Genhouin is one of the most beautiful ryokan in Kyoto. It’s a classic Japanese structure surrounded by superb gardens. Best of all, it’s in a quiet neighborhood not far from the sights.
Genhouin exterior with garden
Ryokan Genhouin At A Glance
- Great for: couples, families with older children
- Strong points: architecture, gardens, quiet neighborhood
- Sample rates: from US$500 to $1000 per night
Genhouin family room garden view
Genhouin is a charming and largely unknown ryokan in a quiet residential neighborhood in the northern Higashiyama district, a short walk from the Path of Philosophy, Ginkaku-ji and the magical walking paths of Yoshida-yama.
Genhouin main common room
The ryokan is a bit of an oddity: It’s firmly in the luxury price bracket, but some of the rooms have shared bathrooms (it’s a small place so this isn’t really a problem). But some rooms have private hot tubs with garden views. A fine Japanese breakfast is served but not dinner.
Overall, for travelers who want to stay in an absolutely gorgeous property in a quiet area, this ryokan is hard to beat. Just note that children below the age of 13 are not permitted.
Name in English:
Genhouin
Name in Japanese:
山科伯爵邸 源鳳院
English address:
77 Okazaki-hosshoji-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan 606-8333
Japanese address:
〒606-8333 京都市左京区岡崎法勝寺町77
Price range: luxury
Nearest Transport:
4 minutes’ walk from Okazaki Hosshojicho Bus Stop, Kyoto City Bus 5 from Kyoto Station
Telephone: 81-75-752-1110
Website: genhouin.com (Japanese)
:: Check availability and pricing for Ryokan Genhouin on Booking.com or Agoda.com.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
