Ryokan Uemura

Very pleasant host, recommended

Very nice hospitality from owner of the house Mr Uemura, classic japanese ryokan experience with more than 100 years building history. Perfect location in Gion

It was a cold at night in february, but owner bring very warm electric blanket and solved my problem

The location, the beautiful old building

Some things not well-maintained

A proper authentic ryokan experience right in the heart of Gion, a short walk from Yasaka shrine and Kiyomizu-dera. Not just the rooms, but the entire building - it really feels like you're staying in a traditional ryokan, with some modern amenities of course. I believe the building itself along with other buildings in the area are officially designated as cultural properties. The owner was very nice and welcoming, even showing up to give me flu medication when he overheard me coughing one evening.

Naturally, whilst the oldness of the building definitely has its charm, this also comes with some issues. The building is very creaky and you'll need to bring your luggage up steep stairs. The toilet rooms are quite small and cramped. The shower area was also quite cold (I went in winter). The location also is quite far from a train station, so with buses not allowing large suitcases this makes quite a trek from Kyoto station.

The staff member who assisted me was very kind and accommodation, and even chatted with me a bit in Japanese, even though my skills are intermediate at best. He also drew a bath for me on my first night, which was an incredibly kind gesture.

I actually stayed here in 2019, when the property was apparently under different ownership. Back then, it offered meal service and felt much more like a hotel. Now, it more or less feels like you are staying in someone's house, which you may love or hate.

great location, super cute house