I would highly recommend booking a stay here when planning a trip to Kyoto.

Wonderful ryokan in a brilliant location in Kyoto. I was lucky to stay with Nishiyama Ryokan. The rooms are immaculately clean with traditional futon on tatami. The staff are so friendly and welcoming. I enjoyed a lovely Japanese breakfast and my favourite experience was the tea ceremony in which I was also taught how to provide a tea ceremony for others. My stay was five stars from beginning to end and I hope I can visit again soon.

Words alone aren’t enough to describe the experience that we had at Nishiyama Ryokan. It must be lived in person. I feel so fortunate to have chosen this ryokan to stay while in Kyoto. We were made to feel like an honored guest and I felt as if we had a true Japanese cultural tradition. The dwelling was beautiful and very peaceful inside. The decor is pretty and you can see a lovely view of a pond and garden with fall views this time of year while you are served your tea in the tearoom. Our room was traditionally Japanese with chabudai table and chairs and shikibuton style beds covered with beautiful kakebutons. I slept like a baby. It was so comfortable and the room was very quiet and peaceful. We were each provided a yukata and a hanten to wear while we were inside the room and in the ryokan, if we wished. The bathroom was large and clean with an Asian style toilet with all of their exquisite features! While you are here, you must partake of the breakfast! It is a wonderful experience that I will have a difficult time describing because it is like a work of art. There is attention to detail in every aspect of their breakfast. They use the most beautiful china and I really enjoyed seeing it every morning. Some of it had to be opened up and inside were tiny delicious delicacies that had been given much attention. Other parts of the meal were steamed at the table in wooden steam boxes while you began your meal. They served you tea and coffee. The service was very attentive and kind. There was always someone serving you throughout the meal. I have never had such an amazing experience as this one and I think it was one of the best parts of my trip to Japan. In conclusion, I loved my stay here and I will stay here again if I return to Kyoto! The people are so kind and helpful. They go above and beyond to make certain that you are taken care of and answered all of our questions. There are some places and people that you will always remember and these people and this place is one of them. Thank you for your kindness. I will never forget.