Sumiya Ryokan Kyoto

William Odom

a month ago

Expensive, but worth it for the experience if you can afford it. I've been struggling with how to describe this Ryokan. It's a hotel, but it's also someone's home that happens to have 10+ bedrooms in it. I was thrown by the location on Google maps, as it looks like it's simply in the middle of a normal block with nothing exciting around it, but it's actually in an excellent location - short walking distance from restaurants, shopping, and the subway. The owner and her staff were incredibly gracious and accommodating. This has been in her family for over 100 years, and they do the utmost to make sure you're happy and comfortable the entire time you're with them. Breakfast and dinner were served in my room and all were Japanese and excellent (they also had Western versions, but why eat that when you're in Japan?!). The owner came and sat with me for 30 minutes during my first dinner and an hour the next night. She was not imposing on me, but rather I was alone, spoke English which she wanted to practice, and we were both interested in each other's life stories. It was an amazing opportunity to learn much more about Japanese culture. Both nights I brought in a larger bottle of good sake and we took turns serving each other while talking about many different topics. As a Westerner I'm a bit uncomfortable with the level of service they wish to provide, but the owner and her staff put me at ease and helped make Kyoto my favorite city in Japan. If I get back to Kyoto some day, I would definitely stay here again and look forward to great dinners over good food talking about Japan while sipping sake. Oh - and take advantage of the Japanese bath tub! Shower first, then soak in the tub, then shower again (Japan does not have a water shortage :-)

Yiz Lngia

7 months ago

Had excellent stay!!! I am amazed by the hospitality from the staff. Highly recommended for experiencing Japanese traditional culture and excellent Japanese traditional style dinner & breakfast, better to stay at least 2 nights.

Nicholas Fasullo

7 months ago

Fantastic lunch and onsen experience. Great for a day trip or to stay. In a quiet and serene area of Kyoto, away from all the hustle and bustle. Will definitely be returning here.

Mick T

a year ago

Hospitality is of the best. From the entrance you are treated with an authentic experience. The amenities are pristine and show a level of excellence not a lot of others have. The location is next to some of the best shopping arcades Kyoto has to offer. The staff are deffinately amazing and showed an interest in getting to know the kids as well. The whole country has show hospitality that is second to none. Sumiya Ryokan Kyoto is rich with it's Japanese culture and a must stay if you truly wish to experience Japanese heritage. For the experience please request the traditional Japanese dinner that will be served in your own private wing and consists of several courses, in fact a lot more than several, you will not be disappointed. If you or your children are not game to try the Japanese food they will cater what they call an American style to suit your taste buds Family highly recommends this as the best Ryokan.

Alice Danwiboon

10 months ago

Best onsen experience ever, my room has private onsen and it was super refreshing! Cannot compliment more!! Staff are super nice (100/100!!!) Room is super clean and tidy plus so many good quality toiletries you can try out (and if like can be purchase in full size at the lobby) My experience there is indeed a peaceful-luxurious-calming-soothing ! Sometime it is better to escape busy city. Note that it is pretty far from kyoto station plan your trip ahead! (At one point you MUST USE TAXI)