Nishiyama Ryokan is located in a quiet, central part of Kyoto. It’s peaceful but incredibly convenient for exploring the city’s top attractions. The building exudes traditional charm, but inside you’ll find a thoughtful blend of old-world design and modern comfort.

Rooms come in various styles, from fully traditional setups with tatami mats, shoji (paper sliding doors), and futons to more modern ones with Western-style beds. It’s ideal for guests who want the experience of a ryokan without giving up familiar comforts. This versatility makes it a great choice for different types of travelers.

The Room

I stayed in a newly renovated room that can fit up to six guests, perfect for families or groups. It was spacious, had strong traditional elements, and included all the modern conveniences you could need. There was also a touch of Kyoto elegance in the décor, which made the stay feel special.

Standout touches included a tea set and cute Japanese chocolates waiting for us in the room. These small details made us feel welcomed and cared for right away.

Breakfast

One of my favorite parts of the stay was the Japanese-style breakfast. You’ll need to book it at least a day in advance, but it’s worth it. The meal includes:

  • Seasonal Kyoto vegetables
  • Boiled tofu
  • Grilled fish
  • Japanese omelet
  • Miso soup
  • Steamed rice

It’s a beautifully presented and well-balanced breakfast that gives you a taste of Kyoto’s delicate flavors. A wonderful way to start the day.

Amenities

Nishiyama Ryokan also offers a tattoo-friendly public bath, which is a rare and welcome feature in Japan. After a long day of exploring Kyoto, soaking in the bath was the perfect way to relax.

There’s also a small Japanese garden on the property. I recommend taking a quiet walk there in the morning—it’s incredibly peaceful.

Free Cultural Activities

One of the things that sets Nishiyama Ryokan apart is its complimentary cultural experiences offered to guests. These activities vary depending on the day, but during my stay, I had the chance to join a traditional tea ceremony led by a tea master.

These experiences are a beautiful way to connect with Japanese culture without even leaving the ryokan. Whether it’s calligraphy, tea ceremony, or other cultural workshops, they add a meaningful layer to your stay.

More Details:

Location: Central Kyoto, close to major attractions
 Rates: ¥20,000 per night during low season, around ¥30,000 during peak season
 Best For: Couples, solo travelers, and families
 Official Website: https://www.ryokan-kyoto.com/ 

Nishiyama Ryokan is more than just a place to sleep. It’s an experience that gives you a real taste of Kyoto, from the food to the design to the warm, thoughtful hospitality. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a peaceful, authentic stay in the city.

Watch my reel about Nishiyama Ryokan here: