Located right in the heart of Gion, just steps from Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto Ryokan Gion Sano is perfect for sightseeing in the city.

Kyoto Ryokan Gion Sano – image © Booking.com
Rooms at Kyoto Ryokan Gion Sano are ensuite. They’re reasonably clean and comfortable, especially if you’re looking for a Japanese-style sleeping experience on futons. More importantly, rooms are on the spacious side, meaning you can actually have more than two suitcases open at the same time.
All rooms are outfitted with air-conditioning, and the amenities provided are adequate. We like the tea set, free bottled water, sweets, and the yukata nightgown! We also love that they provide complimentary fruit and coffee on arrival. There’s free and decent WiFi here.

Kyoto Ryokan Gion Sano – image © Booking.com
One thing to note, however, is that there’s an 11pm curfew. Kyoto’s nightlife isn’t exactly hopping, but if you want to stay out late, just inform the staff.
Note that non-smoking rooms are technically not available – all rooms are dual-use. Rooms are ventilated and deodorised before each guest’s arrival, however, and unless you’re very sensitive to smoke, you probably won’t notice it. Just let them know in advance to be sure.

Kyoto Ryokan Gion Sano – image © Booking.com
Location-wise, this inn is excellent. It’s 3 minutes on foot to both Yasaka Shrine and Maruyama Park, and other temples like Kodai-ji Temple and Kennin-ji Temple are just a little further beyond. Nightly rates for this inn might seem a tad high at first, but you’re paying for the location. Prices here are very good for this part of Higashiyama.
Something else to note here is that meals aren’t provided. They might call themselves a ‘ryokan’ but don’t let that name give you the wrong impression – it just means they’re a Japanese-style hotel. No breakfasts to be had here, we’re afraid! But if you’re peckish, there are cup noodles and pastries on request.
If you’re lucky, you might just be able to catch a maiko performance during your stay there. The inn hosts irregular performances on some evenings, and guests find it a real treat to see maiko up close without having to hang around Hanamikoji Street in the evening. You might even get to take a photo or two with her too!
Name in English:
Kyoto Ryokan Gion Sano
Name in Japanese:
京都 旅館 祇園佐の
English address:
504 Washio-cho, Gion-shimogawara, Higashiyama-ku
Japanese address:
東山区祇園下河原鷲尾町504
Price:
Internet: wifi access
Non-smoking rooms: No
Nearest Transport:
5min walk from Gion Bus Stop, Kyoto City Bus 100, 206 from Kyoto Station
Telephone: 561-0206
Website:
:: Check availability on Booking.com or Agoda.com
Website: Official website (Japanese)
Near To Here:
Kyoto Ryokan Gion Sano is in Kyoto’s Southern Higashiyama district. See our complete list of things to do in Southern Higashiyama, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.

Where Is This Place Located?
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More Kyoto Hotels info:
- Kyoto Hotels Overview
- Check availability and pricing for Kyoto hotels at Booking.com and Agoda.com
- The Best Places To Stay In Kyoto
- Where To Stay In Kyoto
- Best New Kyoto Hotels
- The Most Romantic Hotels and Ryokan in Kyoto
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- Best Mid-Range Hotels in Kyoto
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- Best Kyoto Hostels and Guesthouses
- Best Kyoto Hotels For Families
- Best Japanese Hotel Chains
- Best Ryokan In Kyoto
- Kyoto Machiya
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